Forced Marriage: My Wife, My Redemption
Chapter 266: How did I miss that?

Chapter 266: How did I miss that?

The trip to the hospital was uneventful aside from the usual cuddling, hugging, and soft whispers of concern. Though Jessica had known she was pregnant for the past few weeks, seeing herself en route to the hospital because of pregnancy made the truth glaring and undeniable.

Noticing her overly calm demeanor, Davis sighed, his face clearly revealing the volume of worry swirling in his heart.

"Are you scared?" Davis asked, his gaze never leaving hers. Given Jessica’s phobia of hospitals and the fact that this was her first pregnancy, he couldn’t help but worry.

"Yes, I was... but having you here has eased it a bit—though not completely," she replied with a small smile.

She had been genuinely worried about her phobia acting up, but the little life growing inside her needed all the care and attention it could get. As a doctor, she knew she couldn’t afford to deny her child that.

With that in mind, she made the bold decision to come to the hospital, albeit with a slightly unusual idea. When it came time for the actual check-up, she planned to blindfold herself—shutting out the memory of being in a hospital.

Jessica believed that although it might be challenging, that was the only compromise she could offer. But now, with Davis by her side willingly attending the visit and promising not to miss a single one in the future she felt relieved.

"You don’t have to be scared. I promise to always be there," he whispered, gently caressing her forehead and planting a kiss.

As the drive progressed, they chatted about everything under the sun. It was a peaceful and comfortable ride.

After a few hours’ drive from Jessica’s home to the hospital, the driver carefully pulled into the hospital parking lot. His expression was respectful as he stepped out and opened the door.

Jessica took a moment to study the surroundings for any potential threats. She pulled out her phone and called Bella:

"Sister, I’m at the hospital for a check-up. Care to meet me at the OB-GYN department?"

Bella screamed on the phone.

"Sis-in-law, you’re pregnant? You’re going for a check-up?"

Jessica sighed. She couldn’t believe her eardrums hadn’t burst from Bella’s excited shout.

"Is it really that great to be pregnant? Might as well count it as a hindrance," she muttered, recalling the incident from the night before and the symptoms she’d been managing.

Carefully, she slid on her sunglasses as the driver placed the wheelchair down and opened the door. His sharp eyes scanned the hospital environment for any sign of danger.

With great care, he assisted Davis, whose agility in transferring into the wheelchair had improved over time—leaving some of the subordinates stunned and contemplative about how possible it was. Yet, they dared not question it.

With his feet landing firmly on the ground, Davis carefully settled in, a helpless sigh escaping his lips. Still, he encouraged himself silently.

"Just a few more days. Yes, a few more days."

Jessica stepped behind him and gently adjusted the collar of his shirt. Bending slightly, she planted a feather-light kiss on his cheek, catching the flicker of emotion on his face.

"Can you be more patient?" she asked softly.

The driver took the handle and slowly pushed Davis toward the hospital entrance.

"Isn’t that Davis Allen? Is that his rumored wife?" voices murmured as the duo entered the general waiting room.

"I heard they just returned a few days ago. While his family thought he was missing—or worse—he was out there enjoying life," someone whispered.

"Be careful what you say. Didn’t you notice that it was never reported by the family? Even the Police Chief made a statement on their behalf," another responded.

"Whose family daughter is his wife?"

"Isn’t it the Louis family’s daughter, Vera?"

"You’re mistaken. Vera fell for his cousin."

"His wife is beautiful—and intimidating."

"I think they’re a perfect match. Quite unfortunate, though. He can’t stand and who knows if he can even perform?" one person muttered.

Her colleague quickly covered her mouth, her eyes darting around the hallway. "Even if he can’t, it’s not for you to say. If the Allen family sues you for defamation, your entire household will rot in jail."

The whispers didn’t escape their ears.

Davis’s lips curled upward as he tugged Jessica’s hand. She leaned closer, and he smirked.

"Do you also think I can’t perform?"

