The splendid honey moon

Days flew into weeks. Today was an exceptional day—Sunday. The sun was bright but not scorching. People were not in a hurry to work as they usually were on weekdays. As had become tradition, the day was kept sacred by a religious group called Christians. The devoted folks could be seen scattered in their numbers, hurrying to meet up with the sermon of the day, while others, who had no interest in religious activities, nestled in bed, enjoying the warm comfort brought by the serene atmosphere.

The Armstrong plane taxied smoothly down the runway before coming to a gradual stop at one of the designated gates of Imperial City International Airport. The passengers remained seated as the aircraft doors were connected to the jet bridge. A chime sounded overhead, followed by the captain's voice over the intercom.

"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Imperial City. The local time is 9:15 AM, and the temperature is currently 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Please remain seated with your seatbelts fastened until the seatbelt sign is turned off. We thank you for flying with us and hope to see you again soon."

The flight attendants moved efficiently, preparing for disembarkation. Helen, one of the air hostesses, stood near the front of the cabin, her professional demeanor masking the excitement bubbling within her. This was her hometown, and she had long awaited this moment.

As the seatbelt signs turned off, passengers sprang into motion, retrieving their belongings from the overhead compartments. Some chatted animatedly about their travel plans, while others looked exhausted from the long journey. The orderly shuffle toward the exit began, with airline staff offering parting pleasantries as passengers stepped onto the jet bridge leading into the terminal.

Meanwhile, in the private suite of the aircraft, Zakira Ambry stirred at the sound of the announcement. She adjusted her sunglasses, peering outside at the bustling activity beyond the small window. From her vantage point, she could see the other passengers eagerly making their way toward customs and baggage claim. The airport was alive with movement—airport staff directing travelers, security personnel patrolling the area, and loved ones waiting just beyond the glass partitions, craning their necks to spot familiar faces.

A firm knock on her cabin door interrupted her observations. She sighed, already knowing who it was.

"Ma'am…" came the deep, composed voice of her bodyguard, Dimitri.

Zakira exhaled in frustration, rolling her eyes before finally responding. "Why is he always here? Can't he give me a moment's peace?" she muttered under her breath.

Dimitri, standing tall and unreadable, was unfazed by her attitude. He had been assigned to protect her since she was ten years old, and by now, her complaints barely registered with him.

"What are you waiting for?" he asked impatiently, his tone clipped and professional.

Zakira crossed her arms. "Hey, don't talk to me like that. You're paid to protect me, not boss me around. Do your job and stay out of my business," she snapped, gathering her belongings before following her entourage off the plane and into the bustling terminal.

After spending a night at a luxurious and well-furnished hotel, Tania and Olsen flew to Canada to spend their honeymoon. This was to create a picture-perfect illusion to outsiders that they were a loving couple.

Olsen, usually rigid and aloof, did his best to keep up appearances. Tania, well aware of his arrogant personality, tried to stay out of his way. But to her utmost surprise, Olsen exceeded her expectations, making their honeymoon far more enjoyable than she had imagined.

"Dearest wife…" Olsen called out to Tania on the day they arrived in Canada, booking a suite in one of the most exquisite hotels.

Tania busied herself unpacking her belongings, placing her dresses and homewear in the closet while organizing her daily skincare products and essential oils.

"Ah…" she gasped, stunned by the way Olsen had addressed her. His voice was unexpectedly sweet, making it feel as though they were truly a real couple. Engrossed in her hazy thoughts, she missed a step and nearly lost her balance. Petrified, she shut her eyes, bracing for impact, but Olsen's quick reflexes caught her just in time.

"Tania, what were you thinking? You were in a daze! What if you had injured yourself?" he scolded, his deep magnetic eyes locked onto her.

Tania remained silent, unsure of what to say. He bombarded her with questions, not giving her a chance to reply. Rolling her beautiful peach-blossom eyes inwardly, she thought to herself. Olsen didn't miss that gesture; his gaze followed her every movement. As he openly stared at her, the proximity between them made her aware of the rhythmic beating of his heart. This was the first time he had taken a full view of her.

"Hey, get off me…" she muttered in a soft, aggrieved voice.

Realizing their awkward position, Olsen quickly stood up and moved toward the French window, acting as though nothing had happened. Tania remained perplexed in bed, her mind swirling with countless questions.

"Olsen, didn't you have something to tell me?"

Olsen, startled, could barely find his voice. What?! Did she just call my name? Still flustered, he found it hard to believe.

"Yeah… Tomorrow, I have somewhere to take you."

"Oh…"

They both retired to bed, each lost in their own thoughts. The next day came faster than expected. After a quick meal, Olsen and Tania set off on their day's trip. First, they visited Olsen's former college—one of the most prestigious institutions in Canada. The flawless, giant building stood tall and majestic among the others. Tania had heard of it before but never thought she would be visiting it so soon, and with Olsen as her guide.

Olsen showed her around, even taking her to his secret hideout—a place he had never shared with anyone. Afterward, they visited Grandma Graham's canteen. When they arrived, the elderly woman, slightly bent from old age, welcomed them just as she did every customer, assuming they were regulars.

"Grandma, it's me. Don't you recognize me anymore?" Olsen called out.

Grandma Graham looked up, trying hard to recollect. With her shaking fingers, she motioned toward him, pointing in surprise.

"Olsen…" she whispered, still staring. "Is this really you? You've changed so much."

She suddenly noticed Tania standing beside him. Tania greeted her respectfully, her charming smile revealing deep dimples. Her porcelain skin glowed under the sunlight filtering through the translucent window. Grandma Graham marveled at her beauty.

"Olsen, who is this beautiful young lady you brought here?"

"She's my wife," Olsen answered.

Grandma Graham beamed cheerfully and walked over to Tania with her cane. "Thank you, my dear, for agreeing to be his wife. Olsen has been through a lot. I'm so glad he brought you here before I leave this world."

"Grandma… please sit." Tania led her to a chair, sensing her weakness. But Grandma Graham still held onto her hands as if afraid she would vanish.

"Just promise me, child—you will never leave him."

"I… promise," Tania vowed without much thought.

Their honeymoon continued with visits to interesting places, including the cinema, where they created unforgettable memories. They even rode a roller coaster, taking numerous pictures, and Olsen, unexpectedly, initiated a kiss, adding a touch of romance to their trip.

Just as time flies, the day came when they had to return home.