The Imposter Bride (Natalia and Magnus) novel Chapter 438

Occasionally, Gabby would swing by Magnus' place to drop off some urgent documents that needed his signature. Over time, her frequent visits led to a budding friendship with Natalia.

Natalia took a shine to Gabby's straightforward manner and found that their conversations clicked. Before long, they had grown into close friends, almost like sisters.

As Natalia's belly grew rounder with each passing day, Gabby started urging Magnus to spend more time at home with Natalia. Gabby assured him that she could handle things at the office, and for anything she couldn't manage, she'd give him a ring.

Magnus was only too happy to comply with her suggestion, keen to stay by Natalia's side as much as he could.

Gradually, Gabby took over handling the company's minor affairs, and organized everything with great efficiency. Yet, every evening, as the sun dipped low, she would stand in the assistant's office, gazing out the pristine glass window at the sunset. Her eyes would brim with a deep melancholy and longing that no one could decipher. She always maintained a polite distance, dealing with tasks and people with courtesy while keeping her own sorrows well hidden.

Time flew, and before they knew it, Natalia was nearly five months along.

Hector, upon hearing of Natalia's pregnancy, offered his congratulations, though he couldn't help feeling a twinge of jealousy in his heart. The girl he once hoped to protect was now drifting further from his reach.

Meanwhile, Bianca, like a cheerful little bird, had been keeping Hector's villa immaculately tidy, which somewhat soothed his lonely heart. Even though he might never hold Natalia's hand again, he was comforted by Bianca's presence at home. Whenever he saw Bianca's bright smile, it would invariably bring back memories of his carefree college days with Natalia, filled with light-hearted joy and brilliance.

One day, feeling cooped up at home, Natalia decided to go out for a stroll.

Magnus, who would have gladly spent every waking hour attending to her, was all for the idea and accompanied her to the largest shopping mall in Hawaii.

The mall was bustling with activity, and the air conditioning was on full blast.

Natalia, now somewhat unwieldy, felt the need to take a break after walking for a while. Magnus was attentive, frequently checking if she wanted to grab a bite to eat. Perhaps because she hadn't been out in a while, Natalia had no intention of heading home just yet. She pointed to the third floor, where baby gear was sold, hoping to check it out and potentially shop for some clothes and supplies for the little one on the way.

As Magnus helped Natalia up the escalator, he chuckled at her waddling gait. "What's so funny all of a sudden?" Natalia asked, puzzled.

Magnus, trying to soothe the ache from his grin, leaned in and whispered, "Honey, the way you're walking is hilarious. You’re wobbling like a proud little penguin."

Natalia laughed, too, playfully punching Magnus' shoulder. "You're more like a penguin, Mr. Proud and Preening!"

"Alright, alright, that is me," Magnus conceded, gently helping Natalia up to the third floor, where they began exploring the baby goods.

Natalia was delighted by the tiny, delicate clothes and shoes, finding each item adorable and struggling to choose. Holding a pink outfit in one hand and a crescent white one in the other, she sought Magnus' opinion. "Which color do you like better?"

Without hesitation, Magnus replied, "Both are beautiful. Let's get them both."