Chapter 95

Ava, clad in a vibrant sundress that hugged her baby bump, twirled a lock of her blonde hair as she gazed longingly out the window of the sprawling mansion. The desire to break free from the confinements of the estate gripped her fiercely that morning. She yearned for a change of scenery, an escape from the opulent yet stifling walls.

As she rummaged through her closet, sifting through the array of dresses and blouses, Maggie with a warm smile and wise eyes, shuffled into the room. " Where might you be off to, dear Ava? " Maggie inquired, her eyes glinting with curiosity.

" The shopping mall " Ava replied, slipping into her favorite pair of comfortable sandals. " I just need a breather, you know? "

Maggie's wrinkled face lit up. " Mind if I tag along, lass? Haven't been to the mall in ages. It'll do me good "

" Of course, Maggie! I'd love the company " Ava beamed, grabbing her purse and heading downstairs.

Before they left, Maggie hesitated, her eyes filled with concern. " Should I inform Alex that we're stepping out? "

Ava's brows furrowed momentarily. " Why bother? He's at work, Maggie. Always buried in those reports and files " she replied with a hint of frustration.

" But, my dear, he asked me to keep an eye on you, for the baby's sake " Maggie's voice trembled with worry.

Ava waved her hand dismissively. " I'm fine, honestly. It's just a quick trip to the mall "

The mansion's front door opened as the designated driver, attuned to Ava's whims, awaited their departure. With the driver courteously holding the door open, Ava and Maggie settled into the plush interior of the waiting car, ready for their impromptu outing.

The car glided smoothly along the tree-lined streets, eventually pulling up to the bustling mall entrance. Ava's eyes sparkled with excitement as she beheld the hive of activity—the vibrant stores, the energetic crowd, and the kaleidoscope of colors.

" It's been too long " Ava murmured, her gaze flitting from shop to shop.

Maggie chuckled softly, her eyes crinkling at the corners. " Let's make the most of it, dear. But do be cautious, won't you? "

Ava nodded, her smile unwavering, and linked her arm with Maggie's as they ventured into the retail wonderland, ready to explore and indulge in the freedom that awaited beyond the confines of the mansion.

Amidst the lively buzz of the mall, Ava and Maggie strolled arm in arm, relishing the newfound freedom. They wandered through aisles adorned with dazzling displays, the air filled with the scent of perfumes and the echoes of chatter from excited shoppers.

Ava's eyes danced as she explored the array of baby clothes, her fingers delicately tracing the soft fabrics. " Wouldn't this look adorable on the little one? " she remarked, holding up a tiny, patterned onesie for Maggie's approval.

Maggie chuckled warmly. " Absolutely charming, dear. The baby will be the talk of the town in that " Her eyes were full of mischief as she teased.

As they ventured deeper into the mall, Ava's attention was drawn to a display of accessories. She paused, fingers grazing over a collection of elegant scarves. " Oh, Alex would love these " she mused aloud, her thoughts drifting momentarily to her devoted partner.

Maggie observed Ava with a tender smile, understanding the blend of excitement and concern etched across her face. " You miss him, don't you? " she inquired softly.

Ava nodded, a wistful expression crossing her features. " A little. But it's nice to have some time away, you know? To feel... normal "

Maggie nodded in understanding, her gaze filled with empathy for Ava's longing for both independence and companionship.

Their excursion continued, punctuated by shared laughter and meaningful conversations. Yet, amidst the joyous atmosphere, a shadow of unease lingered in Maggie's eyes. She discreetly kept an eye on Ava, mindful of the responsibility Alex had entrusted her with.

As they made their way to a quaint café nestled in a corner of the mall, Maggie's concern resurfaced. " Are you feeling alright, dear? " she asked, her eyes scanning Ava's slightly fatigued expression.

Ava nodded, a faint smile gracing her lips. " I'm fine, Maggie. Just a bit tired, I suppose "

Maggie's caring gaze remained fixed on Ava, her maternal instincts urging her to ensure Ava's well-being above all else.

Their excursion drew to a close as they headed back towards the awaiting car. The drive back to the mansion was filled with contented silence, both Ava and Maggie lost in their own thoughts.

As they approached the grand estate, Ava turned to Maggie with a grateful smile. " Thanks for coming along, Maggie. It was wonderful to have your company "

Maggie patted Ava's hand affectionately. " Anytime, dear. Just promise me you'll take care of yourself, especially for the little one's sake "

Ava nodded earnestly, touched by Maggie's unwavering concern. " I will, Maggie. I promise "

Ava stepped out of the car, feeling a sense of rejuvenation from her brief escapade. As she entered the mansion, she couldn't shake off the warmth of the day spent outside its confining walls. The memory of the mall, the laughter shared, and the genuine care from Maggie lingered, infusing her with a renewed sense of joy and appreciation for the world beyond the mansion's opulent facade.

She impatiently waited for Alex's arrival as she sat on the couch in the living room. She wasn't sure for how long she kept waiting before she dozed off afterwards.

Alex came back from work, looking tired and sleepy. But the moment he entered the living room, his eyes were wide awake as he could perceive the flowery scent of Ava strongly. He looked around in search of her and finally found her asleep on the couch.

His mouth curled up in a soft smile at the sight and he went to her. He shook her gently " Babe? " But it didn't work because she was fast asleep. Then, he picked her up and made his way to their bedroom. A soft sigh escaped through her lips and she snuggled up against him, searching for warmth