Lisa didn't sleep that night.
She sat in bed, staring at the ceiling, her fingers trembling over her phone screen. She wanted to call someone — Zia, maybe. But how could she?
No one could know. Not yet.
She was pregnant.
With her unbiological brother's child.
A man who was still engaged — at least officially.
And yet, every time she thought about that night... the way she clung to Alex, the way he held her like she was the only thing left in his world — she didn't feel regret.
She felt... pain.
Pain that he never said anything afterward.
Pain that he pretended nothing happened.
Pain that she had to carry everything alone.
⸻
Meanwhile, Mia stood calmly in front of Alex in the study, dressed neatly, her eyes strong.
"I've spoken to my parents," she said. "I've called off the engagement."
Alex looked up sharply from his desk.
"You what?"
"I should've done it a long time ago," Mia said. "We both know we were never truly in love. It was convenient, but not real. And you... your heart was never with me."
Alex stood, frustrated. "You don't understand—"
"I do," Mia interrupted. "More than anyone. I understand what you feel for her."
Alex's face went pale.
Mia gave him a bittersweet smile. "I'm setting you free. But whether you destroy Lisa or protect her from here on out... is now your choice."
⸻
The next day, Eli stopped by the kindergarten unexpectedly. Lisa was helping a little boy wash paint off his hands when she saw him by the door.
"Eli?" she blinked.
He smiled warmly. "I was nearby. Thought I'd bring you lunch. You haven't answered any of Zia's texts lately."
Lisa hesitated, then nodded. "I'm sorry... things have just been... overwhelming."
Eli studied her face quietly. "You look pale. Have you seen a doctor?"
Lisa looked down at her hands, her chest tightening. "I... might go soon."
There was a pause. Then Eli, in his gentle, protective tone, said:
"You know you can tell me anything, right?"
Lisa's throat tightened. But all she could do was smile and nod.
⸻
Later that night, Lisa sat alone on a park bench with her hand over her stomach, whispering:
"I don't know what will happen to us... but I'll protect you, little one. No matter what."
She didn't hear the footsteps approaching behind her.
"Lisa."
She turned — and there was Alex, standing under the streetlight, looking at her like he hadn't slept in days.
"We need to talk."