"It's going to be okay, it always is," she whispered to the baby before getting into the bathtub with the intention to relax.
In the warm water, Adele's body was enveloped, providing temporary relief to her restless mind. As she felt the water caress her skin, she closed her eyes and tried to block out all the worries that plagued her. This moment of tranquility was a necessary break from everything happening around her.
Adele placed her hands on her belly, gently stroking it. She could feel the baby's gentle movements in her womb, a constant reminder of the life forming within her. That unique connection between mother and child brought a sense of purpose and renewed strength.
"We'll face all of this together," Adele whispered to the baby. "No matter what happens out there, you and I are on this journey together."
As the water relaxed her tense muscles, Adele began to envision a future full of hope. She knew things wouldn't be easy, but she was determined to protect her child and create a loving, stable environment for them. She had talent, determination, and a strong support network around her.
After some time in the bathtub, Adele got out, wrapping herself in a soft towel and embracing her own body. She returned to her room and dressed comfortably, deciding to spend the rest of the day in her countryside retreat. It was a place where she could find peace and serenity away from the city lights and the demands of the fashion industry.
Walking through the estate's gardens, Adele breathed in the fresh air and felt the sun warm her skin. She looked at the horizon, letting her mind wander. She thought about the decisions she had ahead, about how she would deal with Heitor and the growing public exposure. She was determined to stay true to herself and the values she had cultivated throughout her life when she heard commotion near the main gate. She feared being discovered by the media once again, so she walked toward the noise to understand what was happening. She was surprised to see cameras, walking briskly and with broad steps, driven by discomfort and anger.
"I remember telling you that it had happened, but it was just that moment. What are you doing in my house? How did you find me?"
"I thought you'd invite me in, have a drink, and chat a bit. I'm in town and decided to drop by to visit an old friend. But it seems once again I'm not welcome in her life."
"Don't make me look like a bad person, Robert. I have a feeling you weren't just passing through, and this visit is intentional. Come on, just tell me what you want."
"Not even offering a glass of water?"
"Are you thirsty?"
"Yes," Robert replied, walking towards her, kissing her cheek, waiting for her to come in with him. "I heard pregnant women get really stressed out. You, on top of being stressed, are the most beautiful pregnant woman I've ever seen. Let's talk. Tell me about the speculations. They say you're five months along. Is it true?"
Adele realized she didn't have much of a choice but to let him in. Robert was determined to make that visit. She believed the sooner she entered, the sooner he'd leave. She led him to the living room while her security stayed outside.
He looked handsome, as if he hadn't aged a day since the last time. His body was still wonderful, toned and fit. Robert's lips remained alluring, reminding Adele of his taste and his skills in intimate matters, making her blush. She hadn't been with anyone since the last time she had been with him. She felt sexually deprived, but she would try to restrain herself. The situation was now more difficult and different. She was pregnant and needed to maintain control and self-discipline, even though she admitted that Robert had been the most attractive man she had been with.
"How did you find me?" Adele asked, furrowing her brow.
"I never lost sight of you, never took my eyes off you. I was just waiting for the right moment to see you again. A woman like you is unforgettable. I thought I needed time and space, and I decided to give you that, but I've always been keeping tabs."
"That day," she replied, smiling and changing the subject completely, "I'm grateful you saved my life. On that day, you not only saved me but also changed my life. However, as you can see now, things are different," she said, pointing to her belly, showing her pregnancy with a beautiful maternal smile on her face. "I'm not open to the type of relationship you're looking for. In fact, I hope to meet men who don't keep messaging me after I've turned them down. It's very strange to me. It gives the impression that you don't have control over my life and that I have no freedom. I kindly ask you to stop."
"You're funny. I don't believe that what we experienced in that room was a finished moment, because when I look at you, I desire you in such an intense way that I can't explain. I have a hard time controlling myself. Breathing the same air as you, feeling your scent, drives me crazy. I think about the taste of your lips and the soft texture of your skin all the time. I desire you with all my might, and I believe something like this shouldn't be happening only to me. But I came from afar just to hear the news. You seem like you're not interested."
"News?" Adele asked, puzzled.