Chapter 185

ROBERT'S POV

Ariana's words hung in the air, their weight sinking into me. Pregnant. She was pregnant. I couldn't help it; I pulled her into my arms, holding her tightly as joy bubbled up inside me.

“I can't believe it,” I whispered, kissing the top of her head. “I'm so happy, Ari.”

As I held her, memories of the past rushed back. The day we lost our baby still haunted me. It was my fault. I had been reckless, and she had paid the price. I had never been able to forgive myself for what happened that day.

The pain and guilt I felt back then came flooding back, but I pushed them aside. This was a new chance. I had to focus on the future, not the past. I had another chance to do it right now and I was going to seize it.

“I promise I’ll do everything to protect you and our baby,” I said, my voice thick with emotion. “You won't go through that pain again.”

Ariana pulled back slightly, looking up at me with those beautiful eyes of hers. “I know, Rob,” she said softly. “I believe you.”

Her t