Sunlight streamed through the restoration room's glass windows as Sophia Laurent meticulously applied the final touches to a Song Dynasty landscape painting.

Footsteps echoed from downstairs.

Iris Evans entered Antique Treasures carrying a stack of documents. Seeing Sophia at work, she quietly waited in the first-floor reception area.

It was nearly noon when Sophia finally set down her brush and descended.

"Sophia!" Iris's eyes lit up as she hurried forward. "I need your help with an urgent project."

Sophia handed her a cup of tea. "What's so important?"

"A Warring States noble's tomb was discovered in Dorset Village. The murals and silk paintings need immediate restoration." Iris lowered her voice. "My supervisor specifically requested you."

Sophia tapped her teacup thoughtfully. "I thought you worked at the museum?"

"Transferred to the archaeology team." Iris beamed. "My expertise is tomb structures—finally putting my degree to use."

"Northwest region?"

"Yes, about 500 miles from the capital." Iris grasped her hand. "Those silk paintings will oxidize upon air exposure. You're the only one who can replicate them in time."

Sophia considered this. "Does your brother know?"

"Of course!" Iris patted her chest. "Sophia, this is about preserving national treasures."

Gazing out the window, Sophia reflected. She'd restored countless antiquities but never visited an active dig site.

"Alright, I'll go."

That evening, Ethan Sullivan pushed open their bedroom door to find Sophia packing.

Leaning against the doorframe, his voice turned cool. "How long do you plan to disappear this time?"

She continued folding clothes without looking up. "About two weeks."

"Two weeks?" Ethan strode over and slammed the suitcase shut. "Sophia, have you forgotten you're married?"

Meeting his gaze, she couldn't suppress a laugh. "Is the mighty CEO sulking?"

He gripped her chin. "I'm serious."

"A Warring States tomb was found in Dorset Village—they need mural restoration." She wrapped her arms around his waist. "Iris recommended me."

Ethan frowned. "You'd go to that wilderness?"

"There's a professional archaeology team."

"No." His tone brooked no argument. "Either I accompany you, or you take bodyguards."

Sophia sighed. "This is work, not a vacation."

After a long stare, Ethan suddenly swept her into his arms and tossed her onto the bed.

"Then we're making up for those two weeks now."

The next morning, Sophia rubbed her aching back and glared. "Ethan Sullivan, are you part wolf?"

He leisurely adjusted his tie. "Remember—three video calls daily."

At airport security, Ethan obsessively checked her luggage.

"Sunscreen? Mosquito repellent?"

"Packed everything." She fought a smile.

Suddenly, he cupped her head and kissed her deeply amidst the crowd.

"Come home soon."

Blushing, Sophia nodded and turned toward security.

"Sophia."

She glanced back to see him standing perfectly tailored yet visibly forlorn.

"Miss me."

Her heart swelled. Rushing back, she brushed her lips against his. "Every day."

Long after she disappeared through security, Ethan remained. Two black-suited bodyguards discreetly followed Sophia before he finally walked away.