Ayla is currently not working, at least until her pregnancy enters the second trimester and her condition significantly improves. This decision wasn't easy for Ayla, who has always been deeply dedicated to her work as a doctor. Known for rarely taking time off even when exhausted her sudden request for an extended leave raised many questions among her colleagues at the hospital.
In the staff lounge, whispers about Ayla's departure became a hot topic. No one knew the exact reason behind her abrupt two-month leave. The only information provided in her leave application was a general note citing health reasons, with no further explanation or official medical documentation attached.
Sienna, one of Ayla's colleagues and a silent competitor, was particularly unsettled. She even took the time to visit the HR department, hoping to glean more detailed information. Unfortunately, the records remained sealed. Details about Ayla's condition were tightly guarded. Unsatisfied, Sienna enlisted her parents, who had direct connections with the hospital's board, to investigate further. Still, they found nothing, as if everyone was conspiring to keep Ayla hidden from the outside world.
Ironically, this was what Sienna had long hoped for. With Ayla absent, Sienna's chances of securing a prominent position at the hospital increased significantly. Yet, for some reason, her anxiety and curiosity overshadowed any satisfaction.
Meanwhile, in the penthouse specially arranged by Ethan, Ayla spent her days in monotonous routines. Although she occasionally continued her medical research from the hospital, her movements were now restricted. She couldn't work freely whenever she wanted. Ethan permitted only one to two hours per day, with a strict maximum of five hours, ensuring she didn't overexert herself.
If Ayla attempted to exceed these limits, Ethan wouldn't hesitate to reprimand her. He would immediately call her, either on her personal phone or directly to the penthouse line. If Ayla dared to ignore both, Ethan would appear in person, confiscating her laptop, books, and research journals to prevent her from being stubborn.
After several such incidents, Ayla finally relented. She adhered to all the imposed restrictions—not out of fear, but because she began to understand that Ethan's actions weren't arbitrary. He was genuinely concerned, not just about the pregnancy but also about Ayla's well-being, recognizing that any suffering would be borne by the mother, not just the unborn child.
That day, amidst overcast skies and a cool breeze enveloping the city, Ayla woke earlier than usual. She had felt uneasy since the previous night, sensing that something was about to happen. And indeed, by midday, two unexpected visitors arrived at the penthouse: Ethan's parents.
Ayla tensed, standing frozen in the living room, unsure whether to greet them or hide. Her heart raced, plagued by negative thoughts. She imagined Ethan's mother scolding her, blaming her, or even kicking her out.
However, the opposite occurred. The elegantly dressed middle-aged woman approached with a warm smile, gently holding Ayla's hand. "Thank you," she said softly but meaningfully. "Thank you for taking care of our grandchild."
Ayla was stunned, not expecting such a reception. Even Ethan's father nodded slightly, showing genuine acceptance. Ethan, standing not far behind them, looked relieved. He had feared his mother's reaction, but his worries proved unfounded. She displayed unexpected affection.
They sat together in the living room as a maid served snacks and drinks. "How's your pregnancy? I heard from Ethan that you need bed rest?" the woman asked gently, still holding Ayla's hands. She was Evelyn Calloway, Ethan's mother.
"Mr. Ethan is just being overprotective, Ma'am. I'm actually doing fine," Ayla replied with an awkward smile.
"Oh, that's not overprotective. The first trimester is indeed delicate. You're a doctor, even if not an obstetrician; you should understand basic things like this. Don't underestimate your body's signals. Take care of yourself. Don't push yourself if your body shows discomfort," Evelyn said, smiling as she gently caressed Ayla's face with affection.
"Thank you," Evelyn repeated sincerely.
Evelyn was overjoyed. She was relieved to know her son didn't have fertility issues. Perhaps it was Katherine's body that couldn't conceive anymore. The accident had been severe, causing Katherine to miscarry. Even though doctors said everything was fine, who knew if Katherine's uterus had sustained damage, preventing embryo implantation.
She had researched Ayla a young, talented doctor at the hospital where her family invested. Ayla's life revolved around patients and studies, with little else occupying her attention. Many doctors tried to approach her, but Ayla seemed uninterested. She rarely smiled at men, but her demeanor changed when interacting with patients or nurses. That's what Evelyn observed.
She didn't care about Ayla's family background. What mattered was that Ayla was ambitious yet kind-hearted. The lawyer who drafted the agreement even mentioned how Ayla was concerned about Katherine's feelings, even though she didn't have to be. Katherine should be grateful that Ayla agreed to carry Ethan's child. All the information Evelyn gathered convinced her that Ayla wasn't lying. The child she carried was indeed Ethan's.
Their conversation continued, with Evelyn asking Ayla about her pregnancy, favorite foods, daily routines, and how Ethan treated her. She also shared traditional tips for maintaining a healthy pregnancy, prepared herbal drinks, and even suggested baby names.
That day turned into something Ayla never imagined. The warmth from Ethan's family melted her heart. For the first time since everything happened, she felt not just like someone 'forced' into a significant role in someone else's life but as part of the family itself.
That night, as Ethan escorted her to her room, Ayla glanced at him differently. "I didn't expect your parents to be so kind to me," she said softly.
Ethan gave a small smile. "Neither did I. But maybe they understand that what you're doing isn't a small thing. And they appreciate it."
Ayla nodded, gazing out the window at the city's shimmering lights. Her heart felt warm, even though her mind was still filled with questions about the future. But for now, she knew one thing: she wasn't alone and shouldn't fear what lay ahead for her and her child, because Ethan's family had embraced the presence of the baby she carried. Ethan's parents were known for their kindness, not just in the media but genuinely, so Ayla felt she could trust that everything would be okay in the future.