Jessica felt her cheeks heat up. She couldn’t believe he was asking that in public.

"Davis Allen, don’t be shameless," she said through gritted teeth.

They made their way into the OB-GYN department. The white walls of the private women’s clinic gleamed under soft, calming lights. The gentle scent of disinfectant mixed with lavender diffusers created a tranquil atmosphere.

Jessica sat beside Davis in the quiet, exclusive wing of the hospital, designed for the comfort of the elite. Dressed in a soft beige sweater and dark maternity jeans chosen more for comfort than style, she tapped her fingers nervously against her thigh.

Davis noticed and gently reached out to hold her hand.

"Stop overthinking," he murmured, offering a reassuring squeeze. "We’re just here to confirm everything’s okay."

She gave a small nod and smile.

The door creaked open. A nurse stepped out.

"Mrs. Allen? You may come in now. The doctor is ready for you."

Jessica had scheduled the appointment in advance and specifically picked a day with fewer patients. She stood as Davis wheeled forward beside her.

They entered the consultation room and were greeted by a poised, warm woman in her fifties—Dr. Stella. Her presence was comforting, her smile maternal.

"Good morning, Mrs. Allen, Mr. Allen. Please, make yourselves comfortable," she said.

Jessica sat nervously while Davis parked his chair beside her, still holding her hand.

"I understand this is your first prenatal check-up?" the doctor asked.

Jessica nodded. "Yes, I already confirmed the pregnancy at home, but I haven’t done any scans or tests yet."

"Well, you’re not the first woman to walk in that way," Dr. Stella chuckled gently. "Let’s do a basic ultrasound first, then discuss how far along you are and what precautions you’ll need moving forward."

Jessica took a deep breath. Davis gave her hand a gentle squeeze as she walked over to the table.

She lay back on the examination bed. As Dr. Stella spread the gel on her abdomen and began the scan, silence filled the room—until a soft, rhythmic sound emerged.

Thump-thump. Thump-thump.

Davis blinked, the sound instantly anchoring his attention. Jessica stiffened, her breath hitched, and at this moment, she had to accept the reality that she was pregnant.

"There it is," Dr. Stella smiled. "A strong heartbeat."

Jessica turned toward the monitor as a small, clearly formed figure came into view, gently shifting.

"You’re about eleven to twelve weeks in," Dr. Stella said softly. "That’s roughly three months."

Jessica’s jaw dropped. "Three... what?" She looked at Davis, stunned. "Three months?"

The doctor nodded. "Yes. The heartbeat is strong. The fetus is well-developed."

Jessica exhaled slowly. "I thought it was just a few weeks... I only noticed the symptoms recently."

"You’ve been active," Dr. Stella replied. "It’s not uncommon. Stress, travel, intense routines—sometimes it all masks the signs."

Jessica let out a quiet laugh. "I’ve definitely been exercising. But I guess I’ve been neglecting some things."

"Your blood hormone levels and early fetal markers are consistent," the doctor explained. "It’s common for first-time moms to confuse early symptoms with fatigue or other stress-related signs."

"Well, then," Jessica said with a small sigh, "it’s time to make some lifestyle adjustments."

"Absolutely," Dr. Stella agreed, handing her a towel. "We’ll start you on prenatal supplements and schedule the standard blood tests."

Davis spoke up, his tone protective. "What about her stress levels? Her blood pressure? She bottles a lot up. Could it harm the baby?"

Jessica rolled her eyes inwardly. Please don’t restrict my every movement, she silently pleaded.

Dr. Stella chuckled. "She needs rest, hydration, and minimal stress. Avoid caffeine, late nights, and high-adrenaline situations. And yes—routine scans and checkups every few weeks."

Jessica nodded, Davis taking mental notes like a soldier on a mission.

"I’ll email you the recommendations," Dr. Stella concluded. "You’re both in for a beautiful journey. The nurse will help with your lab forms."

After the doctor exited, Jessica turned to Davis, blinking.

"Three months... how did I miss that?"