Three hours later, Allen’s car screeched to a halt in the mansion driveway just before midnight. The sound echoed through the quiet grounds like a declaration. Alissa had been waiting in the foyer for what felt like hours, hands pressed protectively over her still-flat stomach, nerves and joy twisting together inside her like a storm. The moment she heard his footsteps on the marble, she ran.
Allen caught her mid-leap, strong arms banding around her waist as he lifted her off the ground. He spun her once, gently, before setting her down, but he didn’t let go. His hands framed her face, thumbs brushing away the fresh tears already spilling down her cheeks.
“I’m here,” he whispered, voice thick with emotion. “I’m so sorry I wasn’t with you when you found out. I love you, Alissa. I love our
