Chapter 36: A Romantic Night
In the opulent office of Hart Enterprises, Alexander sat across from Ethan, his trusted secretary. The air was thick with an unspoken tension as Alexander leaned back in his chair, his brow creased in contemplation.
"Ethan," he began, his voice steady yet tinged with concern, "I've noticed something about Lila lately. Whenever she's on the phone and I walk in without her knowing, her hand trembles. It's as if she's hiding something. I can't shake the feeling that something's troubling her."
Ethan's heart raced at the implication. "Really?" he replied, striving to maintain a calm facade. "But you know how it is; sometimes people just get nervous."
Alexander shook his head, his expression grave. "She told me yesterday that she was going to her aunt's house. But when I called her later, she didn't pick up. I had to call her aunt, who said she hadn't seen her maybe she went to her younger aunt's place."
Ethan's mind whirled. "Maybe she did go to her younger aunt's place or her paternal aunt's," he suggested, attempting to redirect the conversation.
"Perhaps," Alexander replied, his voice heavy with doubt. "But I can't shake the feeling that something's off. I just want to make sure she's okay."
Ethan leaned in, his expression earnest. "Have you considered the possibility that she might be cheating on you?"
Alexander's eyes widened in disbelief. "No, Lila would never do that. She's the most supportive wife I could ever ask for. Besides, she's pregnant. She wouldn't jeopardize our family."
Ethan nodded, though a flicker of uncertainty crossed his mind. "Of course, I understand. But just keep an eye on her, okay? You know I care about both of you."
"I will," Alexander affirmed, his voice resolute. "I just want to protect her and our baby."
Later that evening, Alexander returned home, a vibrant bouquet of flowers in hand. A surge of happiness coursed through him as he envisioned surprising Lila. He stepped inside, the sweet fragrance of the flowers filling the air. Beneath Ethan's influence, he was unaware that she was at his place.
"Lila, I'm home!" he called, his voice brimming with cheer.
She emerged from the kitchen, her face lighting up at the sight of him. "Alexander! You're back early!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with joy.
"I wanted to surprise you," he said, presenting her with the bouquet. "These are for you."
Lila's heart swelled with affection as she accepted the flowers. "They're beautiful! Thank you so much."
As they settled into the living room, Alexander's curiosity was piqued. "Didn't you mention your aunt called you yesterday? When I called her, she said she hadn't seen you. Where did you go? You seemed a bit off when I asked earlier."
Lila took a deep breath, her heart racing. "I went to my paternal aunt's place," she replied, her voice steady. "I just needed some time to think."
Alexander smiled, blissfully unaware of the tension in her words. "I'm glad you guys are back together. I've planned a special dinner for us tonight at the company restaurant." Little did he know, his secretary had already spoken with Lila, ensuring she would act naturally so he wouldn't suspect anything.
A wave of relief washed over Lila. "That sounds wonderful," she said, her smile genuine.
They quickly changed into their finest outfits, and as they drove to the restaurant, Lila felt a thrill of excitement. The restaurant was exclusive, and they were the only patrons in the VIP section. The ambiance was intimate, with soft music playing in the background.
As they sat down, Alexander poured them both a glass of wine. "I want to spoil you and our baby tonight," he said, his eyes filled with love. "I can't wait to be a dad."
Lila felt warmth envelop her at his words. They indulged in a lavish meal, laughter and conversation flowing effortlessly between them. The evening felt magical, a moment of bliss amidst the complexities of life.