CHAPTER 55 — AURI MOVES IN
Morning — A New Start
Auri awoke to the gentle sunlight streaming through the large windows of Dante's master bedroom. The plush sheets and the softness of the bed were a far cry from her modest apartment. For the first time in weeks, she felt a sense of peace.
Beside her, Dante was still asleep, his hand resting on her waist, a small frown of concentration on his face as if he were guarding her even in sleep. Auri smiled softly, brushing a lock of hair from his face. "He really never stops thinking about me," she whispered.
She stretched carefully, feeling the slight twinges of nausea that had become a constant reminder of her pregnancy. The sound of footsteps drew her attention. One of the maids peeked into the room with a tray of breakfast.
"Good morning, Miss Auri," she said warmly. "Breakfast is ready. Sir Dante asked me to bring it here so you don't have to move too much."
Auri laughed softly, still embarrassed by how cared for she was. "Thank you… I don't know what I would do without all of you."
"Don't worry, miss. Sir Dante has made sure you have everything you need," the maid replied with a wink, leaving the tray on the bedside table.
Dante's Morning Check-In
At that moment, Dante stirred awake, stretching his long arms before noticing Auri sitting up. "Morning," he said softly, voice husky from sleep.
"Morning," she replied, a shy smile on her face.
He leaned closer, brushing his lips gently against her forehead. "How are you feeling?"
Auri shrugged, trying to seem cheerful despite the fluttering unease in her stomach. "A little nauseous, but… okay."
Dante's eyes darkened with concern. "Come here," he said, pulling her into his arms. "You don't have to pretend. If you're uncomfortable, I'll take care of everything."
"I… I don't want to be a burden," Auri whispered.
"You're never a burden," Dante said firmly. "You're carrying my child. That makes you the most important person in the world to me. And right now, I only care about you and our baby."
Her cheeks flushed, a mix of shyness and happiness. "You really think about me all the time, don't you?"
"Every second," he replied with a small smirk, brushing her hair behind her ear. "Even when I'm in meetings, I'm wondering if you're comfortable, if you've eaten, if you need me."
Settling In
Later that morning, Auri walked through Dante's mansion, still in awe of its grandeur. The maids had already unpacked some of her belongings, creating a cozy little corner for her near the master bedroom.
"I can't believe I'm living here," she murmured. "It feels like a dream."
Dante appeared behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist. "It's real, Auri. And it's ours. This house, this baby, us… everything."
Auri leaned back into him, savoring the warmth of his embrace. "You spoil me too much," she teased lightly.
He smirked. "I spoil what I love. You and our child deserve the world."
Playful Moments
The day passed with a mixture of chores, laughter, and flirty interactions.
Auri tried to help arrange a few items in the nursery, but the weight of her belly made her move slowly. Dante stepped behind her, lifting her slightly so she could reach the top shelf.
"Thank you," she said, laughing. "I feel like a helpless giant sometimes."
"You're not helpless," he said, lowering her gently. "You're perfect. And you're my responsibility. I'll handle the rest."
Later, they sat in the lounge, Dante holding her hand while she worked on her laptop. He teased her relentlessly, making silly faces whenever she concentrated too hard.
"You're distracting me!" she exclaimed, trying to swat his hand away.
"I'm just keeping you entertained," he replied with a wink. "You need laughter and happiness, not stress."
Auri rolled her eyes but couldn't hide her smile. Even in the midst of her hormonal mood swings, Dante's playful antics always made her laugh.
Evening — Dante Balances Work and Care
By evening, Dante had a few urgent business calls. He sat at his office desk, headset on, while Auri rested nearby on a chaise lounge, still feeling slightly queasy.
"Are you sure you're okay?" he asked between calls, glancing at her anxiously.
"I'm fine… really," she replied, trying to sound convincing.
He shook his head. "I don't believe you. You don't have to push yourself. I can handle everything. Meetings can wait. Your comfort doesn't."
Auri leaned against the cushions, a small smile playing on her lips. "I know… I just… I don't want to be lazy all day. I want to stay active."
"Active is fine," Dante said, eyes softening as he looked at her. "But not at the expense of you or our baby. Remember, your job now is to rest, laugh, and let me take care of you."
Tender Moments
Later, Dante joined her on the chaise lounge after finishing a call. He rested his forehead against hers. "Do you know how beautiful you look right now?"
Auri laughed lightly, embarrassed. "I'm sick and pale… not exactly beautiful."
"You're glowing," he said softly. "Every moment, every expression, every little quirk makes me fall deeper for you. Even when you're crying or annoyed or tired… I love all of it."
Auri's heart raced. She leaned into him, resting her head on his shoulder. "You… really make me feel safe. Even when I'm overwhelmed or scared."
"That's because you're mine," Dante said, pressing a gentle kiss to her temple. "And I'll protect you and our baby, always."
She sighed, finally letting herself relax completely. "I think… I'm really going to like living here."
Dante chuckled. "I knew you would. And soon, this will feel like home in every way. Not just the house, but with me, the baby… our little family."
Closing the Day
As night fell, Dante tucked Auri into the bed, ensuring she was comfortable. He kissed her forehead once more.
"Sleep well, my love. Tomorrow is a new day. I'll be here the whole time, and we'll face everything together."
"I… I feel so lucky," Auri whispered.
"You are lucky," Dante replied softly. "And so am I."
As Auri drifted to sleep, Dante watched over her, heart full of love and protection, knowing that their life together had only just begun—and that no challenge, not work, not Olivia, nor anyone else, would ever come between them.