Too Late for Sorry, Mr. Billionaire (Chasing my Wife Back) novel Chapter 17

**TITLE: Hands Trembled Before Goodbye — Ryan Ellis 17**

The delicate light of dawn began to seep through the curtains, casting gentle shades of gray and gold across the room, creating a serene atmosphere. Amelia found herself kneeling beside the bed, her hands tightly clasped together as she whispered her thoughts into the stillness, her lips moving in a silent prayer. Behind her, the rhythmic rise and fall of Adrian’s chest assured her that he was still deeply ensconced in the realm of dreams.

With a soft exhale, she uttered her final “Amen,” her eyes fluttering open just as a sudden vibration shattered the tranquility. Adrian’s phone illuminated the nightstand with a bright glow, the screen displaying an unfamiliar name that piqued her curiosity.

The Automobile Guy.

“Baby,” she called softly, her voice barely above a whisper as she reached out to gently tap his arm, hoping to rouse him from his slumber.

He remained still, lost in sleep.

With a firmer touch, she tapped again, a bit more insistent this time. Suddenly, he jolted awake, eyes blinking rapidly as he tried to shake off the remnants of his dream.

“Hey, babe,” she said, her finger pointing at the glowing screen, “The Automobile Guy is calling.”

He reached for the phone, still groggy, squinting at the light as he rubbed the sleep from his eyes.

“Why is he calling at this hour?” Amelia questioned, a hint of intrigue coloring her voice.

Adrian let out a heavy sigh, his voice still thick with sleep. “I told him yesterday to come check out the company cars.”

Her eyebrows arched in surprise. “Oh? You took it upon yourself to tell him? That wasn’t your responsibility the last time I checked.”

“I had to handle it this time,” he replied, a hint of defensiveness creeping into his tone. “It’s not a big deal… or is it?”

A gentle smile graced her lips as she reassured him, “No, not at all.”

Yet, she noticed his frown deepening, irritation creeping into his voice. “Still, what’s wrong with this guy? Calling at dawn for something scheduled for midday. It’s always something ridiculous.”

Amelia instinctively reached for his hand, her thumb gliding over his skin in a soothing gesture. “It’s alright, babe. Don’t let this get you worked up. It’s too early for anger.”

He met her gaze, his tension easing just a little. A small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he took a deep breath. “You’re right. I won’t let it bother me.”

“Hope you slept well?” she asked softly, her eyes sparkling with warmth.

His smile widened. “I did, and you?”

She nodded, her heart swelling with affection. “So did I. What would you like for breakfast? Should I whip up something special, or stick to our usual timetable?” She stood, stretching slightly as she prepared to head to the kitchen.

“Timetable, please. Hazel loves it when you stick to it,” he replied, his voice still drowsy but more alert now.

“Alright then,” she said, her heart fluttering at the thought of making Hazel’s favorite breakfast. He lifted her hand to his lips, placing a tender kiss on the back of her palm.

“I’ll get that done, then I’ll help her get ready for school,” she promised, her voice light.

“Cut that crap, Vivian,” he interrupted, his patience wearing thin. “What’s the issue?”

There was a pause, followed by a long sigh that echoed through the line. “Haven’t I?”

“Okay, fine. You caught me. I woke up feeling nauseous, and… I wanted to fill you in on it, that’s all.”

Silence stretched between them for a moment, Adrian’s jaw tightening as he processed her words. Finally, he spoke, his voice steady. “Alright. I’ll send you some money. Go to a hospital and get a proper check-up so we know what we’re dealing with.”

“Okay.” Her voice softened, a note of hesitation creeping in. “But… can you come with me to the hospital? Please?”

“I’m not promising,” he replied, his tone more guarded now, a shield rising between them. “Let me see how today goes first.”

“That’s good enough,” she whispered, relief lacing her voice as a weight seemed to lift.

For a fleeting moment, the tension dissipated, and their conversation softened into that familiar rhythm they both craved, a bittersweet connection amidst the chaos.

“I love you, Adrian,” she said, her voice imbued with sincerity.

His lips curled faintly, betraying the frustration that still lingered in his heart. “I love you too, Vivian. Always.”

As he ended the call, he tossed the phone onto the passenger seat, exhaling heavily as he turned the ignition. The engine purred to life, a comforting sound amidst the uncertainty. With one last glance at the quiet house, Adrian pulled out of the driveway, driving off into the awakening city, the weight of the day ahead pressing down on him like a heavy fog.