Chapter 221

A faint cry pierced the stillness of the Khan villa, pulling Ayleen from a restless sleep. She blinked in the dim light, her heart tightening at the familiar sound.

Murtaza.

Slowly, Ayleen rose from the rocking chair, pulling her shawl tighter around her. The soft creak of the floor greeted her as we moved to the crib. Moonlight streamed through the curtains, casting a silver glow over the room, Murtaza’s nursery.

Lavender walls adorned with delicate patterns. Minimalist shelves stacked with children’s books and plush toys. A white crib stood in the corner, beside the cradling chair Murat had chosen himself. The faint scent of baby powder and soft lullabies lingering in the air.

Murtaza’s tiny face scrunched as he whimpered again. Ayleen gently scooped him into her arms, her fingers brushing his soft curls.

“There, there, my love,” she whispered, settling into the rocking chair. As she fed him, her eyes softened.

Six months. Six long months withou