Mid-pregnancy flowed like a gentler river. Gu Liang's early symptoms eased. His appetite returned. His complexion grew visibly healthier. Emma's quiet care seemed to be working.
The tension in the apartment softened. Not warm— But no longer suffocating.
Emma declined all unnecessary engagements. Coming home on time became her new routine. She remained quiet, But her gaze often drifted toward Gu Liang— Especially his belly, now gently rounded, No longer hidden by loose clothing.
Her child was growing there. With each passing week, That truth became more tangible. More real.
A strange mix of pride and anxiety bloomed in her chest. She began studying parenting books— Clumsily learning how to change diapers, mix formula, Even browsing nursery designs online.
But peace didn't last.
One night, a muffled thud and a sharp gasp from the next room jolted her awake. Her heart seized. She leapt from bed and rushed to Gu Liang's room.
This time, the door wasn't locked.
She burst in— And saw him curled on the carpet, Clutching his right calf, Sweat beading on his forehead, His face twisted in pain.
A leg cramp. Common in mid-pregnancy.
Emma didn't think. She moved.
She dropped to one knee beside him, Voice tight with urgency. "Which leg?"
Gu Liang couldn't speak. He bit his lip, Pressed his fingers into the muscle.
Emma gently took his leg. It was cold, hard as stone.
She inhaled, Recalling what she'd read. She wrapped her palm around the cramping muscle, Massaged upward toward the heart, And pulled his toes gently toward his body.
"Relax, Gu Liang. I've got you…" Her voice was low, Urgent, Unconsciously soothing.
At first, he tensed— From pain, From her touch.
But her steady, practiced movements Eased the agony. The muscle softened. Warmth returned.
As clarity returned, Gu Liang realized their position— Half leaning into her, His leg cradled in her hands, Her breath warm against his skin.
Humiliation surged. He tried to pull away.
But Emma held firm.
"Don't move. It's not done. You'll cramp again." Her tone was commanding— Alpha instinct in full force.
He froze. Looked up.
Her eyes—usually cold or impatient— Were focused. Worried. Afraid?
She was afraid for him?
The thought rippled through him.
Emma didn't notice. Her attention was on his leg, Now soft and warm.
She finally released him.
"Better? Still hurts?" Her voice was quiet, Still locked on his face.
Gu Liang avoided her gaze. Tried to stand— But stumbled.
Emma instinctively caught his arm.
Her hand was warm, Steady. He stiffened— But didn't pull away.
She helped him to the bed. Then went to the bathroom, Returned with a warm towel, And gently wrapped it around his calf.
The heat soothed him. Loosened something inside.
He looked down— At Emma, Kneeling, Focused, Her hair messy from sleep, Her profile soft in the dim light.
This Alpha— Once impatient even during rut— Now looked like a partner. Concerned. Clumsy. Real.
Where was the hatred? The cold flame that had kept him going?
It felt… blurred.
"Let the cook warm your legs before bed. Or I can help." Her voice broke his thoughts. Still awkward, But full of care.
"Could be calcium deficiency. I'll ask the doctor tomorrow."
Gu Liang didn't respond. Just watched her.
She looked up— Met his gaze.
Their eyes locked. The air shifted.
No retreat. No sarcasm.
Just tension. And confusion.
After a long pause, Gu Liang looked away. His voice was hoarse.
"…Got it. Go rest."
No cold dismissal. Just quiet.
Emma's heart fluttered. A soft warmth spread.
She stood. "Call me if you need anything." Then left— Three glances back— Closing the door gently.
In her room, She leaned against the door, Heart pounding.
Her hands still remembered the feel of his skin— Cold, then warm. Her nose still held his scent— Sweat and white tea.
She realized— In that moment, She had forgotten the hate. Forgotten the blame. Forgotten the war.
She had only one thought— Don't let him get hurt.Don't let the baby get hurt.
That pure, instinctive protectiveness Filled her with a rare, quiet peace.
And in the master bedroom, Gu Liang lay awake. His leg still warm from her touch. His belly cradled by his hand.
Did you feel that, little one?
The person you'll call "Mom"…Might really be changing.
What should I do?
Keep her out?Protect myself and you?
Or…Try again?
The night was deep. The answer hidden.
But this small tremor— Had struck another blow To the ice between them.