"Gérard?"
Charlotte's voice carried through the room, and within seconds, he appeared at the doorway. A towel hung loosely around his neck, another secured at his waist, his damp hair still dripping faint traces of water down his skin.
"Yes, Princess?" he asked softly, stepping closer.
"Come here."
He didn't hesitate. Pulling a chair toward the bed, he sat beside her. When she reached for him, he placed his large hand into hers without question.
"Your hand…" she murmured gently, guiding it to rest over her swollen belly.
He stilled.
Then movement.
The baby kicked.
Gérard's eyes widened in pure wonder. Instantly, his other hand joined the first, pressing lightly as if trying to feel every inch of that life beneath her skin. When the baby kicked again, a soft, disbelieving laugh escaped him.
Carefully, he lowered his head, resting his ear against her belly as though he might hear something more.
Charlotte giggled softly. "What are you doing?"
