Chapter 12 - Bed Rest
The hospital visit revealed it was a severe case of Braxton Hicks contractions brought on by dehydration and residual stress, not early labor. The relief that washed over Daniel was palpable. He had leaned his forehead against the hospital wall and exhaled a breath that seemed to hold years of tension.
When he brought her back to the Sterling estate, the dynamic between them had fundamentally shifted. The doctor had ordered strict bed rest for the remainder of the pregnancy.
Refusing to leave her isolated, Daniel had a heavy oak desk moved into the corner of Elara's grand suite. He began running his vast, shadowy empire from her bedroom, his deep voice a constant, reassuring rumble as he negotiated deals on the phone. Elara would watch him work, a small smile on her face. The terrifying mafia boss had become her fierce, dedicated guardian, and in the quiet moments between his calls, as they shared tea and quiet conversation, a profound and undeniable bond took root in the marble halls.
