"Do you have to leave tonight?" Lana asked, absentmindedly staring into her bowl.

"In a couple of days," Kai replied.

"Can't you stay? I don't want you to go," Lana said, hoping to keep Kai by her side.

Kai remained silent for a moment before finally speaking, "It's different this time. The mission is critical, and they need me to complete it."

"Alright, I support you. You're the best. When you come up with a groundbreaking cancer treatment, both the baby and I will be so proud of you," she said with a warm smile.

Kai grinned and caressed her hair gently. He said, "Then wait here for me, okay? I worry about you being alone at home. The hospital is close to the research institute, and I'll visit whenever I can."

"I understand. I'll wait here for you," Lana said.

After dinner, Kai washed the dishes before retreating to his room for a bath. When he was done, he left a single bedside lamp on. Just as sleep began to claim him, he heard the door creak open. Lana, clad in maternity paj