Ch. 246..250: Trapped in a Secret Marriage with a Dangerous Billionaire Chapter 246-250

Chapter 246: Women Bonding

After returning home, Aurora and Abigail sat comfortably in the glass in-house flower garden, sipping their drinks—Aurora with her warm flower tea, Abigail with her strong black coffee.

The soft glow of the ambient lights illuminated the delicate petals of the flowers around them, creating a tranquil and intimate atmosphere.

Aurora had her tablet on her lap, S-pen in hand, as she brainstormed ideas for her foundation project for abandoned children. The plan was to officially launch it next year, but she wanted to finalize all the details before the year ended.

"This is such an amazing initiative, Aura," Abigail said, leaning back in her chair. "Helping abandoned children find stability? You’re going to be a hero to so many kids."

Aurora smiled, her fingers gliding across the tablet screen. "I just want to make a difference. But there’s so much to do—securing proper funding, legal procedures, finding trustworthy caregivers..."

Abigail tapped her chin thoughtfully. "I may not know much about running a foundation, but I do know how to throw a great fundraising event. We could host a charity gala to raise awareness and get donors."

Aurora’s eyes lit up. "That’s actually a great idea, Abby!" She quickly made a note on her tablet.

The two friends continued exchanging ideas, mapping out plans and brainstorming strategies. Time flew by, and before they knew it, the dinner bell rang.

---

Later that night, Aurora was sprawled across Abigail’s bed, scrolling through her phone when Abigail emerged from the bathroom.

"The bath is ready," Abigail announced with a satisfied grin.

Aurora glanced up. "Mmm, you really went all out, didn’t you?"

"Of course," Abigail smirked. "I’m all about luxury, baby."

Curious, Aurora got off the bed and followed Abigail into the bathroom. The scent of lavender and jasmine filled the air, thanks to the lighted scented candles. The bathtub was sprinkled with rose petals, and soft hip-hop beats played in the background, creating a surprisingly soothing contrast.

Aurora exhaled deeply. "This is actually nice. You did good, Abby."

Abigail flipped her hair dramatically. "I know."

The two best friends stood at opposite ends of the tub. "I’ll take the left," Abigail said, already stepping in.

Aurora nodded and settled into the right side, stretching her legs toward Abigail while Abigail did the same, their feet playfully nudging each other.

As warm water wrapped around them, Aurora sighed in relaxation. "This reminds me of our younger days when we’d have these self-care nights."

Abigail chuckled. "Back when we had zero responsibilities? Yeah, I miss those days."

They sipped on their fruit juice while reminiscing about the past, laughing at silly memories and making playful jabs at each other.

"You know, tomorrow is our last weekend night together," Abigail suddenly said. "We must have a movie night."

Aurora took another sip of her juice. "Fine. But let’s stay in. I want to sleep in tomorrow."

Abigail pouted but relented. "Alright, we’ll watch the movie at home. But you better stay awake."

Aurora smirked. "No promises."

Then, as expected, Abigail started with her R-rated wisdom. "You also need to prepare to welcome Xander back on Monday..." she said with a sly grin.

Aurora raised a brow. "What are you getting at?"

Abigail leaned closer. "You know what I’m getting at. After being away on a business trip, all a man wants is to come home to his wife and make love—"

Aurora slapped Abigail’s thigh. "Abby!"

Abigail laughed, unfazed. "I’m just saying, pick an interesting yet comfortable position for the baby’s sake."

Aurora groaned and shook her head. "Maybe you should stop worrying about me and start worrying about yourself instead."

Abigail wiggled her brows. "Oh, don’t worry about me, babe. I’ll be fine."

Before Aurora could respond, her phone rang. She glanced at the screen and her lips curled into a smile.

"It’s Xander," she said, looking at Abigail. "Video call."

Abigail raised her hands in mock surrender. "Don’t worry, I won’t accidentally show up naked in your frame."

Aurora rolled her eyes and accepted the call.

As soon as Xander’s face appeared on the screen, his expression softened. "Sweetheart," he greeted warmly before his eyes slightly widened.

