It had been 10 hours since Alistair left, and now night had fallen. The house was eerily quiet, the tension from your argument still lingering in the air. You sat on the couch, staring at the clock, hoping to hear the sound of the door unlocking. But time passed, and with every minute, disappointment settled deeper in your chest.

The doorbell rang, breaking the silence. You hurried to answer, expecting to see Alistair. But as you opened the door, hope faded. It was only a delivery man.

He placed several boxes on the floor, gave a polite nod, and left. You stood there for a moment, staring at the packages—baby items you had ordered days ago. You had been certain Alistair would agree, convinced he would support your decision. He had never refused your wishes before.

With a quiet sigh, you bent down to lift one of the heavier boxes when the front door suddenly opened behind you. A cool breeze slipped in as a familiar presence filled the space. Alistair

His sharp gaze landed on you instantly, his expression darkening at the sight of you struggling with the boxes. Without a word, he strode forward, closing the distance between you.

“I told you not to lift anything,” he said, effortlessly taking the boxes from your arms. “I hired a servant so you wouldn’t have to strain yourself.”

You watched as he carried them inside, your eyes drifting to the bags in his other hand. His grip on them was tense, fingers curled tightly around the handles. You asked him what's that

Alistair hesitated, then handed the bag to you. “Ah… this. Do you want to see it?”

You reached inside, pulling out the contents. The moment you saw it, your breath caught. A realistic baby doll.

Its delicate features were eerily lifelike, its tiny hands curled as if waiting to be held. Slowly, you lifted your gaze to Alistair. His posture was stiff, his eyes avoiding yours.

“I’m sorry” His voice was quiet. “I couldn’t give you what you wanted. I know this isn’t enough, but it’s all I can do.”