"Mark… can we stay here for a few more days?" Aurora asked softly as they lay in bed, wrapped in each other's warmth, the moonlight light streaming through the drapes.
He stroked her arm gently. "You can stay if that's what you want, but I can't stay here with you." She looked up at him, puzzled. "Why not?" Mark sighed. "It's inappropriate, you know. And… your dad doesn't seem to like me that much."
There was a long pause before he added, "I'll be leaving tomorrow."Aurora lowered her gaze and forced a smile, though her heart dipped. "Okay… if that's what will make you happy." Mark cleared his throat, shifting slightly. "Aurora, about Ralph…"
"Please stop," she interrupted, her voice calm but firm. "I don't want to talk about her. I know women like her desperate for attention and validation. But I trust you, Mark. I really do."
Mark stared at her, deeply moved. "Thank you. You have no idea how much that means to me." He leaned closer. "I love you, Aurora."
She hesitated just a bit, then parted her lips. "I love you too, with all my heart."
He sat up immediately, a wide smile breaking across his face. "Say that again. Please."
She laughed softly. "I love you, Mark Ryan Wilson, with all my soul. You've done nothing but bring joy into my life. You make me feel… alive." Mark blinked back emotion as Aurora sat up to face him. She leaned in and kissed him sweet, slow, and filled with everything she couldn't put into words. His hands found her waist, pulling her closer until her body was pinned gently against his.
"I love you, Aurora," he whispered in between kisses. His lips explored her skin, his tongue dancing with hers as the kiss deepened. Aurora's fingers roamed his chest, his back, his shoulders her need for him growing by the second. I can't live a day without you," he murmured, then lowered his head, grazing her skin with a kiss, and gently biting her nipple, eliciting a soft gasp that echoed off the walls.
They held each other tightly, losing track of time in their passion. And when the fire had burned into warmth, they drifted into a peaceful sleep in each other's arms.
"Good morning, Mom," Aurora greeted, her smile radiant and uncontainable.
Kim glanced at her daughter and raised a curious brow. "Morning, my dear. You look… vibrant today. And you're glowing! Tell me, what happened? "Nothing happened, Mom," Aurora answered coyly, "I'm just… happy."
Kim smirked knowingly. "Mmm-hmm."
Where's Mark?" Mom asked, pouring herself some tea.
"He left early. Said he had a lot of work to catch up on at the office. But he promised to pick me up after work." Mom pouted. "Aww, so you're leaving me already?" Aurora gave a playful sigh. "Looks like it. But I'll survive… maybe."Come on, Mom! I'll visit you every day, I promise. "You sure about that?" Of course I am."
"Where's everyone "? Kim set her cup down. "Well, your dad left for the hospital, your grandmother is taking breakfast in bed as usual. Aunt Emma went shopping, and Olivia is lounging by the pool."Wow, everyone's living their best life today," Aurora chuckled.
"Oh, and my friend Lisa will be coming over later. She's going to help me plan the ball. Want to join us?" Aurora shook her head. "Nah, I'll just be in my room. You two will have more fun without me." Kim shrugged. "Alright, dear."
The front door opened, and in swept Lisa Dark Hart, dressed in designer from head to toe, her sunglasses perched dramatically atop her forehead. "My God, Lisa, look at you!" Kim squealed with delight. Lisa rolled her eyes dramatically. "Oh spare me the flattery, Kim. You look absolutely stunning as always."
Kim blushed, embracing her. "It's always a blessing to have you here. I'm so glad you're helping me plan the ball."Darling, what are friends for?" Lisa replied, her voice dripping in elegance.Kim ushered her to the lounge, where plush couches and a tray of sparkling lemonades and gourmet snacks awaited.
The maids hovered, ready to serve.
As they settled in, Kim asked, "So, how have you been?" Lisa groaned. "Don't ask, my dear. My son Leo is married to a nobody. God knows where he found her." Kim's eyes widened. "Oh my God Leo's married? That's wonderful news!" Lisa waved her hand in irritation. "Please, spare me the enthusiasm. I've had no choice but to accept her. I swear she looks like she just climbed out of some farmer's barn."
"Lisa!" Kim gasped, laughing. "Come on now, don't be like that. Accept her regardless of where she's from. I'm sure Leo had his reasons. These kids today are unpredictable." Lisa sighed, sipping her lemonade. "You're always so reasonable, Kim. That's why I keep you around." Kim smiled softly, but her mind wandered thinking about her own in-laws, and the judgment she still faced after all these years.
Meanwhile…
Mark sat at his office, his phone buzzing every few seconds with media updates and shareholder calls. Yet all he could think about was Aurora the peace he felt with her, the way she trusted him despite the chaos Ralph tried to stir. He clenched his jaw, remembering Ralph's words. That woman was a timebomb.
No one threatens my peace.
He picked up the phone. "Leo. Handle it. She's messing with my life." Leo chuckled from the other end. "Say no more, brother. I'll make sure Ralph forgets her own name before she ever utters yours again." Mark leaned back in his chair, eyes fixed on the skyline. The world saw a powerful businessman. But beneath the expensive suit and iron reputation… he was just a man hopelessly in love.