Julian stood in the center of the grand foyer, the medical bill trembling in his hand. The words *Prenatal Specialist* and *High-Risk* echoed in his skull, deafening him to Marcus’s voice as the lawyer hurriedly packed his briefcase and excused himself, sensing the impending explosion.

*She is preg

The silence in the back of the Maybach was deafening, broken only by the rhythmic drumming of Julian Thorne’s fingers against the leather armrest. He hadn’t slept in three days. His eyes burned, his perfectly tailored suit felt like a straightjacket, and the taste of ash sat heavy on his tongue.

"

"You're pregnant," Julian whispered, the words barely making it past his lips. His eyes remained fixed on her stomach, his entire body paralyzed by the revelation.

"I am," Clara replied coolly, releasing the intercom button. She crossed her arms over her chest, resting them just above the swell of