The morning light crept into the villa, soft and golden. Zayan sat on the balcony, flipping through a small leather-bound photo album Asher had given him. It was Nana's — and every page told a story of Nora's past.
He paused at a baby picture of her — cheeks full, her tiny hands in her mouth, those wide curious eyes.
"So cute…" he whispered, a smile tugging at his lips. "So, so cute."
Meanwhile, down in the villa's study, Arion and the team of doctors were gathered in deep discussion.
"If she does get pregnant," Arion began, "would it affect her operation schedule?"
"It depends," Aaila said, arms folded thoughtfully. "If the fetus hasn't developed yet — not even a month old — it's still safe to operate."
Royce nodded. "Exactly. But if there's already a bump forming, it becomes dangerous. We'd have to wait until the baby is born."
Imara added, "And even then, we'll need to monitor her very closely. Her condition is delicate."
Back in the kitchen, Nora was busy — her hands covered in flour and sauce. Rex stood beside her, patiently teaching her how to make dirty rice, ribs, and mashed potatoes.
"All done!" she chirped, flashing a wide smile. It was one of those rare smiles — full, carefree, and childlike.
They set the table, placing each plate with care. With one dish in hand, she ran off.
"Z!" she called out excitedly.
Zayan looked up from his papers, glasses perched on his nose. "Yes, darling?"
"See! I made this for youuuu!" she giggled, spooning mashed potatoes into his mouth.
He blinked in surprise — it was really good. So good.
"My baby," he said warmly, finishing every bite. "This tastes amazing."
He kissed her cheek, wrapping his arms around her as Arion entered the room.
Clearing his throat, Arion smirked. "Hope I'm not interrupting."
Nora looked up, still hugging Zayan. "Zayan, darling, why don't you go give Asher some too?" she grinned and ran off to find Asher, her soft voice calling his name down the hallway.
Zayan turned to Arion, serious now.
"She can get pregnant," Arion confirmed, "but if it's still early — under a month — we can proceed with the operation. If a bump forms, we'll wait for the delivery."
"And afterward?" Zayan asked.
"She can go through with the surgery a few days post-birth," Arion reassured. "It'll be safe."
Zayan took a deep breath. "I want a child, Arion. If I have to wait, I'll wait."
Arion smiled. "Then we'll prepare for both outcomes."
Later that afternoon, Nora fed Asher herself, laughter echoing in the villa.
"Hmmmm, Nora," Asher mumbled, "your food is too good."
By the poolside that evening, Nora was splashing and laughing with Aaila, Frya, Sora, and Imara. Zayan watched from upstairs, his heart swelling at the sight of her joy.
Asher entered the room.
"She looks happy," he said.
Zayan didn't look away. "She wants a baby, Ash. And so do I. The operation will be postponed depending on how things go, but… I want to give her that joy."
Asher was quiet for a moment. "Just be careful with her. And everything."
That night, Nora came into their room soaked from the pool.
"Z!" she called sweetly.
Zayan, now shirtless, looked at her. "Yes, love?"
"I had fun!" she smiled.
"Nora… do you want a baby?" he asked, eyes soft.
Her face lit up, nodding fast. "Yes! Yes, yes!"
He handed her a glass of milk mixed with a strong dose of alcohol. "Drink this, sweetheart."
She downed it without hesitation.
Minutes passed — and her body loosened, eyes dazed. She giggled, wobbling slightly.
Zayan felt the tension within him peak. He had held himself back for too long. Slowly, he moved closer to her.
She murmured, "Z…Z…"
He kissed her deeply, gently, but with intensity. She moaned softly against his mouth, drunk and pliant. He lifted her, laid her gently on the bed, and began to explore her body like he had years ago — every inch, every curve, every moan driving him wild.
The night became a blur of passion. Her cries were muffled beneath his hand as he took her, over and over, whispering her name like a prayer.
By dawn, she was curled in his arms, asleep.
Zayan gently touched her cheek, brushing her hair aside.
When she stirred, she winced. "Z… my legs and head hurt. I can't stand up."
He sighed. "Maybe I pushed a little too much," he mumbled with a guilty smile, lifting her onto his back.
The rest of the day was quiet. Nora, Asher, and the others sat curled up in the living room watching movies. Nora rested her head on Asher, while Shaw leaned on her tummy. Kiernan and Maverick were asleep on the floor, the doctors not far behind.
Zayan returned from work, smiling at the sight. He changed clothes, activated the security system, and lay down beside them. Taking out his phone, he captured the moment — a rare, peaceful family moment — and saved the photo.
One word flickered in his heart: Home.