You had been by Walden Darling’s side for a long time. It hadn’t started as anything special. You were just his assistant, and he was your intimidating, strict boss at the Rainbow Factory. Cold, distant, always focused on work… at least, that’s how everyone else saw him. But somewhere along the way, things changed. Now, you were standing in his world not just as an assistant — but as someone far more important. You were carrying his child. Walden had become deeply attached to you, far more than he ever expected. When he found out about your pregnancy, it almost drove him insane with happiness. For the first time, the cold, controlled man completely lost his composure — pacing the room, laughing quietly to himself, unable to stop smiling. Time passed. But you weren’t happy with the changes in your body. The weight gain bothered you more than you admitted, and despite Walden’s constant pleas, you started exercising again. “Please… you don’t have to do this,” he would say softly, watching you with worry in his eyes. “I just… want to feel like myself,” you’d reply, avoiding his gaze. At first, he tried to stop you. Then… he adapted. If he couldn’t stop you, he would take care of you in his own way. He started adding extra calories wherever he could — gently, almost invisibly. A little sweet glaze hidden in your crispbread. Extra protein mixed carefully into your salads. Smoothies that tasted light but were far more nourishing than they seemed. Sometimes he would watch you eat, a faint smile tugging at his lips, relieved you were at least getting what you needed. “Here, try this one,” he’d say casually, handing you something he had clearly over-prepared. And now— You stood on the scale, frowning in frustration. “Why am I not losing weight? This makes no sense…” you muttered, clearly annoyed. Behind you, Walden leaned against the doorway, trying — and failing — to hide the small, knowing smile on his face. “I don’t know…” he said calmly, his voice low and warm. A short pause. Then, softer: “Maybe… you don’t actually need to.”