Chapter 455

Steam swirled in the bathroom. Pregnancy-safe toiletries were neatly arranged on the shelf.

Alexander finished listing precautions, his gaze lingering on Sophia. "You go first. I'll wait outside."

Sophia chuckled. "I'm not a child who'll slip in the shower."

"Better safe than sorry." His brow furrowed. "Should I ask Aunt Sunny to assist you?"

"No!" She waved dismissively. "It's too late for that."

The shower started running as she stepped inside.

Alexander sat on the couch outside, an unread financial magazine in his hands. The sound of water pattering against tiles clawed at his patience like a kitten's persistent scratching.

When the door creaked open, his head snapped up.

The white silk nightgown clung to Sophia's curves. Water droplets slid down her damp hair. A rosy flush colored her cheeks, her collarbones peeking through the delicate fabric.

Her bare feet sank into the plush carpet, toes curling adorably.

Alexander's throat moved visibly. His stare became fixed.

Sophia had deliberately taken her time, assuming he'd left. Finding those dark eyes still trained on her, she froze.

"You're... still here?" Her voice tightened.

He abruptly looked away, voice gruff. "In case you needed anything."

Kneeling, he slid slippers onto her feet. "The floor's cold."

Sophia watched the top of his head, heart fluttering. No one had ever tended to her with such care.

"Thank you."

"Don't mention it." Rising, his ears turned pink. "I'm next door if you need me."

He retreated hastily, his departure almost comically abrupt.