CHAPTER 249: CHAPTER 249 HER LITTLE ESCAPE

Serena’s POV

I slumped into the lounge chair on the balcony, letting the sunlight wash over me while boredom slowly ate away at my sanity. Even after a nap, exhaustion still clung to me like a second skin. Probably because I’ve been cooped up in this mansion for what feels like forever with zero physical activity.

When I heard the soft knock on the door, I perked up at the prospect of any distraction.

"Come in," I called, trying not to sound too eager.

The butler stepped in with his perpetually perfect posture. "Madam, Dr. Lay is here to see you."

I acknowledged him with a lazy "Mmm" and slipped my feet into my slippers before heading downstairs. Ryan had been insistent about these medical checkups every three days—all for the wellbeing of me and our little one, he’d say.

I yawned dramatically as I settled onto the sofa, submitting to the now-familiar routine of prodding and measurements.

After finishing her examination, Dr. Lay smiled warmly at me. "Mrs. Blackwood, you’re perfectly healthy. Your complexion is a bit dull, though. That’s likely from being confined indoors all day."

Her next words made my ears perk up like a cat’s.

"You should get out occasionally, see some friends. It would be much better for you, actually."

My eyes lit up before I remembered Ryan’s countless warnings. My excitement deflated instantly.

"Ryan says I’m in a critical period and should stay home, not moving around too much," I recited his words like a well-trained parrot.

Dr. Lay’s brows furrowed. "Mr. Blackwood’s intentions are good, but he’s mistaken on this point. Moderate activity and fresh air benefit both you and the baby." She leaned in slightly. "Constantly being shut in isn’t healthy for anyone, especially not an expectant mother."

As she emphasized this point repeatedly, a rebellious plan began forming in my mind. What if I just... went out while Ryan was at work? I’d only visit my studio, not climb a mountain or go skydiving. What harm could possibly come from that?

"I understand. Thank you, Dr. Lay," I said, newfound determination creeping into my voice.

After she left, I remembered that Ethan was having his branch opening ceremony today. As his sister, I absolutely had to be there to congratulate him.

When I came downstairs dressed in a chic maternity outfit, the butler’s eyes widened.

"Madam, are we expecting guests?"

"No," I replied breezily. "I’m going out for a bit."

The poor man looked like he might faint. "Madam, Mr. Blackwood specifically instructed—"

"I know what he said," I cut him off with a wave of my hand. "But you heard Dr. Lay yesterday, didn’t you? She recommended I get some fresh air. I’m not made of glass, for heaven’s sake!"

When my determination didn’t waver, he tried a different approach. "Let me call Mr. Blackwood and ask—"

"Absolutely not!" I snapped, perhaps too quickly. If Ryan knew, my little adventure would be over before it began. "I won’t be going alone. What are you so worried about?"

I narrowed my eyes. "Or am I actually a bird in a gilded cage? Do I have no rights at all?"

The butler sighed in defeat. "Please be careful, madam. At least take the bodyguards with you. For safety’s sake."

"Fine," I agreed, knowing this was the best compromise I’d get. "And not a word to Ryan!"

He pressed his lips together but nodded reluctantly. "Please return early, madam."

"I will," I promised, already halfway out the door.

Sitting in the car with the window down, feeling the breeze on my face, my mood instantly lifted. Dr. Lay was right—I needed this escape more than I’d realized.

When I arrived at LUXE’s new branch, Maya’s eyes nearly popped out of her head seeing me there.

"Serena! What on earth are you doing here?" Her gaze shifted to the two stone-faced bodyguards flanking me. "Wow, Mr. Blackwood really does treat you like fine china, doesn’t he?" she teased.

I laughed it off. "Better safe than sorry, I suppose. Where’s Ethan?"

"He’s tied up at the moment. Let’s go upstairs where it’s quieter—the crowd should thin out soon."

I nodded and turned to my shadows. "You two can wait in the car."

The bodyguards exchanged troubled glances. "Mrs. Blackwood, we should at least remain by the door. We won’t intrude, but—"

"What are you so worried about?" I insisted. "This is Quinn territory, and Maya here is a Quinn herself. Plus, the place is crawling with people. I’m hardly going to be in danger sitting with my friend."

Maya gave me a sympathetic look before addressing them. "She’ll be perfectly safe with me, I promise."

With visible reluctance, they retreated, and Maya linked her arm through mine as we headed upstairs.

Once settled in the private lounge, we dove into girl talk like we hadn’t seen each other in years. Maya’s face glowed with happiness—her relationship with Ethan had clearly progressed significantly.

"I’ve heard all about how you helped Ethan with this branch," I said, pouring us both some tea. "You two seem inseparable these days. I’m guessing a Quinn family wedding might be on the horizon?"

Maya blushed adorably. "If I do marry him, what does that make you? Family from my side or his?"

I burst out laughing. "Officially, I’d be your in-law. But between us?" I squeezed her hand. "I’m definitely your ally. Don’t worry—he wouldn’t dare mistreat you."

We exchanged knowing looks and dissolved into giggles, enjoying this rare moment of freedom and friendship that felt so precious to me now.