[Bonus chapter] The Warmth of Intimacy

Melody's eyes shot open as the plane hit turbulence, causing her to feel like she was in a bumpy rollercoaster ride. She gripped the armrest tightly, trying to steady herself. Suddenly, she heard Morgan's voice, and it took her a moment to register that he was asking if she was okay.

"Yeah, I'm fine," she lied, trying to sound nonchalant despite the fact that she was holding on for dear life. "I just needed to stretch my fingers for a moment," she added, hoping that Morgan wouldn't catch on to her fear.

He looked at her skeptically, raising an eyebrow. "Stretch your fingers? Mel, you were holding onto that armrest like it was a lifeline," he teased, a smile playing on his lips.

Melody blushed, feeling embarrassed at being caught. "Okay, maybe I was a little scared," she admitted, holding up her hands in surrender. "But I'm okay now," she added, with a weak smile.