Wife

Leonard stepped into the softly lit room, immediately noticing the way Vivian seemed to be lost in her own world. Seated on the edge of the bed, she gazed out through the expansive glass window, absorbing the early morning light and the promise of a new day. The blanket was artfully draped across her, leaving her shoulder and back exposed, revealing the unmistakable mark Leonard had left on her skin. A quiet smile spread across his face at the sight, a mixture of tenderness and pride that only deepened the connection between them.

Though he knew that Vivian would likely be irked by his unexpected arrival, she had become accustomed to waking to the soft murmur of solitude, the fact that she hadn't eaten since yesterday afternoon was of greater concern. He resolved that nourishing her body would take precedence over his own wish to bask in her unguarded morning beauty. Despite the lingering regret of not being the first person to greet her, Leonard's mind was set: breakfast was essential.

In his heart, he battled a gentle sorrow for not witnessing the raw, unfiltered emotion of Vivian's first waking moments. That initial vulnerability was something he cherished, yet the practical need to care for her outweighed any selfish desire to remain a silent observer.

He had the power to summon food with magic, but such spells, especially those that coax nature to serve man, always exacted a price even though the price is nothing much, it is not advisable, Leonard cherished the art of cooking, however modest his skills might not be compared to Vivian's exclusive imperial chef.

His ambition was to create a meal with his own hands, one that resonated with the care and effort he felt every time he cooked, even if his techniques were more reminiscent of a five-star restaurant than of divine culinary artistry.

"Wife," he called softly, using a term of endearment he had never reserved for her before. The word carried with it both warmth and a quiet declaration of intimacy that went beyond the customary "my lady."

For Vivian, the day had begun in quiet isolation, her mind wandering between memories and the beauty of nature beyond the glass. The previous day's incident, a blurring of emotions and a lingering sense of loss, had distracted her from truly appreciating the environment. Now, as she remained confined within the walls of their sanctuary, a part of her mourned the world outside, the vibrant life that lay just beyond reach.

Only when Leonard's familiar voice broke through her reverie did she stir. "Wife." The sound startled her, and as she turned, her eyes widened in disbelief. This was not the gentle figure of formality she had grown used to; today, Leonard exuded an uncharacteristic boldness.

What caught her breath even more was the vision before her: Leonard stood with only his trousers, his well-sculpted chest boldly on display, holding a tray brimming with a carefully prepared breakfast. The gentle glow of the morning light accentuated every line and curve of his body, and his smile carried a hint of mischief and unabashed affection.

A flush crept up Vivian's cheeks as she struggled to compose herself. The sight was simultaneously overwhelming and dangerous, so much raw, undeniable beauty that it threatened to unbalance her already fragile state.

Part of her mind screamed caution, while another part reveled in the allure of his daring display. if not for the soreness in her body warning her of danger, she might have thrown herself at him right then. Is he trying to use his charm as a trap? she wondered with a mixture of irritation and desire.

In that moment, every fiber of her being vibrated with conflicting emotions, her heart pounded, thoughts raced, and despite her usually guarded nature, she felt an irresistible pull towards him.

This much beauty should be illegal. The situation was worsened by the fact that the original Vivian's lingering emotions were stirring inside her — her heart raced, her mind clouded, and for a brief moment, Vivian wondered if she was just hopelessly boy-crazy.

After all, growing up surrounded by handsome men hadn't made her immune. Just like Arthur had proven her wrong before, Leonard was doing it now.

"You're drooling," Leonard teased, a playful glint in his eyes that cut through the tension like a knife through silk. His remark was light, yet layered with an intimacy that left her momentarily speechless.

In a flustered haze, Vivian tried to discreetly wipe her mouth, only to find that her own shock had betrayed her. Her eyes met Leonard's, and his expression shifted from playful mischief to a gentle concern. "Look at me like that, and I might lose control," he murmured, his tone both warning and affectionate.

"Imagine if we picked up right where we left off last night, it would mean no breakfast for either of us. Besides, you haven't eaten since yesterday afternoon, and I'm not sure your body could handle that kind of energy right now."

With deliberate care, Leonard placed the tray of food on the bed. The aroma of freshly prepared dishes filled the room, mingling with the lingering fragrance of morning dew that drifted through the open window. Without a moment's hesitation, he drew Vivian into his arms, enveloping her in a warm, protective embrace. Leaning in, he pressed a soft kiss to her forehead, a silent promise of care and affection.

"Good morning, wife," he whispered tenderly, the title resonating with both novelty and the comfort of deep, abiding love.

In a final, thoughtful gesture, Leonard extended his hand. With a subtle movement, he materialized an elegant indoor dress—a sleeveless, white gown crafted from soft, breathable fabric that would keep her comfortable and accentuate her natural grace. "I figured leaving you as you are might be dangerous for me," he said with a charming smile, "so it's best for both of us that you're dressed and ready to start the day."

Taking up the spoon as if it were a scepter of care, he ushered her toward the tray. "Now, my love, it's time for you to eat," he said, his voice a blend of command and invitation that left no room for refusal.

In that intimate, sunlit moment, the room transformed into a haven of love and renewal. Every gesture, every word was imbued with the quiet magic of everyday tenderness, a reminder that even in the chaos of life, the simplest acts of care could weave a tapestry of beauty and connection.