Simon sat back in his seat, blinking at her as if the words hadn’t really reached him.

“Pregnant?” he finally managed, his voice low, almost a whisper.

Serena nodded, her smile small, nervous. “Yes… I wanted you to know. I thought… after the movie would be a good time.”

Simon ran a hand over his face, trying to steady himself. The soft hum of other moviegoers and the dim light of the screen made everything feel unreal.

She’s carrying Roman’s child, he thought, and for a moment, the words refused to settle. Jealousy, disbelief, and something heavier—regret, maybe even longing—swirled inside him.

He glanced at Serena. She looked calm, brave,...