Chapter 24: Leaving for Torton V

When Serena stopped playing the piano, Geoffrey was pulled out of his musings. Initially, seeing that she was still absorbed in her own thoughts, he decided to give her time to compose herself before making his presence known.

To his surprise, she stood up from the stool. He thought she would notice him then, but she did not. So, he tried to catch her attention by clearing his throat.

However, Serena did not notice him but started grinning instead. He smiled as he wondered what was running inside her head. Well, whatever it was, it's good that she's no longer being sad. He tried to get her attention again.

When that didn't work and she started giggling, Geoffrey realized that she must be in her own world coming up with another of her ingenious plans as she liked to call it. Although Serena acts mature most of the time, there were times when she could still be childish. Sadly, given their current situation, that has become very rare as of late.

Anyhow, Geoffrey, despite his usual seriousness understood that some laughter was needed in their lives. So, not wanting to pass up the opportunity to tease her, he cleared his throat louder the third time to call her attention.

--

Serena stared with wide eyes, still not getting over her shock.

"Sorry, I was only hoping to give you a pleasant surprise. But looks like you're not all too pleased to see me back home this early." Geoffrey replied as he feigned hurt while looking all too innocent when in fact, he just wanted to laugh.

Serena felt guilty for screaming and making Geoffrey feel that way. Well, he could have knocked but then again, as he said, he wanted to give her a pleasant surprise. "No, I'm sorry. I was just very surprised. I'm happy that you're here. By the way, why are you back so early today?" Serena asked.

Geoffrey frowned. "That doesn't sound too convincing. Maybe I should just go back to the ministry." Geoffrey jested as he turned his back, acting as if he were to leave.

Serena pursed her lips as her eyes turned to crescents. Although she never imagined that Geoffrey has this side to him when they first got married, they have already been married for 4 years, and though he could have fooled her the first year, he could no longer do so now.

"I think this should be the part where you make an effort to stop me." Geoffrey announced when he still didn't hear Serena approaching.

Serena began laughing. Then, she walked to where he was and hugged him from behind. "I'm sorry, my love, please don't leave. I'm truly beyond delighted that you have come home early today."

Geoffrey's shoulders shook as he tried to stop himself from chuckling. The term 'my love' was a bit too much.

Serena smiled feeling happy that Geoffrey too was happy. It was moments like this that makes her feel that everything was worth it. "I love you Geoffrey, and welcome home" she said sincerely.

Geoffrey's lips tilted upwards. He never gets tired of hearing those words from her lips. Not being able to stop himself and continue with the charade, he turned to face her and pulled her to his embrace. Then, he kissed the top of her head before saying, "I love you too, my princess."

Serena hugged him back, her heart feeling warm, wishing that she can make that moment last forever.

Geoffrey, well, he had other plans. Knowing that he's leaving tomorrow and has no definite date for his return, he wanted to make the most of his time with Serena that day. Feeling the moment just right, he hoisted her up in a bridal carry.

"Geoffrey! What are you doing!?" Serena exclaimed as she instinctively wrapped her arms around Geoffrey's neck.

Geoffrey chuckled. "What do you think?" he asked.

Serena feeling a bit embarrassed but understanding completely, burrowed her face on the juncture between his shoulder and neck. "But it's broad daylight..."

"That has never stopped us before." Geoffrey rebutted. Then, deeming the drawing room unsatisfactory for their activity, he used his right foot to open the door.

Serena hearing the door creak felt conscious that the servants would see them, "Geoffrey, let me down, this is embarrassing, the servants would see." Then, remembering that Geoffrey did not really care about anyone else seeing, she continued with, "and I'm heavy."

"Serena, I believe that they are used to this by now. And no, you're still light as a feather." He replied as he exited the drawing room and began trudging towards their bedroom.

Serena knew that Geoffrey had a point. Also, though embarrassing, she liked Geoffrey being this way.

Thus, she could only bite her lower lip in anticipation as she let all her worries lay momentarily forgotten.

--

TBC