Aurora’s face heated up when she realized that since she was in the bathtub, the camera angle exposed the top half of her chest.

Xander smirked, his eyes darkening. "You’re having a bath?" He licked his lower lip.

Aurora cleared her throat, shifting the camera slightly. "Yes. How was your day?"

For a moment, Xander seemed distracted. Then he finally responded. "It was successful."

"Have you eaten?" Aurora asked.

"I had steamed seafood dumplings," he answered.

Aurora sighed dreamily. "That sounds so good. Don’t forget to bring back everything I asked for," she reminded him.

As she spoke, she accidentally tilted the phone lower, momentarily flashing her entire chest before quickly adjusting the camera.

Xander’s smirk deepened. "Lower the phone again."

Abigail, who had been sipping her juice quietly, burst into laughter, covering her mouth.

Aurora shot her a glare before turning back to Xander.

He narrowed his eyes slightly. "Wait... is someone there with you?"

Aurora hesitated for a second before nodding. "Yeah... Abigail."

Xander frowned. "You two are bathing together?"

Aurora sighed, already sensing where this was going. "Xander, we do this once in a while to relax and talk."

Xander looked visibly uncomfortable. "Who does that?"

Aurora tried to suppress her laugh. "Women do, Xander. It’s a bonding thing."

He still didn’t look convinced, but he didn’t push further. Instead, he exhaled and changed the subject. "I’ll go shopping for your gifts tomorrow."

Aurora smiled. "Thank you."

Xander then asked about her day and how their baby was doing. Aurora gave him a brief rundown before he bid her goodnight.

"Sleep well, sweetheart. I’ll call you tomorrow."

"Goodnight," Aurora said, before ending the call.

As soon as the screen went dark, she turned to Abigail, who had a smug look on her face.

"Xander didn’t like the idea of us bathing together," Aurora noted.

Abigail chuckled. "Of course he didn’t. Can you imagine him taking a bath with Asher? Men don’t get it."

Aurora nodded. "He was definitely jealous."

Abigail snorted. "It’s not like we’re doing anything inappropriate. We’re very straight, so why is he worried?"

Aurora smirked. "Maybe you should ask him yourself."

---

After their bath, Aurora slipped into a comfortable pajama set and crawled under Abigail’s duvet.

With a drowsy voice, she mumbled, "Abby, I want hot mocha when I wake up in the morning."

Abigail chuckled. "Whatever you want, your highness."

Then she went to lock the door, turn off the lights, and by the time she slipped into bed, Aurora was already fast asleep.

Smiling, Abigail tucked the blanket over her and whispered, "Sleep well, Aura."

And with that, she too drifted into slumber.

Chapter 247: A Good Friend

Aurora stirred awake, her body feeling unusually heavy as she blinked at the soft morning light filtering through the curtains. She lazily turned her head to check the time on her phone—8:23 AM. That was sleeping in for her.

"Finally, Sleeping Beauty is awake," Abigail teased as she walked over, holding a steaming cup of mocha in her hand.

Aurora sat up groggily, stretching her arms before accepting the cup. The warmth seeped into her fingers, and the rich aroma instantly made her feel better. "You actually remembered," she murmured with a small smile before taking a sip.

Abigail smirked. "Of course, I did. I always keep my promises."

While Aurora drank, Abigail moved behind her and started gathering her hair into an effortless updo. "You look exhausted, Aura," she commented, securing the bun with a clip.

Aurora sighed. "I actually feel exhausted."

"Then go back to bed," Abigail suggested. "You need rest."

"I will... after a shower and breakfast," Aurora relented, knowing Abigail would insist.

"Good girl," Abigail praised, giving her shoulders a playful squeeze.

Aurora dragged herself to the bathroom. As she entered, Nene came in and neatly placed a fresh set of loungewear at the foot of the bed. Moments later, another servant arrived with a breakfast tray, setting it up on the small sitting area before quietly leaving.

By the time Aurora finished showering and returned to the bedroom, the only person left was Abigail, waiting with an expectant look.

"Feel any better?" Abigail asked.

Aurora nodded slightly, though fatigue still lingered in her bones.

