Chapter 41: something worth protecting.

### (Alaric's POV)For the first time in years, I woke up without immediately thinking about work, the company, or the investigation.And not to think about the endless problems waiting for me beyond these walls.Instead, my attention settled on the woman sitting beside me.Elena.She eventually gave up arguing and let me pull her back into bed.Not because she was weak Because she was exhausted.There was a difference.The morning sunlight poured through the windows, illuminating her face as she leaned against the headboard.She looked thoughtful.Quiet.A little embarrassed.And strangely beautiful.I caught myself staring.Again.Apparently, I had developed a habit."You're doing it again."Her voice broke through my thoughts.I looked up."Doing what?""Staring."I frowned."I wasn't staring.""You were.""I was checking if you're okay.""That's still staring."I almost smiled.Almost."Doctor Rowan specifically told us to monitor you."Elena groaned dramatically."She told you t

Chapter 42: The Ghost in the frame.

(Elena’s POV)The mansion felt different after Alex left.Maybe it was because of what he had said.Maybe it was because of the look on Alaric’s face when he saw the footage.Or maybe it was because I could feel it too now.The awareness.The uncomfortable sensation that someone, somewhere, had been watching.The warmth from a few minutes ago had vanished completely.Alaric was already on the phone before Alex reached the end of the hallway.Giving orders.Changing schedules.Increasing patrols.Doing what Alaric Carrington always did when faced with a problem.Taking control.I sat quietly on the edge of the bed and watched him.His voice remained calm.Controlled.But I knew him better now.Enough to hear what was hidden underneath.Fear.Not for himself.For me.For the baby.The realization settled heavily in my chest.“Move two men to the eastern gate.” He said, pausing to think for a bit.“No exceptions.” He added.He paused again as if gauging his words.“I don’t care if it inc

Alle Kapitel von THE CEO’S SURROGATE(WOMB CONTRACT): Kapitel 41 – Kapitel 42

Chapter 41: something worth protecting.

Chapter 42: The Ghost in the frame.