CHAPTER 53 — MOVING IN WITH DANTE
Morning — Auri's Apartment
Auri lay sprawled on her bed, the morning sunlight piercing through her curtains. Her head throbbed, her stomach churned, and her body ached with fatigue.
Dante's knock at the door startled her. "Auri? Are you awake?" His voice was tense, full of worry.
"I… I'm up," she croaked, forcing herself to sit up.
Dante stepped in immediately, scanning her pale face and weak posture. "You're burning up. You shouldn't be alone like this. Come on, you need to rest… properly."
"I'm fine, Dante. I just need some rest," she said weakly, brushing off his concern.
"You're not fine," he said sharply, taking her hand. "You're sick, exhausted, and you've been pushing yourself. That stops today. I'm not letting you stay here by yourself anymore."
Auri tried to protest, but Dante's firm grip and worried gaze made her hesitate.
"I… I don't want to be a burden," she whispered.
"You're not a burden," Dante said, his voice low and commanding. "You're my woman. Our baby needs you healthy. I won't take no for an answer. You're moving in with me, today."
Arrival at Dante's Mansion
Auri followed Dante silently, her body still weak. When they arrived at the grand gates of Dante's mansion, she stopped, staring wide-eyed. The sheer size and luxury of the estate were breathtaking.
"Wow… Dante… this place…" she murmured.
Dante glanced at her, a small smirk tugging at his lips. "Welcome to your new home," he said. "Everything here is for you, Auri. You need anything, you tell me. I want you to be comfortable, safe, and taken care of."
The maids appeared, smiling warmly. "Welcome, Miss Auri," one said, bowing slightly. "We're here to help you with anything you need."
Auri blushed lightly, overwhelmed by the attention. "Thank you… I didn't expect all of this."
Dante raised a finger, commanding attention. "I've instructed everyone—food, rest, comfort, anything she needs, you provide it. Protect her, serve her, and make sure she is happy. Understood?"
"Yes, sir!" the staff chorused, bows deep.
Auri's cheeks warmed at the scene. "Dante… you're going overboard."
"You'll get used to it," he said with a teasing glint in his eyes. "And I insist you sleep in my room tonight. I want to make sure you're okay. I won't let you face this alone."
Auri's stomach twisted again at his words. Nausea hit her, and she clutched her stomach.
Dante immediately took her hand, helping her to a plush armchair. "Sit. I'll get some ginger tea. Rest, Auri. I'll take care of everything."
First Night — Settling In
Auri rested on the large bed in Dante's room, wrapped in soft blankets. She felt the warmth of the room, the quiet hum of the mansion, and the steady presence of Dante nearby.
He hovered over her, fussing with pillows and blankets. "Are you comfortable? Too hot? Too cold? Do you want water?"
"I'm fine… I think," she murmured, exhausted.
"You don't think, Auri," he said, kneeling beside her bed. "I want you completely fine. Rest. Sleep. I'll handle everything else."
Auri's eyes softened at his protectiveness. "Dante… thank you."
"You don't have to thank me," he said softly. "I'll always be here. For you, for our baby. You're my priority now."
She nodded, feeling a mix of comfort and nervousness. Despite being overwhelmed by his mansion, staff, and attention, she slowly let herself relax.
As night fell, Dante stayed nearby, checking on her every few minutes. Auri drifted into a light, restless sleep, feeling safe for the first time in weeks.
Auri thought about the whirlwind of events—the pregnancy, moving into Dante's mansion, and the unwavering care he showed her. Despite her initial hesitation, she realized how much she needed him, not just for herself but for their unborn child.
Dante, meanwhile, stood by her bedside, heart full of protective pride. Seeing her safe, even for a moment, eased the tension in his shoulders. He silently vowed to ensure that every day moving forward, she would be cared for, loved, and protected.
"This is just the beginning," he murmured to himself. "I'll make her happy"