Henry stirred awake as the faint golden light of dawn streamed through the sheer curtains, casting a soft glow over the room. The air was quiet, save for the gentle hum of the city waking below. His body was warm, wrapped in the comfort of the plush sheets and the softness of Jasmine nestled beside him.He turned his head slightly, his eyes landing on her serene face. Her dark lashes rested against her cheeks, her lips slightly parted as she slept peacefully. Her hair cascaded over the pillow like silk, and the gentle rise and fall of her chest made his heart clench with a warmth he hadn’t felt in years.Henry couldn’t resist reaching out. His fingers brushed against her cheek, featherlight, and she stirred at the touch, her eyelids fluttering open. Her sleepy gaze met his, and a soft smile spread across her lips.“Good morning,” she murmured, her voice husky from sleep.“Good morning,” Henry replied, his voice low, filled with affection. His hand moved to tuck a stray strand of hair

Jasmine sat by the window, her legs curled beneath her as the late afternoon sun bathed her in its golden light. She gazed out at the city below, her heart still racing from the memories of the morning. Her fingers absently traced the edge of the glass, the coolness grounding her as her mind swirled with thoughts of Henry.She hadn’t known it could feel like this—so overwhelming, so consuming. Every touch, every kiss, had unraveled her, leaving her bare and vulnerable, but never more alive. Her chest rose and fell with a deep, steadying breath, but the longing that lingered in her heart was undeniable.The soft creak of the bedroom door pulled her from her thoughts. She turned, her eyes meeting Henry’s as he leaned against the frame, his shirt unbuttoned and hanging loosely, revealing the taut muscles of his chest. His dark eyes held a familiar intensity, one that sent a shiver racing through her body.“Penny for your thoughts?” he asked, his voice low and smooth, the kind of voice th

The penthouse was dimly lit, the warm glow of candles casting flickering shadows across the room. Jasmine walked in cautiously, her breath catching at the sight before her. The space had been completely transformed. A trail of red rose petals led from the entrance, winding through the living room and up the stairs, each step illuminated by soft tea lights. The faint scent of jasmine and vanilla filled the air, mingling with the sound of a slow, sultry jazz melody playing in the background.Her heart raced as she followed the trail, her bare feet brushing against the soft petals. At the top of the stairs, the double doors to their bedroom were ajar, and golden light spilled through the crack. She pushed them open slowly, her eyes widening as she stepped inside.The room was bathed in a soft, golden glow. More candles lined every surface, their light dancing against the silk-draped canopy of the bed. A bottle of champagne sat chilling on a nearby table, two crystal flutes waiting beside

The days turned into weeks, and Jasmine’s pregnancy began to show. She often caught herself standing in front of the mirror, her hands cradling the small but growing bump. It was surreal, knowing that a tiny life was forming inside her, half of her and half of Henry. The emotions were overwhelming at times—joy, fear, hope, and doubt—all swirling together.Henry, on the other hand, seemed to have taken the news in stride. He was attentive, always ready with her favorite snacks when cravings struck or a pillow for her aching back. But beneath his calm exterior, Jasmine could sense his tension. There were moments when she’d catch him staring out the window, his jaw tight, his thoughts clearly elsewhere.“Henry,” she asked one evening, as they sat together in the living room. “Are you okay? You’ve seemed… distant.”He turned to her, his face softening. “I’m fine, Jasmine. Just thinking about everything. About the future.”Her fingers tightened around his. “You’re not having second thought

I The villa’s tranquil silence was shattered by the unmistakable hum of a drone overhead. Jasmine froze mid-step, her pulse quickening as she exchanged a panicked look with Henry. He straightened, his expression sharpening instantly. Eva, stationed by the window, grabbed her tablet and tapped furiously, her eyes scanning the feed from the villa’s security cameras.“We’ve got movement,” Eva announced, her tone clipped. “Three vehicles approaching from the east, no visible insignias. They’re not here for a friendly visit.”Henry’s jaw tightened, his protective instincts kicking in. He reached for the small handgun tucked into his waistband, checking the clip with practiced precision. Jasmine’s hand instinctively moved to her belly, her fear mounting as she looked between the two of them.“Henry, what’s going on?” she whispered, her voice trembling.“They’ve found us,” he said grimly, his eyes never leaving Eva. “How long do we have?”“Ten minutes, maybe less,” Eva replied, her fingers f