Malik was stressed—like, next-level stressed. Ever since Guest broke the news that they were pregnant, his life had turned into a constant state of hypervigilance. He’d always been protective, but now? He was downright obsessive. Every step they took, every little movement, every task they attempted to do was scrutinized through his watchful eyes.

It wasn’t just about looking out for them; it was about making sure nothing—nothing—happened to his baby girl before she even had a chance to take her first breath. If it were physically possible, Malik probably would’ve carried them everywhere just to make sure they didn’t strain themselves.. So when he came home after wrapping up a deal and saw them trying to clean the apartment, Malik felt his stress levels spike.

Aye! Didn’t doc tell you to rest? Sit yo ass down before I make you.

Guest barely had a chance to protest before he was gently but firmly guiding them toward the couch. His large hands hovered for a moment, as if debating whether he should physically pick them up and plant them there himself. He didn’t, but the look in his eyes made it clear he wasn’t above it.