**Her Rise 413**
**Chapter 413: I’m Happy for Athena**
Zaden swiftly reached for the nearest pillow, expertly positioning it behind Athena’s back. He then draped a soft jacket over her shoulders, each movement fluid and instinctual, as if he had been performing this ritual for years. Caring for her had become an integral part of his daily life, a rhythm he had settled into seamlessly.
Even though a month had passed since Athena had brought their child into the world, Zaden still treated her with the tenderness one might reserve for a delicate porcelain doll, mindful of her every need and discomfort.
“How are you feeling today? Is your back still bothering you?” Zaden inquired, settling on the edge of the bed. His fingers began to work their way gently across her lower back, where an old injury still lingered like an unwelcome shadow. The strain had intensified as her pregnancy progressed, and despite his diligent care, there were moments when the pain would flare up unexpectedly.
“It’s much better today,” Athena replied, a smile brightening her face as she leaned into his touch. Her eyes wandered to the crib, where their son lay peacefully sleeping. “He was so well-behaved last night. Only woke up once, allowing me to enjoy a full night of sleep.”
“He’s thoughtful, just like his mother,” Zaden chuckled softly, his heart swelling with pride at the thought of their little family.
The morning light streamed into the room, casting a warm glow that enveloped them in a serene embrace. Just then, Beverly’s voice floated in from the doorway, deliberately softened. “Is everyone awake? My precious grandson must be famished by now!”
Moments later, Beverly appeared at the threshold, a radiant smile on her face, accompanied by a maid who balanced a breakfast tray laden with delicious treats.
Since the moment Beverly had learned of Athena’s pregnancy, her demeanor had undergone a complete transformation. She had taken it upon herself to ensure Athena was cared for around the clock, her nurturing instincts kicking into high gear.
In her mind, with Elijah still unmarried and without children, the arrival of Athena and Zaden’s baby—well, actually two babies—would surely shift the balance in their family dynamics. The prospect of Drake starting to pay them only added fuel to her ambitions, igniting a fierce desire to see her daughter and son-in-law succeed, perhaps even overshadowing Elijah in the eyes of the family.
Zaden and Athena exchanged knowing glances, a mixture of amusement and resignation filling the air as they contemplated Beverly’s relentless aspirations.
But truth be told, they found themselves relieved. At least Beverly was no longer a source of tension for Athena; that alone felt like a victory worth celebrating.
Beverly leaned over the crib, her expression radiating pure joy as she gazed at the sleeping baby. “Oh, look at him! Isn’t he just the most beautiful thing?”
“Mom, why are you here so early again?” Zaden asked, a helpless smile tugging at his lips. “You’ll disturb Athena’s sleep.”
“What? Can’t a grandmother check on her precious grandson?” Beverly shot back playfully, her eyes sparkling as she moved closer to the crib to get a better look at the baby.


VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: From Betrayal to Brilliance Her Rise to a New Life