Chapter 34: The Calm Before the Storm
The days following the party were filled with a mix of excitement and anxiety for Lila. She was determined to focus on her pregnancy and the love she shared with Alexander, but the shadow of her affair with Ethan loomed over her like a dark cloud.
As she settled into her routine, Lila found herself attending prenatal classes, surrounded by other expectant mothers. The atmosphere was filled with joy and anticipation, and Lila tried to immerse herself in the experience. She listened intently to the instructor, who spoke passionately about the journey of motherhood.
"Remember, every pregnancy is unique," the instructor said, her voice warm and encouraging. "Embrace the changes in your body and mind. This is a beautiful time in your life."
Lila nodded, trying to absorb the positivity around her. Yet, as she glanced at her phone during a break, she felt a pang of longing for Ethan. They hadn't spoken since the party, and the silence was deafening.
Later that evening, as she told the kitchen to prepared dinner for Alexander, her mind wandered back to Ethan. She couldn't shake the feeling that their connection was too strong to ignore. Just as she was lost in thought, her phone buzzed with a message from Ethan.
"Can we meet tonight? I need to see you," the message read.
Lila's heart raced. She glanced at the clock—Alexander would be home soon. She quickly typed back, "Yes. I'll come over after dinner."
When Alexander arrived home, he was in high spirits, eager to share his day with her. "Hey, love! It smells amazing in here," he said, wrapping his arms around her waist and planting a kiss on her cheek.
"Just trying to make your favorite," Lila replied, forcing a smile. "How was your day?"
"Busy, but productive," he said, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "We're making great progress on the new project. I can't wait to share the details with you."
Lila nodded, her heart swelling with pride for her husband. But as they sat down to dinner, she felt a twinge of guilt. She was living a lie, and the weight of it pressed heavily on her chest.
After dinner, as they cleaned up, Lila felt a rush of anxiety. "I just got a call from my aunt," she said, trying to sound casual. "She wants me to come over tonight."
"Do you want me to give you a ride?" Alexander offered, concern etched on his face.
Lila shook her head, forcing a smile. "No, it's fine. I can drive myself. You've had a long day; you should relax."
"Are you sure?" he asked, still looking worried.
"Yes, really. I'll be fine," she reassured him, her heart racing at the thought of leaving him behind.
As Alexander nodded, Lila felt a mix of relief and guilt. She quickly gathered her things and kissed him goodbye, her heart pounding with anticipation as she headed out the door.
Once in her car, Lila felt a rush of excitement. She drove to Ethan's apartment, her mind racing with thoughts of their time together. The moment she arrived, she hurried inside, her heart soaring at the sight of him.
Ethan was waiting for her, his expression a mix of concern and desire. "Lila," he said, stepping forward and pulling her into a passionate embrace. "I've missed you."
"I've missed you too," she replied, her voice filled with longing. "I couldn't stay away."
They kissed deeply, the world outside fading away as they lost themselves in each other. The warmth of his body against hers ignited a fire within her, and for a moment, all her worries melted away.
As they pulled apart, Lila looked into Ethan's eyes, searching for the right words. "What do we do now?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Ethan took a deep breath, his expression serious. "We need to talk about what happened at the party. If Alexander finds out about us, it could ruin everything."
Lila felt a rush of panic. "He can never find out," she insisted, her voice trembling. "I can't let that happen. I can't lose him, not now."
Ethan's gaze hardened. "But what if he does find out? You know how dangerous this is."
"I know," Lila replied, her heart racing. "But I love you. I can't end this just like that."
Ethan stepped closer, his voice low and earnest. "You're playing a dangerous game, Lila. You need to be careful. If he suspects anything, it could all come crashing down."