Chapter 43

• "New Beginnings Surrogacy Agency," Emma read from the brass plaque beside the office door. Her stomach fluttered with nervous energy as Alek's hand settled at the small of her back.
• "We're just gathering information," he reminded her gently. "No decisions today."
• Emma nodded, grateful for his careful approach. Two weeks after Jack and Veronica's baby shower, she'd surprised Alek by suggesting they explore surrogacy options—not committing, just understanding what the journey might entail.