CHAPTER 39: THE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE I

CHAPTER 39: THE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE I

The weekend blurred past, as Saturday dawned bright. Morning light streamed across the room as James woke to Diana nestled on his chest. A surge of warmth, and new sense of peace, unfamiliar and liberating, washed over him.

He had planned with her that she was going to be meeting his friends the next day being Sunday in the evening. But this Saturday, he really wanted to take her shopping. He wanted to make today all about her.

The past week had been a whirlwind of Diana's attentive care – not just for him, but for his staff, his brother, even his secretary. His brother and secretary became so bold that they came to steal meals every once in a while within the week. Their house had thrummed with a gentle energy he hadn't felt in years, and his sleep, once plagued by restlessness, had finally found its rhythm and the beautiful woman beside him, oblivious to her impact, was the key.

Now, as she slumbered on his chest, a radiant sunbeam, he felt a surge of gratitude. He liked her, that much he knew. Love remained a mystery, but a silent vow bloomed within him: to keep her by his side, his demons be damned.

Diana stirred, her eyes fluttering open. Blinking away the morning light, she met his gaze, a radiant smile blooming on her face. "Good morning, hubby," she greeted, stretching languidly.

James returned her smile, leaning in for a chaste kiss. "Good morning, wife." The kiss was sweet and fleeting, leaving Diana wanting more and as a reminder of their shared desires.

Throughout the week, he had respected himself and been careful, respecting her unspoken boundaries because every time they made out, she always stopped him at the middle. Now, with her pain a fading memory, she wasn't sure how to navigate the new terrain of their desire and ask him to take it further.

"How was your night?" James asked, pulling her from her thoughts.

"Peaceful," she replied, leaning back against him. "Yours?".

James nodded, a playful gleam in his eyes. "Not bad." He pinched her cheek playfully, enjoying the way her smile widened.

Diana stretched, a sigh escaping her lips as she yawned.

"Are you hungry?" his voice rumbled, a low tremor against her skin.

"More like bored," she admitted, sighing and snuggling closer, a hint of tiredness in her eyes.

"Don't worry," he promised, his voice laced with mischief, "That won't be for long."

"Diana turned to him, curiosity sparking. "Something happening today?"

"Indeed," he confirmed. "I'm taking you shopping."

Her smile broadened. "Shopping? Why?"

"Your work starts next week," he explained, "and you need a wardrobe refresh. Plus, your nightwear situation is... dire, needs a serious upgrade." He winked. "Or I could just have them bring the mall to you, you can pick whatever you want."

Diana laughed, her joy palpable. "Where's the fun in that? I'll rather go out" she countered, planting a kiss on his lips "I can't wait!" she exclaimed, clapping her hands together.

James chuckled, shaking his head. "Besides, there's something else."

"Oh?" Diana raised an eyebrow.

"First," he said, a playful smirk dancing on his lips, "you need a new name for me. 'Hubby' isn't cutting it anymore."

Diana's brow furrowed in confusion.

"It's too generic," he explained, when he noticed her confusion, mimicking a boyish childish pout.

Diana understood, a smile playing on her lips. "What should I call you, then?" she asked.

James smirked. "That's for you to decide, honey. If I tell you, it loses its magic." He tapped her forehead playfully.

Diana laughed, a bubbling cascade, and a mischievous glint sparked in her eyes. "How about Treasure?" she whispered, her lips brushing his.

"I love it," James breathed, pulling her close. "Come here," he murmured, showering her with kisses. Lost in their own blissful world, they savored the morning in bed before showering, dressing, and heading down for a late breakfast.

* * * * * * * * *

The Canary Wharf sun dipped low, casting long shadows as James and Diana made it out for their shopping.

Diana, in her usual jeans, oversized polo, and boots, had ditched the cap today. Her straightened hair cascaded down her back, framing a smile as bright as the spring sun. She had decided to walk the little distance from where they stopped.

She skipped along the sidewalk, carefree and animated. James watched, mesmerized, by the joy radiating from her even as he barely responded to her chatter. He felt his blood set ablaze. He wanted her, right here, right now. The wait had been too long. He couldn't let this night slip away otherwise he was going to lose it.

Reaching the mall, Antonio trailed behind as they entered the familiar air of luxury. The manager and staff bowed deeply to them by the door where they had been waiting for the couple, but Diana, eager to browse, tugged James towards the shop's glittering displays.

He stopped her hand, guiding her instead to a private room. Their entourage followed, trailing like loyal courtiers. only the manager entering with them, leaving Antonio and the rest behind.

Once Inside, Diana turned to her husband, perplexed. "What are we doing here?"

"Shopping," James replied, his voice husky with anticipation.

"But there are no clothes here," she pouted, eyes scanning the bare room.

James turned to the manager, still slightly bent in deference with a hint of impatience in his voice. "Where are the clothes, Lawson?"

Lawson chuckled nervously, bowing deeper. "Ma'am, the clothes are on their way. In the meantime, may I arrange for someone to assist you? What kind of clothes would you prefer?"

James cut in, his voice clipped. "Bring everything you have. Now."

Lawson paled but nodded, scurrying away.