The Christmas lights twinkled softly in Serena’s living room, casting a warm glow over the space. Snow was falling gently outside, covering the city in a soft white blanket.

The smell of cinnamon and vanilla filled the air, courtesy of the cookies Emma had baked earlier. It was supposed to be a peaceful evening.

But Serena was anything but peaceful.

She sat on the couch, one hand resting on her very pregnant belly, while the other rubbed her forehead. She was exhausted.

Nine months.

She had managed to keep her pregnancy a complete secret for nine whole months.

It hadn’t been easy—working from home, avoiding public appearances, making sure no...