He had been the one rushing, yet now he delighted in teasing her. She felt a mix of love and frustration. Caden teased, “I need to figure out why your reactions are so immediate. A single kiss or touch sends you soaring.” Alicia’s face flushed at his forward comment. “Stop it,” she said.

Caden didn’t relent, his tone increasingly playful. “Am I mistaken? Since you’ve been with me, it’s as if your body can’t go a day without my touch.” Alicia reached her limit, frowning as she tried to move away. Her hand brushed against something hidden under the sheets. Thinking it might be a gift, she pulled it out. “What’s this?”

Caden smiled slyly. “Just open it. I think you’re going to like what’s inside.” Alicia bit her lip, a smile playing on her lips as she opened the box, only to discover it was filled with condoms. Her mouth fell open in astonishment. Caden nonchalantly grabbed one, tearing it open with his teeth. His eyes gleamed with unmistakable longing. Alicia had no room to refuse; she could only plead for gentleness.

“Gentle isn’t exactly your style, though, right?” Caden pointed out playfully. Alicia smacked his arm and muttered, “Shameless.” As Caden leaned closer, Alicia shifted and inadvertently looked out the window. Again, she stared at the majestic sight: towering skyscrapers, sky banners spelling out Caden’s marriage proposal, and the luxurious castle. Her heart softened. “How much did you spend on tonight?”

Caden clicked his tongue. “Seriously? Why would you ask something so trivial at a time like this?” Alicia bit her lip. “I can’t help but think it’s a waste,” she murmured. After all, everything would be gone in the morning. The thought brought a pang to her chest. But Caden silenced her melancholy with a deep kiss, continuing until she sighed contentedly.

Unfortunately, good things never last. The phone, which had fallen to the floor, began to ring.