Chapter 352

Chapter 352:

“But Alice…” I began, worry clinging to my words, “she’s still in the ward.”

Clayton seemed to understand the worry flickering in my eyes. He raised an eyebrow, his expression calm and reassuring. “Don’t fret. I’ve already made sure Alice is taken care of.” His confidence eased the weight pressing on my chest, and I couldn’t help but trust him entirely. His words felt like a promise I could rely on.

He took me back to his place. As I sank into the softness of the couch, the coziness of his home enveloped me, and slowly, the tension within me began to ease.

But a question gnawed at me, curiosity suddenly bubbling up. How had Clayton appeared at the prison so suddenly?

Just then, Clayton emerged from the kitchen, holding a steaming bowl of noodles. The rich scent filled the room, wrapping around me like a warm embrace, and I couldn’t resist asking, “How did you know I was here?”

Clayton smiled as he placed the bowl on the table, his voice casual yet attentive. “My men were on patrol. When they saw you, they contacted me immediately.”

As he spoke, the aroma from the noodles filled my senses, and I couldn’t help myself. I grabbed the fork and took a bite. The taste was familiar, comforting, like a forgotten memory being brought back to life.

I glanced up at Clayton, who had settled beside me, his smile still so gentle.

For a fleeting moment, it felt like I was home—a feeling I hadn’t experienced in what seemed like an eternity.

After finishing the bowl, a warmth spread through me, not just from the food but from the peace that now settled inside. “Thank you,” I said softly, setting down the bowl and offering him a smile.

His face brightened with a soft glow, his voice gentle as he asked, “Are you full?”

I beamed, nodding eagerly. “It was delicious!”

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His smile deepened as he reached over and ruffled my hair again, the affection in his eyes unmistakable. “I’m glad you enjoyed it.”

With that, he rose to clear the dishes, but I quickly stood up, feeling a bit embarrassed. “Let me help you.”

He shook his head, tapping my nose playfully. “No. You need to rest. You’ve got a little one to think about now.” His tone was light, but the meaning behind his words was profound.

A wave of warmth washed over me, and all I could do was stand there, my cheeks flushing as I watched him clear the table, feeling an odd sense of gratitude.

When he returned, Clayton led me back to the sofa, his presence making the space feel even more welcoming.

He took my hand gently, his thumb brushing over my knuckles. “How have you been feeling these days, Makenna?” he asked, his voice filled with concern.

I offered him a reassuring smile. “I’m fine, really. Don’t worry.”

Clayton let out a quiet sigh of relief, his shoulders relaxing slightly.

As I touched my flat belly, I marveled at the thought of the new life growing within me. It was both strange and beautiful, like holding a fragile secret that only I could understand.

But Clayton’s expression grew serious, his voice softer but filled with weight. “Makenna, please… think about what I said earlier.”

I bit my lip, hesitating. The thought gnawed at me from every angle. This child, my only family left in the world… Could I really give it up? But if I chose to bring it into the world, the price would be my life.

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