Sophia's lashes fluttered as Ethan's handsome face suddenly loomed close.

His lips pressed against hers with a cool touch.

The village streetlamp cast a dim glow, and occasional villagers passed by. Sophia's ears burned as her fingers clutched the hem of his shirt.

"Don't..." She turned her face away. "Grandma just—"

Before she could finish, he gripped her chin and turned her back. Dark intensity swirled in Ethan's eyes as his thumb brushed her soft lips.

"Close your eyes."

The kiss was fierce and urgent, as if he wanted to devour her whole. Pinned against the car door, Sophia winced at the sharp pain in her back.

Only when her legs trembled did Ethan finally release her. His thumb grazed her damp lower lip, voice rough. "No divorce."

Not a question—a declaration.

Sophia's chest rose and fell rapidly. "Your father—"

"Leave it to me." He cut her off, interlacing their fingers. "Let's go home."

As he turned, Ethan glanced toward the pond's opposite bank. The swaying trees stood empty. A cold smirk curled his lips.

So this was jealousy.

Grace barged into the bedroom with a bowl of chicken soup just as Ethan was massaging Sophia's temples.

"Drink it while it's hot." She set the bowl heavily on the nightstand but fixed her son-in-law with a stare. "Take Sophia back to the city tonight."

Sophia looked up in surprise. "Mom—"

"Don't you know what your grandmother worries about most?" Grace's eyes suddenly reddened. "She needs to see you two happy before she can go in peace."

Ethan tested the soup's temperature before handing it to Sophia. "We'll listen to Mom."

The highway at night stretched like a river of stars. Gazing at the passing lights outside, Sophia's phone buzzed.

[Sweetheart, I've thought it through.] Grace's message popped up. [The way Ethan looks at you—that can't be faked.]

Sophia's finger hovered over the screen, unable to reply.

[Don't be as stubborn as I was in my youth.] Another message followed. [Sometimes it's okay to compromise.]

The car jolted slightly as Ethan's warm hand covered her cold one.

When the shower stopped running, Sophia sat dazed at the vanity. The hair dryer hummed to life, warm air threading through her damp strands.

"I can—"

"Stay still." Ethan's long fingers combed through her wet hair. "I never noticed how sweet your hair smelled before."

Sophia watched him in the mirror. The steam had softened his sharp features, and each accidental brush of his fingertips sent tiny shivers down her spine.

The bedside lamp dimmed to its lowest setting. Ethan pulled her close, rhythmically patting her back.

"I'm not a child—"

"Mm." He kissed her crown. "You're my treasure."

Sophia's ears burned as she buried her face in his chest. Exhaustion washed over her in waves, lulled by his faint cedar scent.

Morning light filtered through the sheer curtains to reveal Ethan propped on one elbow, watching her. His lashes cast delicate shadows, his gaze so intense it made her heart stutter.

"Morning." His sleep-roughened voice curled around her as he twirled a lock of her hair. "Dream of me?"

Crystal shrimp dumplings and red date congee waited on the table. As Ethan fastened his cufflinks, Sophia naturally reached for his navy tie.

"Being this obedient today?" He suddenly caught her hands mid-motion.

Sophia tilted her head. "Hm?"

"Promise me." Ethan nuzzled her nose. "Don't go anywhere today."

"But—"

"Just stay with me." He pulled her into a tight embrace, warm breath fanning her ear. "I wish I could shrink you down to pocket size."

Sophia laughed, but his next words froze her in place.

"That way, no one could ever steal you away."