"34. a big step for the couple."

"He lay back on the bed, watching her as she toyed with a strand of her hair, tucking it behind her ear with the intention of touching her skin and seeing her wake up at his touch.

'When will it be?' he murmured, squinting and swallowing hard.

Elizabeth's eyes opened as she felt his touch, and for a brief moment, she registered his gesture and his expression, showing discomfort. She wondered what was wrong with him.

'Good morning, Elizabeth.'

'Morning. Are you okay?'

He nodded. She sat up, showing excitement, and hugged him, allowing him to warmly return the embrace. That same warm sensation filled her chest as she touched his bare chest, feeling every firm part of his torso.

For a moment, Richard let himself go and fell onto her, pressing his lips against hers and kissing her deeply.

Suddenly, she found herself pinned to the bed as his hands slid over her face to the top of her head, gently tousling her hair as he kissed her cautiously, wary of rejection. However, she didn't feel the