"But it seems our baby is just like her mother," Chiyo whispered, her voice carrying the faintest tremor of hope.
"She's strong. She survived."
Haruto froze. His eyes widened as he pulled away, searching her face.
"She…? She's alright?" His voice trembled, his eyes suddenly filled with desperate hope.
Chiyo nodded, a small, exhausted smile tugging at her lips. "I… I don't know the gender yet. But I just feel like she must be a girl. And when she grows up, you'll know exactly how terrifying it is to have a daughter date someone like you."
A breathless chuckle escaped her lips, fragile yet genuine.
Haruto let out a choked laugh, relief flooding his entire being. Without thinking, he cupped her face and kissed her gently, pouring every ounce of love and devotion he had into that single touch.
"Don't worry," he murmured against her lips. "I'll take care of her. From now on and forever. No one will ever hurt her… or you."
Chiyo gazed up at him, her expression softer now.
