I'm Proud of You

The drive back from Alexander's family estate was quiet, the tension of the evening slowly unraveling. Mia stared out the window, her mind replaying every word, every glance exchanged during the dinner. She had held her own, but the weight of their scrutiny lingered.

Alexander reached over, his hand finding hers, squeezing gently. "You did great tonight, Mia. They see your strength, just as I do."

Mia turned to him, her eyes softening. "I hope so. It felt like every word was being measured."

"They were, but you handled it perfectly," he assured her, his thumb brushing over her knuckles. "We'll face this together, just like everything else."

When they arrived home, the exhaustion of the day threatened to overwhelm her. But as they stepped inside, Alexander pulled her into an embrace, his warmth surrounding her. Mia leaned into him, the tension melting away as his arms tightened around her.

"I'm proud of you," he murmured, his breath warm against her ear.

Mia tilted her head up, their eyes locking. In that moment, the world outside faded, leaving only the two of them. Alexander cupped her face, his thumb tracing her cheekbone. There was a softness in his gaze, an unspoken promise of support and love.

Mia felt her heart race, the intensity of their connection reigniting. Without another word, Alexander leaned down, capturing her lips in a tender yet passionate kiss. It was a kiss that spoke of solace, of grounding each other amidst the storms they faced.

As their kiss deepened, Mia allowed herself to forget the pressures of the world outside. In Alexander's arms, she found a sanctuary, a moment of peace in the chaos of their lives.

This night was theirs, a reminder that amidst the battles they fought, their love was a powerful force, one that could weather any storm.