Chapter 44

Natalie

I'm sitting inside Noah's car with a blanket wrapped around me as we drive past the city light. My heart feels heavy, like it's been replaced with a rock that's now weighing me down.

"I will probably still marry Alaric, but... He better apologize for not being here, or do you think I'm silly for being angry over this?" I sigh while looking out through the window. "I can't tell anymore..."

Noah glances at me briefly, then focuses on the road again. His hand is on the stick, veiny and tanned with a watch on it. I sometimes suspect I have a hand fetish when it comes to Noah.

"No, I don't think you're being silly. You went through something traumatic and lost the baby that you wanted. I also don't think anything that awakens emotions should just be brushed aside. You're hurting, and your husband should be here for you, Natalie."

I'm fighting tears again. Noah is so gentle when he speaks, and somehow, it starts to feel okay to cry in his presence. It removes the lead from my stom