Abigail guided her to bed and placed the breakfast tray on her lap. "Eat first, then sleep all you want."

Aurora ate half a green apple, then moved on to the cooked oats with milk and sugar. But after a few spoonfulls, she pushed the tray away.

"That’s all?" Abigail frowned.

"I’m full," Aurora said tiredly.

With a concerned look, Abigail took the tray away while Aurora adjusted her pillow and curled into the sheets. Within minutes, she was fast asleep again.

---

Aurora woke up again around 11:30 AM, feeling slightly refreshed. She finally left the bedroom, heading to the living room, where she had work to do.

Settling comfortably on the couch, she resumed drafting ideas for her charity foundation project. Abigail joined her soon after, scrolling through her phone while occasionally throwing in suggestions.

Nene walked in and placed two bowls of fresh fruit salad along with small plates of plain yogurt in front of them.

"Ma’am, let me know if you need anything else," Nene said with a polite bow before disappearing.

Aurora dug into her fruit salad while working, the silence around them allowing her to focus. The household staff had made themselves scarce, ensuring she had a quiet environment to concentrate.

Abigail spooned some yogurt into her mouth before glancing at Aurora’s screen. "You’re really serious about this, huh?"

Aurora nodded, not looking up. "I want to get everything planned out before next year."

Abigail hummed in thought. "Have you considered collaborating with any existing organizations?"

Aurora paused, fingers tapping against the tablet. "That’s actually a good idea. I will think about it. Thank you."

Abigail grinned. "You’re welcome."

---

In the middle of their discussion, Aurora’s phone rang. Seeing Xander’s name flash across the screen, she smiled and quickly answered.

"Hey, sweetheart."

"Hi," she responded softly.

"How are you feeling? How’s our baby?"

Aurora hesitated for a second before deciding to be honest. "I felt a little unwell this morning—just tired and drowsy. But I’m better now."

Xander’s voice grew serious. "Sweetheart, you need to inform your gynae about any discomfort."

"I know," she reassured him. "But I really do feel better now. I even managed to get some work done."

Xander exhaled, still not convinced. "Promise me that if you feel even the slightest discomfort again, you’ll call your doctor."

Aurora chuckled lightly, loving the way he cared for her. "I promise."

Xander seemed satisfied with that. "Good. Take care of yourself, sweetheart."

"How was your event today?" Aurora asked, changing the topic.

"It went well. I gave my speech earlier," he replied.

Aurora’s face lit up with excitement. "You have to send the video to me! I want to see it."

Xander chuckled. "I’ll send it as soon as we’re done talking. Is your best friend there with you?"

Just then, Abigail entered the room. Aurora turned to her and pointed at the phone. "Xander wants to talk to you."

Abigail raised a brow in surprise but took the phone. "Hello, Mr. Scott!"

"Hi, Abigail," Xander greeted smoothly. "Thanks for staying with Aurora this weekend and keeping her company."

Abigail smiled. "It’s nothing. She’s my best friend, and I’d do anything for her."

Xander appreciated the response and Abigail returned the phone to Aurora.

"I’ll be back in Wing City tomorrow," he told her. "I’m about to go shopping for your gifts."

Aurora beamed. "Send me pictures after!"

"Of course," he assured her. "I’ll call you later, sweetheart."

After the call ended, Aurora set her phone down.

Abigail smirked. "I can’t believe he actually thanked me for staying with you."

Aurora chuckled. "Why are you surprised? Did you think my husband was a monster?"

Abigail shrugged playfully. "Well, he has proven to be a good guy. I’ll give him that."

---

As the evening rolled in, Aurora and Abigail decided to take a relaxing stroll around the estate, chatting about Abigail’s next film project.

"So, what’s your next role?" Aurora asked as they walked side by side.

"A historical drama," Abigail replied, stretching her arms. "I’ll be playing a new queen trying to navigate political schemes in the royal court."

Aurora smiled. "That sounds intense. You’re going to kill it."

Abigail winked. "Of course, I am."

After their stroll, they returned inside for their planned movie night.

