Chapter 1298:
âUnderstood.â
With that matter settled, Rhys felt a slight ease of his burdens. He returned to his tent, pulled back the flap, and found Harlee at the computer, seemingly busy with something.
âWhy didnât you rest a bit more?â Rhys asked with a frown.
Harlee glanced up at him, feeling a bit uneasy as she had just woken up. âI was sorting out some plans for whatâs next,â she explained.
Rhys picked up a nearby wooden stool and sat down next to her, gently taking the laptop from her. âJust tell me what you need typed,â he said.
âIâve rested a lot already,â Harlee said, reaching for the laptop. But noticing Rhysâ increasingly stern look, she relented with a laugh. âOkay, Iâll dictate, you type.â
She had already felt slightly uneasy from the previous nightâs ordeal, and now jumping straight into work after resting just a bit only added to her unease. Had she not been pregnant, she might have indulged in a bit more fussiness. She figured it was best to relent to Rhysâ demand.
Rhysâ expression softened upon hearing her agreement. He glanced down at the laptop screen, noting the detailed plans displayed there. âYouâre planning to hand over all these responsibilities here?â he inquired. Harlee had laid out comprehensive arrangements for a three-month renovation project on the island.
Rhys looked at her intently, trying to discern her intentions.
âYes,â Harlee replied nonchalantly, her remorse about her recent overexertion evident. âIâve decided to go back and focus on my pregnancy. The baby seems to be making its displeasure known these last few days.â
âIt wouldnât dare,â Rhys said sternly. He was the epitome of a protective husband, unwilling to let even his own child challenge his wife.
Harlee chuckled and playfully tapped his forehead. âDonât be too hard on our baby!â Her tone was gentle, glowing with a motherâs affection.
Seeing this, Rhysâ expression faltered for a moment, recalling his recent conversation with Noel about possibly terminating the pregnancy. But he knew Harlee would likely oppose such a decision.
Misinterpreting his concern, Harlee teased him by pinching his nose. âHave you always been this jealous? Even of our own child?â
Rhys averted his gaze, observing her tender touch on her abdomen. He stayed quiet for a while, then with renewed assertiveness, he said, âYes, I admit Iâm jealous! Just remember, I come first, no matter what.â
Harlee laughed heartily at his declaration. She affectionately cradled his face in her hands, saying seriously, âAlright, I promise, youâll always come first.â
Seizing the moment, Rhys tilted her chin upward, locking eyes with her. âYou better not be lying to me!â
Harleeâs eyelashes fluttered as she met his gaze, silent. Something in his demeanor suggested he was keeping something from her.
âYou canât sit still. If I donât secure some assurance, youâll definitely prioritize the baby over me!â Rhys teased, his thumb gently caressing her chin, his tone playfully alluring.
As Rhys spoke, all traces of suspicion faded from Harleeâs mind. She gazed up at his perfect features, threw her arms around his neck, and nestled her head against his chest. His heartbeats, strong and steady, resonated in her ears, providing a sense of grounding and comfort.
Feeling their heartbeats nearly align, Harlee replied, âRhys, no matter the number of our children or how fondly I cherish them, youâll always be my number one!â He was the person she could never imagine being without.
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