Chapter 75

~ Elara’s POV

Rufus's gaze held mine, an intensity that both warmed and flustered me. My mind raced, searching for a way to break the spell. Stealing a glance at the darkening sky, I blurted out the first thing that came to mind.

"Hey, remember you mentioned a hidden park earlier? I'd love to see it," I said, my voice a touch too eager.

Rufus blinked, seemingly surprised by my sudden change of subject. "The park, yeah," he said, a thoughtful frown creasing his forehead. "Are you sure you're up for it? We've been on our feet all day, and with…your condition, you might be tired,”

"Don't worry about me, Rufus," I said, trying to sound chipper. "Remember when you were always nagging me to get some exercise? Well, consider this payback,” I winked playfully. "Besides," I added, placing a hand on my still-flat stomach, "four months pregnant means I need to stay active, right?"

Rufus wasn't convinced. He furrowed his brow, his gaze lingering on my face with a mixture of concern and protective