Elissa settled against the pillows, watching Laney fold her belongings with practiced efficiency. “When do we depart?” she asked.

“There’s no hurry.” Laney’s smile remained gentle. “Mr. Flynn mentioned he would pick you up personally.”

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At those words, Elissa’s eyes dropped, her features becoming a mask of indifference.

She found herself trapped in anticipation, understanding that escape remained impossible.

Evening arrived with her still waiting.

Finally, sounds beyond the door announced Ernest’s arrival.

The door swung open to reveal Ernest stepping inside, his fingers intertwined with Locke’s small hand.

“Go ahead.” Ernest freed Locke’s hand with a gentle push. “Remember our conversation.”

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“Okay!” Locke bobbed his head enthusiastically before racing toward Elissa with outstretched arms. “Mommy, Mommy!”

“Locke.” Elissa’s composure cracked, revealing the tenderness beneath.

She attempted to rise, but Ernest’s firm gesture halted her movement. “Stay still! Have you forgotten the doctor’s orders? Discharge doesn’t mean you can ignore precautions.”

Elissa dismissed his concern, extending her arms toward Locke. “Come here, sweetheart. Let me hold you!”

Locke’s uncertain gaze sought Ernest’s guidance. Ernest crouched down, lifted the boy effortlessly, and settled him onto the mattress beside Elissa.

“Mommy!” Locke wrapped his arms around Elissa’s neck with pure joy. “I missed you terribly!”

“Sweetheart, I missed you beyond measure.” Elissa’s eyes glistened with unshed tears as she longed to draw Locke nearer.

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“Mommy, you can’t…” Locke unexpectedly withdrew slightly, his expression turning protective. “This is perfect! Getting too close might harm my baby sibling!”

Those words struck Elissa like lightning, her body stiffening as her furious gaze found Ernest.

Disbelief coursed through her—he had revealed her pregnancy to Locke. Ernest’s lips curved into a subtle smile as his palm rested gently on Locke’s rounded head.

The boy’s hair mirrored his mother’s—lustrous, dense, and silken to the touch. His neat bowl cut enhanced his endearing appearance.

“Locke, you’re thrilled about Mommy’s new baby, aren’t you?” Ernest’s voice carried gentle warmth.

His words answered the accusation burning in Elissa’s stare.

“Yes!” Innocent Locke remained blissfully unaware of the tension crackling between the adults, his happiness completely genuine.

“I’m going to be a big brother! So exciting, so wonderful!” Locke lifted his small hand, seeking Elissa’s approval with hopeful eyes. “Mommy, may I greet my little brother or sister?”

Emotion burned behind Elissa’s nose, but she swallowed the tears threatening to spill, managing a nod. “Of course, darling.”

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