Chapter 99
Carmen sat in Marco’s study, her legs tucked neatly under her as she pored over the thick folder of business plans in front of her. The sun streamed through the tall windows, casting a warm glow over the room. Marco sat across from her, reviewing financial reports, his pen tapping lightly against the desk.
Her focus was steady until a strange queasiness hit her out of nowhere. It wasn’t sharp or overwhelming, but it was enough to make her stop mid-sentence. She placed a hand on her stomach, waiting for it to pass.
“Are you alright?” Marco’s voice broke through her thoughts. He hadn’t looked up, but his sharp instincts had noticed her shift.
“I’m fine,” Carmen said quickly, though her voice wavered slightly. She tried to push the feeling aside and focus again, but the queasiness intensified. Her stomach churned, and a sudden wave of nausea had her bolting from her chair.
“Carmen?” Marco was on his feet instantly, his reports forgotten as he followed her out of the room.
She barely made it to the powder room, shutting the door behind her. Leaning over the sink, she took slow, deep breaths, trying to calm her unsettled stomach. The nausea ebbed slightly but left her feeling drained.
Marco’s knock came moments later, gentle but insistent. “Carmen, open the door.”
“I’m okay,” she called back, splashing cool water on her face.
“Open the door,” he repeated, his tone firmer now.
With a sigh, she unlocked the door, meeting his concerned gaze. He stepped inside without hesitation, his hands immediately framing her face.
“You don’t look okay,” Marco said, his dark eyes scanning her face.
“It’s nothing,” Carmen insisted, though her voice was soft. “Just a little nausea. Probably something I ate.”
Marco frowned, his worry evident. “You’ve been tired for weeks, and now this? I’m calling the doctor.”
“Marco—”
“No arguments,” he interrupted, his tone brooking no refusal. “Please, Carmen. I need to know you’re alright.”
She relented, her hand brushing his arm. “Fine. Call the doctor. But I promise you, it’s nothing serious.”
________________
The doctor arrived within the hour, his leather bag in hand and a calm demeanor that helped settle Carmen’s nerves. Marco hovered nearby as the doctor performed a thorough examination, his jaw tight with worry.
When the doctor finished, he smiled at them both. “Congratulations, Mrs. Venetti,” he said warmly. “You’re pregnant.”
Carmen froze, her mind racing to catch up with his words. “Pregnant?” she echoed, her hand instinctively moving to her stomach.
Marco’s reaction was immediate. His face broke into a wide grin, his tension melting away as he turned to her. “Pregnant,” he repeated, his voice filled with awe.
Carmen blinked, and then a slow smile spread across her face. “We’re having another baby,” she whispered, more to herself than anyone else.
Marco pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly as if he never wanted to let go. “Carmen, this is incredible. Another baby. Another chance to grow our family.”
She laughed softly against his chest, her emotions bubbling over. “I didn’t expect this, but… I’m happy, Marco. Really happy.”
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