Chapter 143

Serena's POV "If anyone wants something, tell Serena what you'd like, and we'll bring it back for you." Ryan said, his tone surprisingly casual. My staff erupted in cheers and excited chatter. I couldn't hide my surprise, watching him interact with my team like this. This was the same man who once commanded boardrooms with ice in his veins? The untouchable Mr. Blackwood who barely acknowledged junior staff? Something had shifted in him - not just toward me, but in how he carried himself with others. I felt a strange flutter in my chest that had nothing to do with the baby. "Let's go," he said softly, his hand hovering near my back but not quite touching me. I noticed immediately that he'd chosen Rosetta's - my favorite Italian place with the patio seating I loved. The hostess led us to a quiet corner table, away from the lunch crowd noise. While waiting for our food, Ryan broke the comfortable silence between us. "Your next prenatal appointment is coming up soon, isn't it?" "Tomorrow,