Chapter 398 : Too Early

*Lauren*

I shuffled the papers on my desk, the numbers and letters starting to blur together as I fought through the fog of tiredness. My mind was running and I just felt off today. But, I hadn’t been sleeping well and I didn’t feel like I was getting enough water.

Maybe I could end my day early?

A yawn crept up on me, and I covered my mouth, blinking rapidly to clear my vision. Maybe another glass of water would help shake off the drowsiness.

"Hydration is key," I told the empty room, trying to smile at my own attempt to care for myself. For us. For the tiny life growing inside me. My hand fell naturally to my belly, a protective gesture that had become second nature over the past few months.

I stood, walking softly to the kitchenette, the cool tile feeling good compared to the warmth of the wooden floor under my desk. My feet were starting to swell too much for shoes and I’d taken to moving around the office barefoot.

Lucas thought I was hilarious.

Lucas.