Chapter 21Jussara sighed, her head resting softly on Gabriel’s shoulder. Her voice came out low, thick with sleep.“I never imagined you could be so affectionate,” she commented, her eyes almost closed, as she felt his fingers glide gently over her shoulder and arm. Each touch was like a spark running through her skin, sending shivers through her.Gabriel lowered his gaze, smiling softly as he saw how comfortable she was. He continued the delicate motion, as if he wanted to calm her even more.“You deserve much more than that, my dear,” he replied, his voice deep and calm, full of sincerity.She opened her eyes for a moment, looking at him tenderly.“I never thought I could feel something like this… so… complete,” she whispered, gently squeezing his arm.He wrapped her even more tightly in his embrace, adjusting her position so she would be even more comfortable.“Complete is exactly how I feel with you,” he murmured, bringing his lips to her forehead and placing a soft kiss there.J

Chapter 23Dona Amélia, excited by the conversation, went straight to her bedroom to get her planner and call her trusted obstetrician.“Dr. Vargas? This is Amélia Monteiro speaking. How are you? I’d like to schedule an appointment for my daughter-in-law. Yes, that’s right, she’s expecting a baby.”While Amélia organized everything, Jussara decided to step outside for a bit. The morning was sunny, and the mansion’s garden seemed like the perfect place to relax. She went down the steps leading to the large lawn and walked slowly among the flowers.The scent of the roses and the gentle sound of water from the central fountain made her smile. She sat on a bench beneath a leafy tree and closed her eyes for a moment, enjoying the peace.“Have you settled into the mansion yet?” Gabriel asked. He had stepped out of his office and was watching her from a distance.She opened her eyes and saw him walking toward her. He still wore a focused expression, probably thinking about work, but his eyes

Chapter 25Gabriel tightened the embrace, as if trying to convey even more comfort and security. Gradually, he loosened his arms, giving Jussara space to pull herself together. However, as he stepped back, his eyes finally caught the details that concern had not allowed him to notice before.She was almost naked, wearing that tiny pair of panties, her skin glowing from the cream she had applied. His eyes instinctively traveled over her beauty, and he felt heat rush through his body, nearly stealing his breath.His thoughts began to race, but he closed his eyes for a moment, trying to regain control. Gabriel took a step back, forcing a tense smile.“You really are a temptation, you know that?” he said in a hoarse voice, almost a whisper.Jussara blushed deeply, bringing her hands to her face.“Gabriel! I… I didn’t even realize that I was…” she stammered, quickly reaching for the dress hanging nearby.He let out a low laugh, rubbing the back of his neck, still fighting his instincts.“N

Chapter 27Marcus was sitting in his office at his father’s company, the silence filling the room, and it was extremely monotonous for him. In his hands, a pencil that he absentmindedly spun between his fingers. His thoughts were far away, lost between memories of the past and doubts about the future. He frowned, clenching his teeth as a mix of frustration and anger took over him.Without realizing it, he squeezed the pencil too hard until he heard it snap with a dry crack. He looked at the broken pieces in his hands and let out a deep sigh, as if that were a reflection of his own inner confusion.“Enough,” he thought, standing up abruptly. “This needs to be resolved now.”Determined, he grabbed his jacket and left his office with firm steps, ignoring the greetings of coworkers as he headed toward the elevator. His mind was focused on a single objective: talking to his father. It was time to settle things, even if it meant a direct confrontation.When he reached the executive floor, h

Chapter 29Jussara accepted another serving of the delicious dish Dona Amélia had prepared. Between bites, she felt increasingly at ease. Smiling, Dona Amélia encouraged her.“That’s it, dear, eat slowly. You’re taking such good care of yourself; you’re going to glow during this time.”“Thank you, Dona Amélia. I think my appetite has tripled!” Jussara replied, laughing.After finishing her plate, she thanked her again, hugged Dona Amélia, and headed toward the office. Meanwhile, Dona Amélia returned to coordinating the kitchen with the cooks, finishing lunch with mastery.Jussara walked through the mansion’s corridors, admiring the decorative details that seemed to carry their own stories. When she reached the office door, she gave two light knocks before opening it.“May I come in?” she asked, peeking through the crack in the door.Gabriel looked up from the papers he was reviewing and smiled immediately when he saw her.“Of course, come in! I was thinking about you.”Jussara stepped