Seventy Six

CHAPTER 76

That morning, the sunlight streamed softly through the large window of Antonio and Cassandra’s bedroom. Cassandra woke up earlier than usual. She was still reminiscing about the warmth of the previous night, but a sense of curiosity crept into her heart. Antonio, who usually woke up early for work, was still sound asleep beside her. His peaceful face made Cassandra smile slightly.

When Antonio finally woke up, he looked at Cassandra tenderly. “Morning, my love. Have you been up long?”

Cassandra shook her head with a smile. “Just now.”

Antonio sat up, tidied his slightly messy hair, and suddenly seemed to remember something. With a burst of energy, he got out of bed and walked toward the large wardrobe in the corner of the room.

“What are you doing?” Cassandra asked, her tone puzzled, as she followed Antonio’s movements with her eyes.

Antonio didn’t answer. He opened one of the wardrobe doors, reached inside, and pulled out a large maroon box decorated with a gold ribbon. His face lit up with enthusiasm as he carried the box and placed it on the bed.

“What is this?” Cassandra asked, her voice full of curiosity.

Antonio smiled mysteriously. “It’s for you,” he said, handing her the box.

Cassandra slowly opened the box, her curiosity mounting. As the lid was lifted, her eyes widened at the sight. Inside the box were various baby items, including tiny clothes, little shoes, and soft toys. There was also a small handwritten note from Antonio.

With trembling hands, Cassandra read the note:

"To Cassandra, the mother of our soon-to-be-born child. I want you to know how grateful I am to have you both in my life. Thank you for giving me the chance to become a father. I love you, Cass."

Tears streamed down Cassandra’s cheeks, but this time they weren’t from sadness; they were from overwhelming joy. She looked at Antonio with eyes full of love.

“Antonio... this is so beautiful. Thank you,” she said, hugging him tightly. For the first time, she felt completely accepted and loved unconditionally.

Antonio returned her hug, gently stroking her back. “I just want you to know how precious you are to my life, Cass.”

As they released their embrace, Cassandra suddenly remembered how she had felt previously when receiving a gift from Antonio. She chuckled softly and said, “You know, I felt disgusted when you gave me lingerie that time. But this time... I truly love your gift.”

Antonio laughed along with her, his eyes sparkling. “I’m glad to hear that. I’ve learned from my mistakes, Cass.”

After breakfast, Antonio proposed something that surprised Cassandra. “How about we go to a baby supply store? We can start preparing everything for our child.”

Cassandra, initially taken aback, eventually nodded enthusiastically. “That’s a great idea! I’ll get ready.”

Cassandra chose a simple white dress and added a denim jacket to protect herself from the cold weather. Antonio, as usual, looked neat in a light blue shirt and a black blazer. They left the mansion and got into a luxurious car waiting out front. Ben, Antonio’s personal secretary and driver, sat in the front seat, ready to take them.

In the car, the atmosphere was calm at first. Cassandra enjoyed the view of snow-covered streets while Antonio busied himself with his phone. However, Ben began to open a conversation.

“Mr. Antonio, there are several important documents you haven’t signed yet. I’m concerned that our work will pile up,” Ben said, his tone laced with what sounded like sarcasm.

Cassandra turned, feeling slightly uncomfortable with Ben’s tone. She knew Antonio’s recent attention to her had made some people around him feel envious or disturbed.

However, Antonio responded casually. “Ben, there will always be work. But right now, my priority is Cassandra and our baby.”

Ben paused for a moment, then replied in a flat tone, “Of course, Sir. I just want to ensure everything runs smoothly.”

Cassandra smiled faintly, feeling relieved at how Antonio handled the situation. She squeezed Antonio’s hand gently, offering him silent support.

The trip to the baby store felt warmer despite the cold weather outside. Cassandra grew more certain that Antonio’s presence by her side was the greatest strength she had. She couldn’t wait to embark on this new adventure with the man who had transformed her life.

Upon arriving at the store, they were greeted by friendly staff. Cassandra was enthusiastic as she selected various baby supplies, from cribs to tiny clothes with cute patterns. Antonio followed behind her, helping choose while occasionally offering his opinions.

“How about this one?” Antonio asked, showing a set of baby clothes in pastel blue.

Cassandra nodded with a smile. “That’s lovely.”

They spent almost two hours in the store, ensuring every need was met. Antonio even bought additional toys despite Cassandra saying they weren’t necessary yet. “I just want to make sure everything is perfect,” Antonio explained with a laugh.

As they left the store, their hands full of shopping bags, Cassandra felt her heart grow light. She knew their journey as new parents would be full of challenges, but with Antonio by her side, she felt ready to face anything.

“Thank you, Antonio,” she said sincerely as they got back into the car.

Antonio turned to her, gazing at her lovingly. “I should be the one thanking you, Cass. You’ve brought new meaning to my life.”

Cassandra held Antonio’s hand tightly, letting the moment etch itself into her memory. This was the beginning of a new chapter filled with hope and love.

On the way home, the atmosphere in the car was calm and comfortable. Cassandra rested her head on Antonio’s shoulder while Ben stayed focused on driving. However, the peace was suddenly shattered by chaos.

A black car sped toward them at high speed from the opposite direction. Ben tried to swerve, but the collision was unavoidable. A loud crash jolted their vehicle, throwing Cassandra and Antonio against their seatbelts.

“Cass! Are you okay?” Antonio shouted in a panic, his hand immediately reaching for Cassandra.

“I... I’m okay,” Cassandra replied, though her voice trembled. She tried to calm herself, ensuring she wasn’t seriously injured.

Ben, who also seemed shaken, quickly sprang into action. He got out of the car, assessed the situation swiftly, then opened the back door to help Antonio and Cassandra out.

“Mr. Antonio, Ms. Cassandra, we need to get out of here immediately. This car isn’t safe,” Ben said firmly.

Antonio assisted Cassandra out of the car, ensuring she wasn’t hurt. Ben efficiently guided them away from the vehicle, which was starting to emit thin smoke.

“Is everyone okay?” Ben asked, checking Antonio and Cassandra again.

Antonio nodded. “We’re fine, thank you, Ben. You acted so quickly.”

Cassandra, though still slightly shaken, felt relieved to see everyone was safe. She reached for Ben’s hand with gratitude. “Thank you, Ben. You truly saved us.”

Ben simply nodded, his expression serious. “It’s my duty, Ma’am.”

Soon after, help arrived. A replacement car was sent by Antonio’s security team, and they continued their journey home with mixed feelings. Despite the harrowing experience, they were grateful to be safe.

Back at the mansion, Cassandra sat on the sofa, hugging Antonio tightly. The incident made her realize even more how precious their togetherness was.

“I don’t know what would’ve happened if we hadn’t been safe,” Cassandra whispered, tears streaming down her cheeks.

Antonio held her closer, providing comfort. “I will always protect you, Cass. You and our child are everything to me.”

That night, they rested with a sense of relief, grateful for their safety. Although the day had been full of unexpected events, their love grew stronger, binding them in a commitment to always care for and protect each other.