Chapter 17

Listen first, please. Last night, I didn't use any protection. I'm really sorry for what happened, Nova. I didn't mean to—” Ryder began, his voice tinged with regret.

“Please, don't apologize. I also wanted what happened between us. And don't worry, I can't get pregnant. I'm safe,” I lied, forcing a reassuring smile despite the unease swirling inside me.

In truth, I was acutely aware of my fertility, and the possibility of pregnancy loomed over me like a dark cloud after our passionate encounter.

“Oh, thank God! It’s not yet the perfect time for us to have a baby,” he exclaimed with relief, his tension visibly easing.

“Then, you should have been more careful!” I scolded, unable to suppress the flicker of annoyance at his lack of foresight.

“My fault. I was so caught up in the moment, and I loved every minute of it. That’s why it didn’t occur to me to use any protection,” he explained, his tone sheepish.

“Well, at least we both enjoyed it,” I