Michael's eyes met mine, a flicker of guilt crossing his features. "I hate asking you to do this, but yes. The only way to protect you and the baby is to make sure the world believes we're solid. If they think we're falling apart, Liam and Vanessa will use it against us."
I stared into the fire for a moment, letting the warmth soothe the chill that had settled in my bones. "I'm not sure how much longer I can pretend. This whole situation… it's exhausting."
Michael reached across the small coffee table, gently placing his hand over mine. "I know. And I wish there was another way. But for now, we need to hold on. Just a little longer."
I looked at our hands, his warmth seeping into my cold skin. "Okay. But promise me, Michael. Once this is over, once we've dealt with Liam and the media… we figure out what this really is. No more pretending."
Michael's grip tightened, his voice soft but firm. "I promise."
