21

Charlie's tears flowed as he read Elijah's letter, his heart aching.

"Charlie, hope you're awake now," the letter began. "I wanted to say goodbye in person, but you were unconscious for two full days, and I had to leave. I was to stay here three months to win you over, but my presence only caused you problems."

Elijah's words pierced Charlie's soul.

"I've always loved you, Charlie, from the day I first saw you at the Silver Market. I booked you to be mine, but the clerk said you were only available at 18. I waited, and on that day, I purchased you. But they were cautious, and I missed you."

Charlie's eyes widened, stunned.

"Even though it hurts me that you're not mine, I'm happy Xander loves you, and you love him. I've always envied how he cherished and put you first; that should have been me, but maybe later."

The letter continued, revealing a shocking truth.

"Congratulations, Charlie; the doctor said you're pregnant."

Charlie's hand instinctively touched his belly, still flat but now filled with promise.

"I wish I could congratulate you in person, but it wasn't possible. I had to leave and take Cloud away; he was causing trouble."

The letter concluded with a heartfelt goodbye.

"Goodbye, my love. Maybe in the near future, we shall meet. Take care."

Charlie's tears dried, replaced by a radiant smile.

He was pregnant.

Xander's child grew within him.

Joy and wonder filled Charlie's heart.

Drake and Lucas burst into the room, their faces lit with warm smiles. Charlie's radiant grin greeted them, infectious and joyful.

"Congratulations!" Lucas exclaimed, rushing to Charlie's side. "We heard the amazing news! You're going to be a fantastic father."

"I'm happy I'm not the only one pregnant in this boring palace," Lucas added with a chuckle, rubbing his own belly.

Charlie's smile widened, his eyes sparkling. "I know, right? I'm still in shock."

Drake stayed for 30 minutes, sharing stories and laughter before departing. Lucas lingered, rekindling their connection.

As they gossiped, Charlie's happiness blossomed. Lucas's vivacity was contagious, lifting Charlie's spirits.

"I've missed you, Charlie," Lucas said, his voice sincere. "You've been so quiet and lifeless lately. It's wonderful to see you smiling again."

Charlie's heart swelled with gratitude. "I've missed you too, Lucas. You always know how to make me laugh."

Hours passed, filled with laughter and reminiscences. As Lucas left, Charlie's joy lingered.

Later, Xander returned with a steaming tray of food, cautiously silent. He set the meal on the bedside table, his eyes watching Charlie.

Charlie ate, savoring each bite. Xander's culinary skills were exceptional, and the flavors danced on his tongue.

Xander cleared the dishes and prepared a warm bath for Charlie. As Charlie washed, Xander stood guard by the door, his presence reassuring.

After Charlie dressed, Xander disappeared, only to return with supper. They ate together, the silence between them comfortable.

As night fell, Charlie decided to sleep. Xander tucked him in, his touch gentle.

"The birth will be in five months," Xander whispered, his voice low. "We'll prepare everything."

Charlie nodded, his eyelids drooping.

The silence between them grew, a palpable presence.

Charlie began to feel the weight of Xander's quiet, his emotions swirling. He longed for Xander's words, his reassurance.