Chapter 6

Chapter 6

The lights in the treatment room shone brightly. The sharp scent of antiseptic stung the air. Natalie lay on the hospital bed with an IV line attached to her hand. Her face was still pale, but her breathing had become slightly steadier.

A doctor stepped out from behind the curtain, removed his mask, and looked at the man standing restlessly beside the bed.

“Her condition is quite serious,” the doctor said bluntly. “The patient experienced severe cramps due to exhaustion and emotional pressure. For now, she must undergo intensive care and close observation.”

“What about… my pregnancy?” Natalie asked.

The doctor glanced briefly at Natalie. “The fetus is still holding on. The heartbeat is normal. But if the patient had been even slightly late, the risk would have been significant.”

Natalie let out a relieved breath even though her chest still felt tight. “So… my child is okay?”

“For now, yes,” the doctor replied. “But you must get plenty of rest. You are not allowed to be under stress.”

“Thank you, Doctor,” Natalie said softly.

The doctor gave a brief nod and walked away, leaving an awkward silence in the room.

Athan stood there for a few seconds without speaking. His gaze lingered on Natalie’s face, then slowly drifted down to her still-flat abdomen.

“So…” Athan finally spoke, his tone soft yet filled with curiosity. “You’re pregnant?”

Natalie nodded slightly. “Yes.”

Athan rubbed his face briefly. “And you’re married?”

“Yes,” Natalie answered shortly. "

Athan’s brows furrowed slightly. “Then where is your family? Your husband’s mother? Why were you alone at the Cooper residence?”

Natalie turned her head toward the window. She remained silent for quite some time before finally speaking. “I’m already divorced, and I went there only to take something. After that, I did intend to leave.”

“What did you take that left your body in this condition?” Athan asked again.

Natalie smiled faintly, a smile that did not reach her eyes. “My self-respect,” she said softly.

Athan fell silent. There were many questions in his mind, but he held himself back. However, one thing still lingered.

“Your husband…” Athan looked at Natalie carefully. “Cristian Cooper?”

Natalie immediately turned to him. “Of course not.”

Her answer was quick, almost reflexive.

Athan was slightly surprised. “Not him?”

Natalie shook her head. “I’m just a maid. How could I possibly be married to a young master like Cristian Cooper.”

Her tone was calm, almost flat. There was no excessive emotional tremor.

Athan observed her for a few seconds, then nodded slowly. “I understand.”

He pulled a chair over and sat beside the bed. “I’m Athan Alexander Styles.”

Natalie smiled faintly. “I know.”

Athan smiled slightly. “No wonder.”

He paused for a moment, then said, “Actually, I came to the Cooper residence today for business matters. I’m Cristian Cooper’s business partner. There was a collaboration discussion that was supposed to take place.”

Natalie did not seem surprised. “I see.”

“But I didn’t expect to meet you at the gate in that condition,” Athan continued.

Natalie took a slow breath. “I didn’t expect to meet you again either.”

Athan tried to recall something, then nodded slightly even though he was not fully certain. “No matter what, you saved my life earlier. If I had been even a little late…”

Natalie interrupted softly, “You also saved me and my child today. We’re even.”

Athan let out a short chuckle. “It’s not that simple.”

He looked at Natalie more intently. “You don’t look like an ordinary maid.”

Natalie smiled faintly. “A lot of people say that.”

Athan did not press further. “I won’t interfere in your personal affairs. But while you’re being treated here, I’ll make sure no one disturbs you.”

Natalie looked at him. “Why?”

“Because I don’t like being in debt,” Athan answered honestly. “And because…” He paused briefly. “I’m not comfortable seeing a pregnant woman alone in a condition like this.”

“Thank you,” she finally said.

Athan stood up. “Get some rest. I’ll take care of the hospital administration.”

Natalie nodded. “Alright.”

As Athan walked away, Natalie closed her eyes. Her hand gently returned to her stomach.

“We’re safe, my child,” she whispered softly.