Conrad thought Annika was asleep. But when his hand gently touched her rounded belly, her whole body flinched. He realized then that she had been awake the whole time, only pretending to be asleep because she didn't want to see him.
A bitter taste filled Conrad's mouth. He hesitated, the question 'Why didn't you answer my calls?' on the tip of his tongue, but he swallowed it back. Her rejection was so obvious that asking would only be a form of self-humiliation.
He withdrew his hand, his eyes darkening. He bent down to pull the blanket up for her, then turned and slid open the glass door to the balcony. As the door closed behind him, his tall silhouette was framed against the glass. He lit a cigarette, the white smoke immediately blurring his handsome features.
He lost count of how many cigarettes he smoked. His lips grew numb, his mouth filled with the taste of nicotine. Finally, he crushed the last one out and re-entered the bedroom. His gaze fell on the bed. The book had slipped from Annika's face, revealing her familiar, rosy complexion. She looked beautiful and radiant, and he could even hear her soft, even breathing.
After watching her for a while, he went into the bathroom to shower. When he came out, dressed in pajamas, he lay down beside her, turned off the light, and gently wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her loosely into his embrace. He rested his chin on the top of her head. Holding her, his restless heart finally found its anchor. With a soft sigh, he drifted off to sleep.
...
The next morning, Conrad opened his eyes to find the space beside him empty, though the warmth in the sheets and the faint floral scent of her skin still lingered.
A sudden thought made him bolt upright. He strode to the walk-in closet, and a wave of relief washed over him when he saw her clothes still hanging there.
After getting ready, he went downstairs, fastening his cufflinks. As he scanned the room, his eyes landed on the silent figure eating at the dining table, and a small smile touched his lips as he walked straight into the dining room.
When Lana saw Conrad, she quickly ladled a bowl of broth for him. Placing it in front of him, she whispered, "Enjoy your breakfast."
Conrad felt a surge of warmth. He picked up a piece of toast, spread some jam on it, and was about to hand it to Annika when she suddenly stood up. "I'm done," she said.


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