Chapter 372 The Joy of Feeling the Baby Move Together
Hearing Ashley's sweet words, Ethan broke into a broad smile. "I've missed you too, darling," he said.
With that, Ethan pulled Ashley close and leaned down for a kiss.
As the plane ascended, its propellers kicked up a gust of wind. Their clothes and hair danced in the breeze, creating a picturesque, romantic scene.
Michael and Katherine watched from behind, grinning and playfully covering their eyes at the intimate display.
The passionate kiss continued until both were breathless, reluctantly pulling apart at last.
"Surprised to see me back so suddenly?" Ashley asked with a mischievous smile.
"Absolutely delighted," Ethan replied. He was relieved he wouldn't have to sleep alone anymore.
Ashley glanced over Ethan's shoulder and finally noticed Michael standing there. Her face immediately flushed with embarrassment.
"Oh! Grandpa and Grandma are here," she said, her cheeks reddening. She shot Ethan an accusing look for not warning her.
Ethan just smiled and wrapped his arm around her waist, guiding her toward the house.
Katherine called out, "Ashley, we're just sitting down for dinner. Your timing is perfect—join us!"
"I'd love to," Ashley replied.
The family gathered at the dining table. Though they'd only been apart for two days, Ethan behaved like an affectionate puppy—serving Ashley food, asking her questions, and making sure she was completely comfortable.
After dinner, the family moved to the living room to chat.
Ashley discreetly observed Katherine's condition; her complexion remained poor, and she appeared quite frail.
Taking out a small box, Ashley said, "Grandma, while I was in the countryside, William prepared some medicinal pills. I noticed you're looking a bit under the weather—this might help boost your immunity. Would you like to try one?"
Ashley deliberately downplayed the medicine's importance, as Katherine didn't know Ashley was aware of her condition.
Assuming it was just a common health supplement, Katherine replied, "How thoughtful of you, Ashley. I'll gladly take it."
"Let me get you some water," Ashley said, pouring a glass and handing the pill to Katherine.
Katherine looked at Ashley with grateful eyes. "Thank you." She felt fortunate that Ethan had such a caring wife.
Katherine took the pill in front of everyone. The Panacea had a complex taste—somewhat bitter yet mostly sweet—and went down easily with a couple sips of water.
Seeing Katherine take the medicine, Ashley felt relieved. She had complete confidence in the Panacea's effectiveness and believed that Katherine's next check-up would show significant improvement.
"Ashley, there's something I'd like to give you," Katherine said.
"What is it?" Ashley asked, curious.
"Wait just a moment." Katherine gestured to Michael, who began wheeling her toward their bedroom. "It's in my room. I'll bring it out to you."
Ashley nodded. "Alright."
As they watched Michael wheel Katherine away, Ashley turned to Ethan, affectionately holding his arm. "What's this mysterious gift Grandma wants to give me?" she asked playfully.
Ethan smiled. "You'll find out soon enough."
He put his arm around her, his hand resting gently on her belly. "You mentioned feeling movement last night. Is our little one quiet right now?"
"How would I know..." Ashley began, but was interrupted by her own startled exclamation, echoed by Ethan's surprised reaction.
At that exact moment, Ashley felt the baby move, and Ethan felt the movement beneath his palm. Their initial surprise melted into joyful smiles, their eyes reflecting pure happiness.
"The babies are moving again," Ashley said, beaming.
"I felt it too!" Ethan gazed at Ashley's slightly rounded belly with intensity, his expression a mixture of excitement and wonder.
"So that's what it feels like! Like someone giving your stomach a little punch from the inside," Ethan exclaimed.
"Exactly," Ashley agreed sweetly.
As they spoke, Ashley's belly moved again, filling them both with joy.
Ethan addressed her stomach directly. "You two troublemakers, stop bothering your mother. Keep it up and you'll answer to me later."
The little ones seemed to respond to Ethan's playfully stern yet affectionate tone with a slight protest before settling down again.
"You've scared them," Ashley teased.
"I'm just establishing my authority," Ethan countered.
"When is your next prenatal appointment?" he asked.
After a moment's thought, Ashley replied, "Since I'm back now, let's schedule it for tomorrow."
"I'll call Morgan and have him set it up with the doctor," Ethan said.
Ashley nodded. "Will you come with me?"
"I'll tell Diannel to reschedule my meetings. Of course I'll accompany you," Ethan assured her.
Ashley smiled sweetly and gave him a kiss on the cheek. "You're the best husband ever."
Michael returned, pushing Katherine's wheelchair.
"Ashley, I have a gift for you," Katherine announced.
"Grandma, what's the special occasion?" Ashley asked.
As she spoke, Katherine opened an ornate, antique-looking box containing an elegant bracelet.
Katherine carefully removed the bracelet and explained, "Every matriarch of the Yates family must receive this traditional heirloom. This bracelet is the symbol of succession for the lady of our family!"
Ashley felt surprised, her heart racing.
Was Katherine really preparing to pass this family heirloom to her?
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