Chapter Eleven: Wrapped in love

After dinner, James and Charlotte returned home, their fingers still intertwined as they walked through the grand entrance of the mansion. The night had been perfect—filled with laughter, soft touches, and words neither of them had ever imagined saying.

Charlotte sighed as she slipped off her heels. "I think I ate too much."

James chuckled, loosening the buttons of his shirt. "I warned you about ordering dessert."

She playfully rolled her eyes. "You ordered it for me."

"And you still ate every bite," he teased.

Charlotte crossed her arms. "It was good."

James smirked, stepping closer. "And you're adorable when you're flustered."

She felt her cheeks warm under his gaze. "I'm going to shower," she muttered, turning toward the bathroom.

But before she could walk away, James caught her wrist. His eyes darkened with something deeper, something more intimate.

"I'll join you," he murmured.

Charlotte's breath hitched. There was no hesitation in his touch, only quiet certainty. And the truth was, she didn't want to be alone.

She nodded.

A Night of Intimacy

The warm water cascaded over them as steam filled the bathroom. James stood behind Charlotte, his hands trailing over her arms as he gently washed away the tension of the day.

He wasn't rushing, wasn't demanding. He was simply there, taking care of her in a way no one ever had before.

Charlotte closed her eyes, letting herself lean into his touch. "I never thought marriage could be like this."

James kissed her shoulder. "Neither did I."

When they finally stepped out of the shower, James wrapped a towel around her before drying her hair himself. It was such a simple, intimate act, but it made Charlotte's heart swell.

They slipped into bed together, James pulling her close against his chest. His arms were strong, protective, holding her as if he never wanted to let go.

Charlotte traced small circles on his chest. "I think I'm finally happy."

James kissed the top of her head. "Then I'll make sure you stay that way."

Charlotte smiled, closing her eyes as she drifted off to sleep, safe in the arms of the man she had grown to love.