......
"That's true, but I'm still embarrassed." Maria smiled and blushed. "By the way, I haven't congratulated you on your success in terminating your contract."
Liam looked at her with burning passion in his eyes. "It's all thanks to you. You're the brightest star in my life. I'm so fortunate to have you, Maria."
His words sent her heart racing.
"Don't mention it," she replied, shaking her head.
Liam lowered his voice and asked, "Shall we celebrate?"
"How?" Maria tilted her head and thought for a moment. "How about I give you a present?"
Liam shook his head and said, "The best gift I could have is you."
Without giving her a chance to stop him, he lowered his head and kissed her on the lips.
They fell back onto the bed.
There was no need to explain what happened next.
In an upstairs room.
When Ernest finished reading his book, he could not shake the feeling that it was a cold and lonely night.