The kitchen staff had already prepared pizza, wine (which was swapped for juice for Aurora), and a bucket of chicken drumsticks. As soon as they settled on the couch, the servants brought everything out and quietly retreated.

As the film began, Abigail nudged Aurora. "This documentary will actually help with ideas for your foundation project. And that’s why I picked it."

Aurora, touched by the thoughtfulness, grabbed her tablet and S-pen. "You really planned this out, didn’t you?"

Abigail grinned. "What are best friends for?"

And with that, they settled in, enjoying their movie night while also gathering inspiration for the big project.

*---*

Chapter 248: Deliberate Seduction

Aurora was curled up on the living room couch, her tablet resting on her lap as she scribbled down notes for her foundation project. The soft hum of classical music played in the background, but her focus was constantly shifting—her mind was on Xander.

He was returning tonight.

A few moments later, Nene appeared by her side, a warm smile on her face. "Ma’am, Sir is back."

Aurora’s heart skipped a beat. Without hesitation, she tossed her tablet aside and bolted to her feet. She didn’t even bother with her slippers as she ran straight for the front door.

Outside, the cool night air brushed against her skin, but she barely noticed. The moment her eyes landed on Xander, standing next to Liam by the car, her face lit up with excitement.

"Xander!" she called out, rushing toward him.

Xander’s lips curled into a deep chuckle as he spread his arms wide. "Slow down, sweetheart—"

But she was already launching herself at him. Her legs wrapped around his waist, her arms circling his neck. Xander caught her effortlessly, his laughter vibrating against her.

"I missed you," Aurora whispered into the crook of his neck, inhaling his familiar scent.

Xander tightened his arms around her. "I missed you too, my love."

The servants, including Nene and the butler, stood by the entrance, watching with fond smiles. "Welcome home, Sir," they greeted in unison.

Xander nodded at them but didn’t put Aurora down. Instead, he twirled her around once, eliciting a small squeal from her before carrying her inside.

Aurora didn’t care who was watching. She clung to him like a koala, refusing to let go.

Once inside, Xander finally settled Aurora onto the couch. She barely let him breathe before wrapping her arms around him again.

"How was your flight? How was China?" she asked, her voice muffled against his chest.

Xander chuckled, rubbing her back. "Long, but smooth. And China was... productive."

She hummed in contentment, looking up at him with bright eyes. "Did you miss me every second?"

Xander smirked, tucking a loose strand of her hair behind her ear. "Every single second."

Seeing her so clingy and affectionate, he couldn’t resist anymore. He cupped her face and leaned in, capturing her lips in a slow, tender kiss.

Aurora melted into him instantly, her fingers curling into his shirt. She was eager—too eager. Xander smiled against her lips and pulled back slightly.

"Easy, sweetheart," he murmured, his forehead resting against hers. "I’m not running away. I’m right here."

Just then, Liam entered the living room, carrying several neatly packed shopping bags. He set them down and bowed slightly before excusing himself.

Aurora’s attention immediately shifted. "Are these...?"

Xander smiled knowingly. "Everything you asked for."

Excited, Aurora finally detached herself from him and knelt by the bags. She eagerly opened them, her eyes lighting up when she saw the beautifully wrapped flower tea packets.

"Oh, my God, I love you," she squealed, holding the tea close to her chest like a prized possession.

Xander leaned back and watched her with fond amusement. "You love me or the tea?"

Aurora giggled, glancing at him mischievously. "Both."

She moved on to the frozen dumplings and gasped happily. "Nene!" she called.

Nene appeared almost immediately. "Yes, Ma’am?"

"Please microwave or steam some of these dumplings for me. I want to eat them now."

Nene took the package with a knowing smile and disappeared into the kitchen.

Xander watched his wife with pure adoration as she continued rummaging through the rest of the gifts. The joy in her eyes, the way she giggled—it made the entire trip worth it.

A few minutes later, Nene returned with a plate of freshly steamed dumplings. Aurora settled back onto the couch beside Xander and picked one up with her fork.

"Here, try this," she said, holding it out to him.

Xander smirked. "Feeding me now?"

"Of course."

