Raegan shook her head.
âNothing,â she replied.
She couldnât explain why she had mistaken someone else for Mitchel, nor did she want to linger on the thought.
With recent troubles concerning her mother, Raegan realized it had been a while since she last thought about Mitchel.
Perhaps that was a good sign.
She was experiencing the subtle sensation of slowly forgetting someone.
This gradual disappearance wasnât painful but caused an occasional twinge in her heart, like when she glimpsed a figure on the street that reminded her of him.
By the time they reached the restaurant, Raegan had begun to sweat slightly.
Stefan considerately offered her a napkin to dab her forehead before they sat down at a table overflowing with seafood dishes.
Stefan knew Raegan adored seafood, and Aurora offered a plethora of choices.
However, due to her pregnancy, Raegan had become more selective with her diet.
The eveningâs menu featured safe, nutritious seafood options suitable for pregnant women to enjoy in moderation, all carefully chosen by Stefan after extensive reading.
Hearing this, Raegan eagerly began eating.
Some dishes, particularly those with shells, were difficult to handle, so Stefan assisted her by peeling several shrimp and promptly heaped more onto her plate.
Feeling a bit self-conscious, Raegan protested, âStefan, focus on your own meal.
I have plenty here.
â
Yet, Stefan continued to serve her, saying, âEat as much as you wish today.
You wonât have this luxury during your confinement.
â
Raeganâs due date was just two weeks away.
They faced a significant dilemma.
Allowing Raegan to return home for the birth raised concerns.
If she faced any complications, they would be powerless to help.
However, being in a place surrounded by medical staff guaranteed more security for the childbirth.
The matter regarding breaking into Daveyâs manor had to be postponed further.
Seeing Raegan enjoy her meal and appear contented made Stefan smile.
After reflecting for a moment, he decided to express his feelings.
âRaegan, after spending this time together, Iâve realized my feelings for you have deepened from simple affection to true love.
â
Stunned by his sudden declaration, Raegan could only stammer, âStefan, youâ¦â
She was at a loss for words, recalling the last time he had spoken so candidly back in Ardlens.
Back then, his words had seemed more about needing a partner for marriage than expressing true love.
Today, however, his tone was serious as he confessed his feelings.
Raegan sensed that Stefanâs confession was genuine, which immediately made her feel burdened.
To ease her discomfort, Stefan clarified, âWhat I mean is, Iâd like the opportunity to win your heart.
Youâre free to say no, but I want to give it a try.
â
He paused for a bit and added playfully, âFirst, can I brag about myself a little?â
This lighter tone helped relax Raegan, prompting her to smile and respond, âOkay.
â