A Second Chance at Forever novel (Eleanor and Bernard)

Chapter 1390

“Eleanor.” Just as she turned towards the door, Bernard had called out to her.

Eleanor spun around, her eyes locking with Bernard’s, which had involuntarily dropped to her swelling belly.

“Can I… may I touch the baby?” he asked, his voice barely above a murmur.

Throughout her pregnancy, he had been absent, his hands never having the chance to feel the life they had created stirring within her. Should she allow it just this once?

Following his gaze, Eleanor looked down at the gentle curve of her abdomen and gave a slight nod. She couldn’t find it in her heart to deny him.

With a cautious reverence, Bernard extended a trembling finger and let it rest gently against her belly, feeling the round firmness beneath. In that touch, the jagged edges of his heart seemed to soften.

Witnessing the tender emotion in Bernard’s eyes, Eleanor was suddenly reminded of Cedric, holding a children’s book close, narrating tales to the unborn child inside Hailey’s womb.

She too wished for her child’s father to share a moment, to speak a word or two, so that when they parted, the regret wouldn’t be as sharp. Overcome with emotion, she found herself asking Bernard, “Would you… like to talk to the baby?”

unsure of what to say but cherishing the opportunity nonetheless. He gently caressed

speaking, he looked up anxiously at Eleanor, “Can

“It’s nearly six months now. There’s movement. Sometimes, when I talk, he’ll stretch out a little hand or foot, give

first time, was unfamiliar with these miracles. Hearing about the

emotion.

isn’t he moving now?”

gently, searching for the movements Eleanor spoke

wasn’t accustomed to his voice yet, and probably didn’t respond to a stranger’s

a moment before rising from his chair and kneeling before her, his gaze almost level with the temporary home of their unseen child. With profound sincerity, he spoke again.

mother has endured so much to bring you into this world. She hopes for nothing more than your safe arrival and a healthy, happy life. And as your father, I’ve been absent, unable to share stories or lessons with you, unable to care for your mother.

At the moment his words fell

words, Bernard eagerly pressed his ear against her belly, yearning for the closest connection with the tiny life inside.

followed, each as palpable as if they were tapping directly on

that instant, Bernard, the untouchable figure who seemed to dwell amongst the stars, let his proud guard fall

attempt to hide them from Eleanor, he pretended to listen more intently,