Chapter 291: Eight Weeks In

The blizzard raged outside. Cecilia awoke from a long dream, the details hazy, only the sound of whispering voices remaining: “Is she pregnant?” “Yes, she’s already eight weeks in.”

Elena, after hearing the doctor's confirmation, regarded Cecilia with less anger, a hint of pleasant surprise replacing it. Eight weeks ago—two months prior—Cecilia had been living with Nathaniel. She was carrying Nathaniel's child.

"Dr. Lazlo, please take the utmost care of her, and especially the child," Elena implored. "Nothing must happen to them."

"Don't worry, Madam Elena," the doctor replied.

But Elena could worry. Her son remained critically ill in the ICU, his fate precarious. The grandson in Cecilia's womb—she couldn't risk any complications. Leaving the ward, she went to visit Nathaniel.

Summoning her strength, Cecilia pried open her eyes, her surroundings slowly coming into focus. Her hand instinctively rested on her abdomen. Her gaze fell to her bandaged leg.

"Ms. Smith, are you awake?" the nurse asked, noticing Cecilia stirring as she prepared to change the dressing.

Cecilia's lips were parched. "My child…"

"Your child is fine," the nurse reassured her. "You sustained superficial injuries, though your leg injury is more serious. Thankfully, Mr. Rainsworth shielded you; otherwise, the consequences would have been unthinkable." The passenger seat, she explained, was the most dangerous position in a car accident.

Immediately, Cecilia asked, "How is Nathaniel?" During the operation, she'd vaguely heard the doctor mention he might not survive.

"Mr. Rainsworth is still in the ICU. The situation is critical," the nurse replied.

Cecilia tried to sit up, but the nurse stopped her. "You won't be able to see him now. Rest first."

Feeling dizzy, Cecilia lay back down. Vivian and Sven arrived upon hearing of her awakening. Sven had been close to the car during the accident, but unable to prevent it. He'd subsequently launched an investigation into the responsible party.

Vivian examined Cecilia. "Ceci, how are you feeling? Any discomfort?"

Cecilia shook her head. "I'm fine."

Sven stepped forward. "The driver has been apprehended. He's known as Mr. Reynolds abroad. He sought revenge against Nathaniel." He explained that Nathaniel had taken a job from Reynolds overseas.

Cecilia finally understood. Nathaniel hadn't let those people go after Simon had teased her. Her eyes reflected a multitude of emotions.

Vivian took her hand. "Ceci, your divorce was scheduled for today. But after Ernest informed the court of your situation, they've stayed the proceedings."

Cecilia showed no emotion. "I see. Whatever you do, don't let Martha and the children know about this."

Vivian nodded vigorously. "Don't worry; I've already told Mr. Sven."

Sven stood guard outside Cecilia's ward while Vivian stayed with her, listening as Cecilia recounted Elena's apparent knowledge of the pregnancy.

"What should we do?" Cecilia asked, her head throbbing slightly. "It depends on whether Nathaniel wakes up."

Vivian whispered, "I secretly checked the ICU. It's surrounded by bodyguards; no one can get in. I tried asking about Nathaniel's condition, but the doctors wouldn't say anything." The information, she added, certainly couldn't be casually revealed.

"Vivian, Sven, you should rest. I'll call if anything happens," Cecilia said, deciding to rest.

"But you're alone…"

"The doctor said my injuries are superficial. I just need to rest tonight; I can be discharged tomorrow," Cecilia explained.

"All right, then."

Vivian left. Sven remained on guard outside.

Alone, Cecilia watched the falling snow, lost in thought. If Nathaniel died, she knew she would never find peace.