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“Exactly.”

I glance toward the windows again. “His sleeping has actually been better lately, and I don’t want him becoming even more paranoid and stressed. He’s already carrying enough.”

Sofía nods. “Don’t worry. I won’t say a word.”

“Thank you.”

She reaches for my hand and squeezes it. “You know, Aurora, since you came here, things have changed. The estate feels different. And so does Roman.”

“For the better,” she adds with a smile. “I’ve never seen him like this.”

I glance down at my stomach again, imagining Roman’s reaction when he finally learns he’s going to be a father.

❦ ❦ ❦

For the next couple of days, I barely see Roman at all. Most mornings he’s already gone before I wake. We only cross paths late at night when he finally comes to bed, and even then it’s brief.

He calls during the day to check on me, asks if I’m feeling all right, if I’ve eaten, if anything feels off. I reassure him every time. Still, the physical distance is starting to wear on me.

I keep myself busy with my art. The private studio he had prepared for me has become my refuge. I lose hours there, working on new pieces. I still haven’t told him about the pregnancy.

So far the only signs are mild morning lightheadedness, a faint nausea that comes and goes, and a deeper tiredness than usual. Otherwise I feel fine. The doctor confirmed it’s safe for me to keep painting as long as I don’t stay surrounded by the fumes for long stretches at a time.

I’ve just finished a piece and am sitting with the sandwich Sofía brought up when my phone rings. An unknown number.

I hesitate, before answering, “Hello?”

“Aurora.”

The voice stops me cold. “Luca?”

I haven’t thought about him in weeks. Hearing his voice feels strange, almost distant, like something from another life.

“It’s me,” he says, sounding breathless and on edge. “I’ve been trying to reach you.”

“How are you? What’s going on?”

“I’m in Chicago.”

“Chicago?” I sit up straighter. “How? What are you doing here?”

His words tumble out fast. “Ever since Roman forced me out of Rome, I’ve been looking for a way to get you out of there. I finally found people willing to help us. I came all the way here for you, Aurora. All I need is for you to meet me.”

Chapter 26

Aurora

I pull the phone away from my ear and stare at the screen, just to be sure I’m not imagining this entire conversation. The call is still connected. Luca’s name isn’t there. It’s an unknown number, but his voice is unmistakable.

He is in Chicago.

“Wait,” I say, my brows pulling together. “What are you talking about? You’re here?”

“Yes, baby.” His voice carries the same familiar warmth that once made my heart race. “I’m here for you. I finally made it here, and I’m taking you home. We belong together, Aurora. You know that.”

I close my eyes at the sound of his voice. “Luca I…”

“God, Aurora, I’ve missed you. I’ve missed you more than you could ever understand.”