Forbiddenly Bound To You
Chapter 91: They’ll Think We’re Couples

Chapter 91: They’ll Think We’re Couples

As the car moved on, Mira realized just how much Lily had helped her during this conflicted time. If Lily hadn’t organized the baby shower, Mira would never have discovered the hidden clause in her contract agreement. The thought of finding out about it on the day she signed the Divorce Papers sent a chill down her spine. She couldn’t imagine how devastating that revelation would have been. The weight of her divorce and the uncertainties surrounding her future as a new mother pressed heavily on her shoulders.

With a soft smile, she turned her gaze to Lily, who had not only become a steadfast friend but was also about to become an aunt. The bond they shared had deepened in ways Mira never anticipated, and she felt a surge of gratitude for having her in her life. The late afternoon sun filtered through the car window, casting warm rays over them, a stark contrast to the cool, dark emotions swirling within her.

As they drove, Mira couldn’t help but reflect on the journey that had led her here. The past few months had been a whirlwind of emotions: the bitter end of her marriage, the joyful discovery of her pregnancy, and the overwhelming task of preparing for a new life. It was a mix of chaos and hope, and Lily had been her anchor. She appreciated the small gestures, like the way Lily always made time for her, despite her own busy schedule.

The car finally came to a stop in front of a transparent building, the sunlight streaming through the glass, illuminating the adorable baby items on display inside. It was a baby store, filled with everything a new mother might need. But as Mira stepped out, a wave of pain surged through her heart. The vibrant colors and cheerful displays inside the store made her heart ache with a longing she couldn’t quite articulate.

She watched as couples entered and exited the store, some with radiant smiles, while others helped pregnant women with their bags, laughter and joy evident in their interactions. In stark contrast, Mira felt utterly alone. Her lips trembled as she took in the scene, her chest tightening with a mix of sorrow and longing. The sight of happy families reminded her of what she was missing, what she had once hoped for. Her mind raced with questions. How had her life changed so drastically? Would she ever experience the kind of happiness they seemed to radiate?

The thought of going inside the store felt unbearable. She hesitated, her heart aching at the idea of facing the reality of her situation. Would she ever feel that kind of happiness? Would she ever have the support and love of a partner as she navigated motherhood? With each passing moment, the pain of her solitude intensified, and she had to muster every ounce of strength to take that first step toward the entrance. The store loomed before her, both inviting and intimidating.

Lily, noticing Mira’s hesitation, immediately took her hands in hers, gently rubbing them to soothe her. "Let’s go..." she encouraged, her voice warm and reassuring. Her unwavering support gave Mira a sense of comfort.

"I don’t know..." Mira started, uncertainty creeping into her tone. She felt a flutter of anxiety in her stomach, the familiar tightness creeping back in.

Lily flashed a knowing smile, as if she anticipated Mira’s reluctance. "Come on! Let’s go together. They’ll think we’re a couple!" The playful glint in her eyes suggested she found the idea amusing.

Mira’s eyes widened in surprise. "Don’t be silly, Lily. Who would believe that? I’m pregnant! And besides, I don’t want to be killed before my time. You have a boyfriend!" The thought of people misinterpreting their friendship sent her mind spinning.

Lily laughed, brushing off the concern. "He doesn’t mind! With recent technology, girl couples can still have kids. They can just transfer..."

"Enough!" Mira interrupted, not wanting to hear what Lily was about to say next. The thought was both ridiculous and amusing, and she felt a blush creep up her cheeks. The mere idea of people believing they were in a romantic relationship felt both absurd and oddly liberating.

Lily giggled, her infectious laughter lifting Mira’s spirits. "Come on, this will be fun!"

Lily turned as she gave James a wink.

After a moment of contemplation, Mira finally nodded, a small smile forming on her lips despite the lingering anxiety in her chest. "Okay, fine. Let’s do this." The prospect of shopping with Lily felt slightly less daunting, especially knowing her friend was by her side.

With that, they stepped forward together, ready to face whatever awaited them in the baby store. As James slowly followed behind Mira and Lily, he shook his head, a mix of amusement and concern crossing his features. Of course, he had heard their playful banter. He couldn’t wait to report back to Zamian; perhaps this would finally inspire some sense in his boss and prompt him to meet his wife. It was a hope James held close, wishing for a time when Zamian would embrace the life he had chosen and the love that awaited him.

As they approached the entrance of the baby store, Lily playfully walked ahead and held the door open with a flourish, as if she were a gentleman. She winked at Mira, who couldn’t help but smile at her friend’s antics. The playful moment lightened Mira’s heart, and she felt a glimmer of excitement. A few passersby turned to look at them, their curious expressions making the moment feel even more special.

Once inside, the atmosphere buzzed with joy and anticipation. Colorful baby items lined the shelves, and the air was filled with the soft sounds of laughter and chatter. The vibrant displays and cheerful atmosphere enveloped them like a warm hug, and Mira felt the tightness in her chest start to loosen just a bit.

"Alright, time to shop!" Lily declared, grabbing a shopping basket with a flourish. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and Mira felt herself relax a little more with each passing moment.

As Lily moved the basket, Mira spotted some colorful balloons swaying gently in the breeze. "These would be great for the decoration," she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she picked a handful of bright colors. The vibrant hues reminded her of the joy she wanted to create at the baby shower.

Lily nodded in agreement, a smile spreading across her face as they continued down the aisle. "Absolutely! We need to make this shower unforgettable."

Suddenly, Lily stopped and reached for a blue blanket card. "This would be perfect for the game section," she said, adding it to the basket with a satisfied nod. She glanced back at the display and grabbed a pink blanket card next. "And we definitely need a pink one too! It’s all about balance, right?"

Mira chuckled, enjoying the lightheartedness of their shopping trip. "I didn’t know you were so into colors," she teased, feeling a warmth spread through her.

Lily laughed, her playful demeanor infectious. "Well, if we’re going to throw the best baby shower ever, we have to pay attention to the details! Besides, it’s all about making it memorable for you."

Mira’s heart swelled with gratitude for her friend. Lily had been a constant support throughout her pregnancy, always ready with advice and encouragement. "I can’t believe how much you’ve helped me. I wouldn’t have thought about all these things if it weren’t for you."

"That’s what friends are for!" Lily replied, her eyes glinting with mischief. "Now, let’s see what else we can find to make this party unforgettable!"

They wandered deeper into the store, where rows of baby supplies awaited them. Mira picked up a few small toys—a rattle shaped like a panda and a soft plush toy that looked like a bear. "These would be great for the gift table," she said, placing them in the basket.

"Oh, those are adorable!" Lily exclaimed, leaning closer to inspect the toys. "I think your little one is going to have the cutest collection!"

Mira smiled.

"Aha!" Lily beamed when she spotted a cute baby shirt boldly printed with the words "That’s My Girl."

"This will be perfect for her," Lily said, and Mira nodded in agreement.

"Yes," Mira replied as she was about to reach for another shirt. But Lily stopped her.

"Nuh-uh! You can’t change your mind now that we’re soon having the baby shower. You said it’s a boy, so take that one!" Lily pouted, pointing at the blue shirt that read "That’s My Boy."

Mira shook her head,as smiled at Lily’s words, feeling a warmth in her heart that had been absent for so long. Just then, a friendly saleswoman approached them, her smile bright and welcoming.

"Hello! If you and your girlfriend need any help, don’t hesitate to ask," she said, her voice cheerful.

Mira’s eyes widened; she had not seen that coming and felt caught off guard by the unexpected comment. She opened her mouth to clarify when Lily spoke first.

"Of course, we will, right babe?" she said playfully, winking at Mira, who felt her cheeks flush.