Brantley nodded vigorously. "Yes, I'll take care of my sister."

Elissa cast a glance at her little half-brother.

Nonetheless, Raphael worried about Elissa. Her pregnancy was progressing, making her tasks more burdensome. He fretted over her balancing Brantley and her pregnancy alone in his absence.

Despite his concerns, Elissa remained resolute.

She handed Raphael a bank card, requesting him to withdraw some funds.

"Use it to secure a new apartment and hire household help," she instructed. "The remaining amount should cover our daily expenses and bills. And please, ensure the maid is experienced and reliable."

Glancing at Brantley, she added, "And his tuition fee alone is quite a significant expense as well."

Brantley hung his head guiltily at the mention of tuition fee.

Determined, he vowed to study hard and make enough money to support Elissa and their family in the future.

After two days of thinking, Raphael eventually acquiesced to Elissa's plan.

Soon after, he secured a new apartment, and they relocated.

Their new residence boasted three bedrooms and a spacious living room.

While not quite on par with the villa they used to live, it far surpassed their former accommodation, and the community environment was considerably superior to that of the small apartment.

The maid, highly recommended by the agent for her extensive childcare experience, would reside with them. Consequently, her monthly wage was higher than average.

Raphael prepaid her two months' salary in advance.

The apartment was adorned with a warm and simple decor. After observing for two days, Raphael concluded that the maid was trustworthy and dependable, which brought him a sense of relief.

The night before his leaving to Czanch marked the second time they had made love since leaving the villa.

Raphael was notably gentle, mostly due to Elissa's pregnancy and his own anxieties regarding the project. Despite their physical intimacy, neither of them could fully relax, overshadowed by their respective concerns.

After the intercourse, Raphael went downstairs for a smoke.

Coincidentally, the maid was also heading down to dispose of the rubbish. She greeted him with a smile, saying, "Good evening, Mr. Jones. It's thoughtful of you to consider that cigarette smoke isn't good for your wife, especially during her pregnancy."

"I'm flattered. It's just what I should do," replied Raphael with a faint smile.

With that said, the maid retreated.

After his smoke break, Raphael returned to the apartment. Elissa, in a drowsy state, greeted him as he leaned against the bed. Raphael engaged her in conversation, informing her of his upcoming business trip and entrusting her with the household responsibilities for the next few days. Anxious that she might overlook something, Raphael persisted in his reminders, resembling a concerned parent.

Eventually, fatigue overtook her, and she drifted into sleep.