Elissa knew he was concerned.

In less than forty-eight hours, news broke in Duefron: the maid was arrested for arson and could be facing up to a decade behind bars.

Upon hearing the news, Raphael embraced Elissa tenderly.

He had a gem of a wife.

Though born into wealth, she was astute and skilled at reading people.

She could fend for herself and Brantley.

In a hushed tone, Elissa queried, "What's up?"

Raphael shook his head and grinned. "I just got a fat payment from the client. How about we go house hunting?"

Elissa was taken aback.

He squeezed her hand, explaining how Czanch offered great opportunities. He aimed to grow his business there.

Once he'd amassed enough wealth, they could consider returning to Duefron.

After a moment's reflection, Elissa murmured, "Honestly, as long as I'm with you and our baby, I'm happy wherever we are."

Near the end of the year, Elissa was taken to the hospital, awaiting her due date.

She had been quite worn out lately so perhaps this was why the baby wasn't in the right position for birth. The doctor stepped aside to talk with Raphael about whether he agreed to a C-section.

The doctor said, "Though there's a risk with a C-section, in these cases, lots of families opt to take the risk. It's your call, Mr. Jones. If you think the C-section is too risky, we can try other ways to push through with the natural delivery, but it might take longer."

Raphael didn't hesitate. "Go ahead with the C-section! My wife and child's safety is all that matters right now."

Hearing this, the doctor nodded and asked Raphael to sign some papers.

Then, he went off to get things ready.

After a bit, Elissa was wheeled into the delivery room.

Following her, Raphael comforted her softly, “The C-section is very safe. The doc said it'll only take about half an hour."

Elissa held onto his hand tightly.

Raphael didn't want to leave her side and wished he could be there for the delivery. But the nurse told him to wait outside.

In the end, Raphael and Brantley could only wait in the corridor...

They waited together, feeling nervous outside the surgery room.