His Knees, His Pleas, But Our Son's in Peace

"I'm on my way to a research conference," he explained, still looking slightly amused. "What about you?"

"Work," I replied simply, not wanting to get into the details. I reached for my seatbelt, fumbling slightly, and before I could get it right, Carlos leaned over, his fingers brushing against mine as he clicked the belt into place.

"Thanks," I said, looking away quickly. The gesture was small, but it left me with an odd sense of warmth.

As the plane began to taxi down the runway, I turned my focus to my laptop. I had work to do-preparations to make-and I wasn't about to let anything, or anyone, distract me. Carlos stayed silent, and I could feel his gaze occasionally flicker towards me. I ignored it, diving into my notes, my fingers typing furiously. I had to be ready for tomorrow's meeting, and there was no time to waste.

A while later, the stewardess came by with our meals, interrupting my train of thought. It wasn't until I set my laptop aside that I remembered to ask, "How's Cyrus doing?"

Carlos smiled, his expression softening. "Don't worry. The housekeepers are great with kids. He'll be just fine."

His words were gentle, reassuring, and for the first time in hours, I allowed myself to breathe out the worry that had been sitting like a weight in my chest. "Thanks," I said, and this time, I meant it.

After the plane landed, the airport was as chaotic as ever. Finding a cab in the rain was proving to be impossible. The arrival area was packed, and the downpour had made things worse. Carlos's driver was already waiting, and he glanced at me, clearly noticing my predicament.

"Let me give you a ride," he offered, gesturing towards his car.

I hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Thanks. I appreciate it."

The ride to my hotel was quiet. I glanced at Carlos, who was engrossed in a book, the calmness of his demeanor in stark contrast to my earlier rush. He was dressed in a sharp suit, and I couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt for pulling him away from his plans. "You didn't have to do this," I said softly. "I'm sure you have more important things to do."

Carlos looked up from his book, his gaze meeting mine. "Don't worry about it, Doris. Focus on what you need to do." His sincerity left me feeling a little less guilty, and I found myself nodding, turning my attention back to the window.

Once we arrived, Carlos helped me with my luggage before we went our separate ways to check in. We weren't on the same floor, but as I entered my room, I felt an odd sense of gratitude. The day had been chaotic, but somehow, Carlos had managed to steady it. There was no time to linger on that thought, though. I had work to do. I set up my laptop and immediately started a video conference with Blair. We had things to finalize, and time was slipping away. As we discussed the presentation, a notification popped up on my screen-a message from our partner company. They were pulling out, citing a cheaper option elsewhere.

My heart sank, and Blair's expression mirrored my own shock. "We can't let this happen," I said, determination seeping into my voice. "I'm going over there now.

Blair nodded. "Good luck, Doris."

I grabbed my things and hurried out of my room, my heart pounding. As I rushed through the hotel lobby, I nearly bumped into Carlos, who was heading out, a folder in his hand. Chapter 68

"Doris?" he asked, concern written on his face. "What's going on?"

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I explained the situation briefly, and before I could finish, he was already signaling to his driver. "I'll come with you," he said, his tone leaving no room for

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"Carlos, you really don't have to-"

He shook his head, cutting me off. "You might need some backup."

The ride to the partner's office was tense, but Carlos's presence remained a source of calm. I glanced over at him. He seemed perfectly at ease, even as the stakes were so high for me. The rain had let up, and the city lights reflected off the wet streets, casting a glow through the car windows.

"Thank you," I said quietly, feeling the weight of his support.

Carlos looked up from his book, a small smile on his lips. "Don't mention it. Let's solve the problem first."

When we arrived at the partner's building, Carlos quietly closed his book and set it aside. He straightened his suit and stepped out of the car without a word, ready to go up with me, staying close by my side.

Carlos' presence seemed to provide courage to me who had to face the difficulties that followed