Crushed Affections (Dominic and Bella)

Chapter 424 What Can Be Lost, Clearly Doesn't Matter

For some reason, Bella felt like Hallie was scrutinizing her through those large sunglasses, making her feel slightly uncomfortable.

Hallie suddenly spoke as Bella wondered how to steer the conversation. "How many months along are you?"

She was clearly asking how far along Bella was in her pregnancy.

Bella instinctively placed a hand on her stomach. "Not quite five months. You go ahead and shop. I'll take a look at some maternity clothes."

Hallie suddenly grabbed her wrist. "I've heard about your pregnancy from Victor for some time now. I've been thinking about what kind of gift to get you-nothing too flashy, just something useful. Since the seasons are changing, I figured I'd buy you some comfortable clothes. You'll also need clothes for the baby after it's born."

Bella was momentarily confused. She felt something was off but couldn't pinpoint what. She glanced at Sean, who shrugged as if he didn't know either.

money Dominic had transferred to her, nor had she used her own money. Hallie had covered all

trying to process what had just happened. She asked Cara, "Do you think that

looked genuinely puzzled.

Why is your mom buying clothes for me and the baby? Did you say something

it's because you're carrying Dominic's baby. My dad and

wish the baby was mine, but you never gave

Sean was still as smooth-talking as ever. He

with many shopping bags, Bella took pictures of the things Hallie had bought and sent them to Dominic, asking

further words between them. The next prenatal checkup appointment came around. Dominic showed

light drizzle fell from a grey, overcast sky as if it were holding back a heavier storm. Cara dropped Bella off at Dominic's car and headed to the market with an umbrella. Bella buckled her seatbelt