~Elsie's POV
My hand moved instinctively to my stomach again, resting there gently, and I swallowed hard.
"I'm okay," I whispered to myself, although I was not entirely sure if I was trying to convince myself or the life growing inside me.
The maids hovered nearby, careful but attentive, adjusting the pillows behind me and ensuring I was comfortable without saying much.
I appreciated the silence, at least for a moment.
Then the door opened again. This time, it was not controlled.
It was not quiet.
It was fast.
"Elsie!"
I barely had time to look up before Gianna was already crossing the room, her expression a mix of panic and relief, her steps quick and uneven as if she had not slowed down since the moment she heard.
And then she was in front of me, wrapping her arms around me, not as tightly as Salvatore had, but with enough urgency that I felt the emotion behind it immediately.
