Imogen was overwhelmed, tears mingling with laughter as she nodded. "I believe you," she whispered. Archie lifted her hand and kissed it gently. The room instantly felt warmer. Reunited after so long, they clung to each other, lost in affection.

Just as Archie leaned closer, Imogen pushed him away, her face flushing. "No, we can't. I just had the baby. I'm still recovering…"

Archie paused, chuckling. "Look at me, getting carried away. My bad. Rest. Are you hungry? Should I get you something?"

Imogen shook her head, her blush deepening. "I'm not hungry. Archie, could you step out for a moment? I need the bathroom…"

Since giving birth, she relied on caregivers and the postpartum nurse for tasks like changing pads. It was routine, but with Archie, it felt unbearably awkward.

Archie sensed her discomfort. He chuckled softly, kissing her forehead. "I'll help. I'm your husband. What's there to be embarrassed about?" Their wedding had been called off, but they had lived as a married couple, even having a child. The ceremony no longer mattered; she was content with his presence.

Archie was meticulous and gentle in his care, attending to her every need. Imogen, initially uneasy, relaxed under his patient attention, a blissful smile softening her face.

"Archie, you're so nice to me," she murmured.

Leaning against the headboard, she felt his presence, her heart brimming with gratitude. She leaned toward him. He bent down, kissing her forehead. Imogen pouted, tugging his arm. He hesitated, then leaned in again, kissing from her nose to the corner of her lips. "Why only the corner?" she wondered, a pang of disappointment striking her. "Archie, are you avoiding me?"

"Of course not," he soothed. "I'm just worried I won't be able to stop myself. Be patient. Once your recovery is over, we'll have all the time in the world."

"That's not what I meant!" Imogen protested, her face crimson. "You're the one thinking too much! I just want you to kiss me and hold me, that's all!"

"Alright, alright. My fault. I misunderstood. Let me make it up to you, my darling." His amused voice was alluring. She felt his breath against her nose. As his lips neared hers, the bedroom door swung open, a lively feminine voice calling, "Imogen!"

Imogen frowned. It was Johanna, the only person who would barge in unannounced. Johanna saw them about to kiss, a shock freezing her in place.