Chapter 71 Chapter 71
The evening breeze moved softly through the open curtains, carrying the sweet smell of flowers from the garden. Savannah sat quietly on the couch, one hand resting on her big belly. Her eyes followed the slow movement of the trees outside, but her mind was far away.
She was now nine months gone. The doctor had said it could happen anytime, yet she didn’t feel fully ready. She had grown used to the peace and comfort in Adrian’s mansion — the maids’ smiles, the soft music that played in the background, and Adrian’s gentle care that made her feel loved every day.
But tonight, something felt different. Her back hurt a little, and there was a strange tightness in her stomach. She took a deep breath and rubbed her belly. “Hey, little one,” she whispered, “you’re moving too much today. Are you trying to come out already?”
She laughed softly to herself, but when she stood up to get some water, she felt another sharp pull inside her lower belly. It wasn’t too painful, but it made her stop for a second.
Just then, Adrian came in, holding a small tray with her favorite fruit and a glass of milk. His eyes went straight to her. “Savannah, what are you doing standing up? You should be resting.”
She smiled a little. “I’m fine. Just wanted to stretch my legs.”
He placed the tray on the table and walked closer. “You don’t look fine to me. Sit down, please.”
Savannah obeyed quietly. He sat beside her, his eyes full of concern. “Is the baby moving too much again?”
She nodded. “Yes… and my back hurts a bit. Maybe it’s because I sat for too long.”
Adrian frowned slightly. “It could be a sign that the baby is coming soon.”
Her eyes widened. “Already? But… I don’t think I’m ready yet.”
He smiled warmly and held her hand. “Hey, don’t panic. It’s normal to feel this way. I’ll call the doctor, just to be sure, alright?”
Before she could say no, he was already dialing. A few minutes later, the doctor’s calm voice came through the phone. Adrian explained what Savannah felt, and after a short pause, the doctor replied, “It sounds like early labor signs, but don’t worry. Let her rest and drink plenty of water. If the pain increases or the contractions get closer, call me immediately. I’ll be on standby.”
“Thank you, doctor,” Adrian said, before ending the call.
Savannah watched him the whole time. The way he spoke, the care in his voice — it all made her heart warm. She couldn’t remember the last time someone cared this much. Nathaniel never did.
When Adrian turned back to her, he smiled softly. “See? Everything is fine. You’re safe here, Savannah. I’m not leaving your side.”
She looked at him for a while and said quietly, “You’ve done so much for me, Adrian. I don’t know how to thank you.”
“You don’t have to thank me,” he replied, brushing her hair gently. “You’ve brought light into this house. I should be the one thanking you.”
Her lips curved in a small smile, but another light wave of pain made her gasp softly. Adrian noticed immediately. “Is it strong?”
She shook her head. “No, it’s okay. It just feels… strange. Like my body is preparing.”
He nodded and pulled her closer carefully. “Then let it prepare. I’ll stay right here.”
She leaned her head on his shoulder, listening to the steady beat of his heart. It calmed her. They sat like that for a while, the room quiet except for the sound of the wall clock ticking.
After a few minutes, a maid came in with a soft blanket. “Sir, do you want me to prepare some tea for her?”
Adrian nodded. “Yes, something warm and light.”
The maid bowed and left quietly.
Savannah smiled. “You’ve turned everyone in this house into my personal caretaker.”
He chuckled. “You’re the most important person here right now. They all know that.”
She looked at him again, noticing how happy he seemed just being near her. He was different from any man she had ever known — gentle, calm, protective. She didn’t even realize when her heart had started to fall for him completely.
“Adrian,” she said softly, “are you not tired of taking care of me?”
He turned to her quickly, shaking his head. “Never. Taking care of you makes me happy.”
She blushed a little and looked away. “You talk too sweet.”
“I mean every word,” he said with a smile. “You’ve changed me, Savannah. I used to think love was a waste of time… until you came.”
Her chest tightened. She wanted to say something, but her throat felt dry. So she just smiled weakly, pretending she didn’t hear.
A few minutes later, the maid returned with the tea. Adrian made sure Savannah drank it before helping her to bed. He covered her with the soft blanket and sat by her side, watching her closely.
“You don’t have to stay here all night,” she said. “I’ll be fine.”
“I’m staying,” he replied softly. “Even if you sleep, I’ll be here.”
Her eyes grew heavy as she drifted off to sleep, feeling safe. Every now and then, she felt the baby move, and she smiled faintly, whispering, “Just a little longer, okay? We’ll see your daddy soon.”
Adrian heard her words and smiled, his heart swelling with emotions. He reached out and placed his hand gently on her belly. The baby kicked again, as if responding.
He whispered, “Don’t worry, little one. Daddy’s here. You both are my world now.”
The night passed slowly. Adrian didn’t close his eyes once. He sat there, watching her sleep peacefully, the moonlight touching her face. He felt lucky — truly lucky.
By morning, Savannah opened her eyes and saw him still sitting there. “You didn’t sleep?”
He smiled. “No. I wanted to make sure my queen was safe.”
She rolled her eyes playfully. “You’re crazy.”
“Crazy in love,” he replied, laughing softly.
She laughed too, and for a moment, all the fear disappeared. It felt like a small family already — just the two of them waiting for the day their baby would arrive.