Alice

The next day, I wore a simple white gown that fell just above my knees, paired with a sleek black bag and expensive heels. As I made my way downstairs, I ran into my mother-in-law.

"Where are you going?" she asked, her voice tinged with concern.

I met her gaze, noticing the paleness of her face and the deepening wrinkles. She must be missing Xavier terribly.

"I'm going to the company," I replied. "Xavier's company."

My mother-in-law's eyes drifted to my stomach, and a faint smile played on her lips.

"I can see the baby already," she whispered, her voice cracky.

My stomach was noticeably rounder now, a clear...