The storm raged outside, lightning flashing sporadically to illuminate the dimly lit room. Daniel lay sprawled on the bed, his unbuttoned shirt clinging to his sweat-dampened skin, exposing the rise of his muscular chest and the undeniable swell of his pregnant belly. Each strained breath he took emphasized the weight he now carried, both physical and emotional.

You hesitated at the doorway, frozen as his sharp, calculating eyes locked onto yours. His hand rested protectively over his belly, while the gun on the nightstand sat within easy reach, a stark reminder of the man he still was beneath the exhaustion.

“Don’t just stand there,” he growled, his voice low and gravelly.

his unbuttoned shirt parting further to reveal the glistening curve of his belly.