The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow over the ValenTech estate as Aurora and Windie returned from their eventful shopping trip. The grand foyer echoed with their footsteps, accompanied by Windie's animated recounting of the day's events.
"And then," Windie exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement, "Aurora pulled out that sleek black card and bought the dress right under Lexi's nose! You should've seen Lexi's face priceless!"
Aurora chuckled softly, setting down the elegantly wrapped packages. "It wasn't about the dress. It was about standing up for what's right."
Windie nodded, admiration evident in her gaze. "You're amazing, Aurora. Kai is lucky to have you."
Later that evening, during Kai's therapy session, the atmosphere was serene. The room was filled with the calming scent of eucalyptus, and soft instrumental music played in the background.
As Aurora adjusted the acupuncture needles, Kai broke the silence. "Aurora, may I ask you something?"
She looked up, meeting his gaze. "Of course."
He hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Why did you choose to marry me? Especially when your sister didn't want to because of... my condition."
Aurora's eyes softened. She took his hand gently. "Kai, I didn't marry you out of pity or obligation. I married you because I see the strength, intelligence, and kindness in you. Your condition doesn't define who you are."
He looked away, emotion flickering in his eyes. "Thank you, Aurora."
A moment of silence passed before Kai spoke again, determination in his voice. "I want to try standing today. I need to see if I can."
Aurora nodded, her grip on his hand firm. "I'm here with you. Let's take it one step at a time."
With Aurora's support, Kai slowly shifted his weight, his muscles trembling with effort. Beads of sweat formed on his forehead as he pushed himself upward.
For a brief moment, he stood, unsteady but upright. A mixture of surprise and triumph lit up his face.
Aurora's eyes welled with tears of joy. "You did it, Kai!"
He smiled, a genuine expression of hope. "It's a start."
The night had settled over the ValenTech estate, casting a serene ambiance throughout the master bedroom. After the day's events and Kai's triumphant attempt at standing, both he and Aurora were ready to retire for the evening.
Aurora stood by the wardrobe, selecting her nightdress. She chose a soft, silk gown in a shade of lavender that complemented her complexion. As she began to change, she noticed Kai watching her with a mischievous glint in his eyes.Enjoying the show?" she teased, raising an eyebrow.
Kai chuckled, the sound deep and warm. "Just appreciating the view. It's not every night I get to see my beautiful wife in such a state of undress."
Aurora rolled her eyes playfully. "Flattery will get you everywhere, Mr. Valen."
He smirked, "Noted."
As she slipped into her nightdress, Kai continued, "You know, if I'd known marriage
came with such delightful perks, I might have proposed sooner."
Aurora laughed, the sound light and genuine. "You're incorrigible."
He reached out, taking her hand gently. "Only for you."
They settled into bed, the room filled with a comfortable silence. As they lay side by side, Kai turned to her. "Thank you for today. For everything."
Aurora smiled, leaning in to kiss his forehead. "Always."The night wrapped around them, a cocoon of warmth and newfound intimacy, as they drifted into a peaceful sleep, hearts intertwined.For the first they slept like couples instead of separately as they usually do.Maybe this was the beginning of their relationship.