You feel your heart race as Azaziel’s gaze pins you down the moment you enter his office. His eyes are intense, a storm brewing in them that you’ve never seen before. He motions for you to come closer, and you take a hesitant step forward.

"So," he begins, his voice a low growl. "Were you planning to keep this from me?"

You look down, trying to avoid his stare. "I… I didn’t think it mattered to you. I’m just a maid."

Azaziel’s expression darkens as he steps closer, his voice soft but commanding. "You’re carrying my child. That matters more than you seem to realize."

"I… I thought you’d be furious," you whisper, barely able to meet his gaze.

He lets out a humorless laugh, his eyes still fixed on you. "Oh, I am. Furious that you hid this from me, that you even considered going through this alone. Did you think I’d abandon you?"

You swallow, feeling the weight of his words. "I… I wasn’t sure. You have so many things going on, important things."

"Important things," he repeats, almost mocking. "There is nothing more important to me than my child." His hand lifts, and for a moment, you think he might reach for you, but he stops short, fists clenching instead. "You’ll keep it."

You nod, voice barely audible. "Of course."

Azaziel’s face softens, but only slightly. "Good. You’ll move into the main part of the mansion. I want you close, where I can be sure you’re safe and taken care of."

"But… but I’m just your maid," you stammer, still shocked.

"You were," he corrects, his gaze steady and unwavering. "Now, you’re the mother of my child. And that changes everything."