Lucas woke up early, his body instinctively adjusting to his usual schedule. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, he turned his head slightly to the side. Bella was still asleep, her breathing soft and steady. Rachel, nestled between them, had her tiny head resting on Bella's arm. A faint smile tugged at his lips at the peaceful sight.
Carefully, he slipped out of bed, making sure not to disturb them. Grabbing his clothes, he stepped into the bathroom for a quick shower. The warm water did little to ease the strange pull in his chest—this quiet, domestic moment was something he hadn't expected in his life, but now, it felt like the most natural thing in the world.
Once dressed, he walked back to the room, his eyes falling on Bella still curled up in bed. For a brief moment, he debated letting her sleep longer, but he knew she'd insist on helping Rachel get ready. Leaning down, he brushed a few strands of hair away from her face.
"Bella, wake up," he murmured, his voice gentle yet firm.
She stirred, blinking sleepily before meeting his gaze. "Hmm?"
"It's morning. You should wake up." She yawned, stretching slightly before sitting up. Rachel was still fast asleep. With a soft chuckle, Bella ran a hand through her hair. "I'll wake her up in a minute."
Lucas nodded, watching as she shifted into 'mom mode.' It was a sight he was growing fond of.
Bella leaned down, pressing a light kiss on Rachel's forehead before nudging her gently. "Sweetheart, wake up. You have school."
Rachel whined, burying her face into the pillow. Lucas smirked, stepping in to assist. "If you don't wake up now, I'll eat your share of breakfast," he teased.
That got her attention. Rachel's eyes fluttered open, and she pouted. "Nooo, Dada!"
Laughing, Bella guided Rachel through her morning routine—brushing her teeth, changing into her school uniform, and combing her hair neatly. Meanwhile, Lucas left them to it, heading downstairs to check on breakfast.
Once Rachel was ready, Bella took her turn in the bathroom, whole Rachel packed her bag. The warm water felt soothing as she let it wash away the last traces of sleep. After finishing, she reached for the lilac floral midi dress she had chosen for the day.
As she adjusted the fabric over her body, her eyes flickered to the mirror. Her fingers unconsciously rested on her abdomen. It wasn't noticeable yet, not unless someone looked closely, but she could feel the small changes. A soft, almost uncertain smile crossed her lips. This tiny life growing inside her… it still felt surreal.
With a deep breath, she turned away from the mirror and stepped out, ready to start the day.
Bella stepped out of the bedroom, smoothing down the soft fabric of her dress as she made her way to the dinning table. The scent of breakfast filled the air—warm, buttery toast, eggs, and something else that smelled rich and inviting.
Lucas had his back to her, standing by the stove, plating up the food he had just finished cooking. His sleeves were rolled up, his movements efficient and natural, as if he did this every day.
Rachel was already seated at the table, swinging her legs excitedly. "Mama, Dada made pancakes again today!" she announced with a big grin.
Bella smiled and walked closer, but as soon as Lucas turned around, his usual composed expression faltered. His eyes traveled over her figure, lingering just a second too long before he quickly schooled his face.
The lilac floral dress hugged her frame in just the right way—not overly revealing, but enough to make him curse internally. Her little bump was visible. His eyes lingered just a bit on her curves before he got startled by Rachel's clap and her praises for her mother. He clenched his jaw, forcing his gaze back to her face.
"You look… nice," he said, voice slightly rougher than usual.
Bella tilted her head and pouted looking at her dress. "Just nice?"
Lucas exhaled through his nose, dragging a hand through his hair. "Too nice." His eyes darkened slightly as he muttered under his breath, "And I have to go to the damn office today."
Bella blinked before a small, amused smile formed on her lips. "Did you say something?"
Lucas didn't respond immediately, just pulled out a chair for her with a resigned sigh. "Nothing come and sit. Breakfast is ready."
Bella frowned but did as told, and soon the three of them settled in for breakfast. Rachel was happily munching on her pancake, while Bella took a bite of her toast, humming in approval.
"This is really good," she admitted. Lucas raised an eyebrow. "You sound surprised."
"Well… I never thought CEOs could cook before I met you."
"Why? We need to eat too right?" He smirked, leaning back slightly.
Bella rolled her eyes but couldn't stop the smile that tugged at her lips. She focused on eating, trying to ignore the way Lucas occasionally glanced at her. But who can tell her that he was regretting his decision to go to work today.
After breakfast, Bella got up to pack Rachel's lunch. Lucas watched her move around the kitchen, easily finding everything she needed. The fabric swirled around her legs as she turned to face him.
"You could've let me do that," he pointed out. Bella shook her head. "It's not a big deal. I've always packed Rachel's lunch."
"How is your morning sickness?" He asked when he got reminded of the previous day. "I'm not feeling it right now. Actually I'm feeling quite happy today." She replied him continuing with her packing.
Lucas didn't say anything. He just leaned against the counter, watching her with a contemplative look in his eyes.
Once the lunch was packed, Rachel grabbed her little backpack and ran to Lucas, arms raised. "Dada! Time to go!"
Lucas scooped her up effortlessly, casting one last glance at Bella. "I'll drop her off and be back soon. Take care of yourself."
Bella nodded, offering Rachel a warm smile. "Be good in school, sweetheart."
"I will!" Rachel grinned, waving enthusiastically. "Drive safely." She looked in his way and he nodded in response.
With that, Lucas carried Rachel outside, leaving Bella alone in the house.