Episode 43

Chapter 44: A Harbor Behind the Sketches

Morning in the city felt lighter than it had in a long time.

Amelia stood on the balcony of their new apartment, not in the stiff main residence of the Arcadia family, but in Adrian's private penthouse, a place he had rarely used before.

It was warmer here, filled with natural light in a way that suited Amelia's soul.

Across the broad teak desk lay scattered sketches for the school she had promised to build for the children by the reservoir.

Amelia wanted it to be the first offering from her new design firm: Atwood Studio.

She had taken the name from her grandfather, a symbol that her family's dignity had finally been returned.

"Still working?"

The low, baritone voice came from behind her.

Adrian slipped his arms around Amelia's waist. He wore only black satin sleep pants, leaving his broad chest bare.

The scent of sandalwood soap and warm masculinity filled her senses at once.

He buried his face in the curve of her neck and pressed small kisses there, sending a shiver over her skin.

"I'm calculating the budget," Amelia whispered, trying to focus even as Adrian's touch began to scatter every number in her head.

"I want to build it with local materials, something affordable but durable. I don't want to use a single cent from Arcadia Group. This has to come from my savings and the first payment from the Palace project."

Adrian turned her gently until she faced him. The way he looked at her was deep, reverent, almost helpless.

"Do you know something, Amelia? This stubborn streak of yours is the sexiest thing I've ever seen. But tonight, could you stop being an architect and come back to being entirely my wife?"