Their uneven breaths were the only sound in the hushed space, her hand frozen mid-air.

She blinked, stunned. That was not what she had expected.

Collin straightened, clearly amused by her dazed expression. What did you think I was going to do? he asked, lips twitching into a smirk.

Before she could stammer out a reply, he gently brushed a strand of hair from her face, his voice unexpectedly tender. Don t worry. Even if I did want to do that, now wouldn t be the time.

With that, he helped her sit upright, handling her as if she were made of porcelain.

Did I pull your hair? he asked, carefully examining the ends of her long locks.

Linsey shook her head, still a bit breathless. No

Finally catching up with what had just happened, she gave him a light punch on the shoulder, pouting. You scared the life out of me, idiot.

Collin chuckled, the sound low and warm. Then, with uncharacteristic seriousness, he promised, I was only teasing you. I won t do it again unless you want me to.

Don t forget your promise, Linsey responded.

Soon after, the car rolled to a stop right outside their building.

Together, Linsey and Collin made their way inside, walking side by side through the quiet hallway. Night had already settled in, and as expected, both Zenia and Zander were fast asleep.

Both parents paused to peek in on the children before quietly slipping away to the master bedroom, where they could finally unwind.

The moment she stepped into their room, memories of the car ride flickered across Linsey s mind. Her eyes darted toward Collin, uncertainty flickering in her gaze. She opened her mouth as if to speak, only to let the words dissolve.

Collin caught her uneasy look. Lifting an eyebrow, he asked, Is something bothering you?

She hesitated, her voice dropping lower. Just now didn t you say

Find magical tales on g ? ǦҦ ?s?c?

It seemed Collin already knew her thoughts, their connection running deeper than words. With steady steps, he approached, giving her a searching look. You want me?

Quick to respond, Linsey shook her head. No way. That was all you He was so sly.

A glint of laughter lit up Collin s eyes, his smile warm and easy. Go get cleaned up. It s late and you ll need your rest.

Really? Linsey asked, surprise softening her tone.

His hand brushed her cheek, reassuring her with a gentle touch. Of course. We re married now, Linsey. These things matter to both of us. What you want is just as important to me.

Gently, he turned her by the shoulders, nudging her toward the bathroom. Go on. Take a shower. You need some sleep.

The bathroom door closed behind Linsey as she went in, leaving the quiet room behind. Exhaustion crept in after such a long, emotional night.

By the time Collin emerged from his own shower, she had already slipped deep into sleep.

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