Chapter 617

Getting pregnant before marriage made her the target of everyone's judgment. People acted like she was some kind of disgrace they couldn't wait to trample on. She had to protect herself and the baby in her belly all on her own, dragging herself through each day. No one cared if she was okay, or even alive. Beckett's hands were clenched so tight his knuckles turned white. The guilt was gut-wrenching. He pulled Madeleine into his arms and whispered, "I'm sorry… I should've been here sooner." Tears rolled down Madeleine's cheeks, but then she gave a small laugh, her voice hoarse. "So… I just want to know how it'll feel. You taking care of me through a pregnancy." She imagined it—her two boys by her side, and her husband holding her hand during doctor visits… That kind of happiness felt almost unreal. Even just picturing it made her heart feel warm. Beckett gave a choked "Yeah. I'm with you… always." He made a silent promise to himself—no more broken promises, no more letting her down. He