Xander leaned in and took a big bite. Aurora watched him expectantly.

"Mmm," he hummed in approval. "Delicious."

Together, they finished the plate, Aurora feeding him between bites.

---

Later that night, as they made their way upstairs, Aurora turned to Xander. "Are you hungry? Should I have something else prepared?"

Xander shook his head. "I ate before my flight, and the dumplings were enough. I’ll eat later if I get hungry."

They entered the dressing room, and Xander unbuttoned his shirt. Aurora plopped onto the plush couch, watching him intently.

Xander smirked. "Like what you see?"

Aurora grinned. "Always."

He chuckled and walked towards the bathroom. "I’m going to take a shower. Want to join me?"

To his surprise, she stood up and nodded. "Okay."

Xander raised a brow. "Really?"

Aurora walked toward him and slipped her arms around his waist. "You’ve been away for days, Mr. Scott. I want to spend every second with you."

Xander’s heart warmed at her words. Without another word, they stripped and stepped into the warm shower together.

As the water cascaded over them, Xander’s gaze roamed over Aurora’s body. His eyes lingered on her abdomen before he placed his palm over it.

"I’m back now," he whispered. "Were you good to your mother while I was gone?"

Aurora smiled, her heart swelling. "He was very obedient."

Xander’s gaze slowly travelled upward. His eyes darkened slightly as he took in her chest. "Your boobs look heavier."

Aurora glanced down, then back up at him. "Really? I don’t see any difference."

Xander smirked. "That’s because you don’t own them. I do."

Aurora chuckled, rolling her eyes.

Xander lathered the sponge and started washing her, taking his time. When he reached her chest, his touches became softer, more lingering.

Aurora bit her lip, feeling warmth pool in her stomach. "Are you washing me or teasing me?"

Xander grinned. "Both."

After he was done, Aurora took the loofah and turned to him. As she washed his broad back, she traced the area that dragon tattoo used to be.

"I missed these," she murmured.

Xander smiled. "I can draw them again if you want."

She shook her head. "No. I like your plain back more."

---

Later, Aurora slipped into one of the lingerie sets Abigail had bought her—the black one. She wrapped a sheer silk robe around herself and climbed into bed, keeping herself occupied with her phone.

Xander entered the room moments later, shirtless, wearing only lounge pants. He ran a hand through his damp hair before looking at her.

"Ready to sleep?" he asked.

Aurora set her phone aside and nodded. Xander dimmed the lights and got into bed.

As soon as he did, she shifted closer, resting her head on his bare chest. Her fingers began tracing slow, deliberate circles on his skin.

Xander exhaled softly, enjoying her touch. But he could sense something else.

"Are you tired?" she asked, her voice soft.

Xander smirked knowingly. He lifted his hand to her chin, tilting her face up to meet his gaze. "A little."

Aurora sighed dramatically, resting her head back down.

A few seconds passed before she murmured, "Abigail bought me three new lingerie sets."

Xander raised a brow. "Oh?"

Aurora lifted her head and met his gaze. "Do you want to see them?"

Xander’s lips curled into a slow, wicked smile. "Absolutely."

This was a moment he wouldn’t trade for anything. And since his wife was inviting, how dare he say ’no’ to her?

Chapter 249: Making Love

Aurora sat up on the bed and reached out to tug the rope of the sheer silk robe loose. Immediately, the robe came undone, showcasing the black lingerie she was wearing inside.

Xander’s gaze landed on her boobs which seemed to look much more enticing in his sight. Slowly, he sat up on the bed, his eyes raking her body.

Feeling his heated gaze on her, Aurora asked, "How is the lingerie? Do you like it?" Then she proceeded to take it off.

"Mind if I take a closer look?" Xander asked as he inched closer, his gaze darkening as his cock twitched in his pants.

Aurora knelt before him, smirking at the way his eyes took her in. The desire he had for her burned like fire in his eyes, and she couldn’t wait to have him do other things to her.

Xander finally stopped three inches away from Aurora without taking his eyes off her for a second. And without wasting time, he put his hands on her waist and pulled her in. Inhaling her sweet scent, he whispered in her ear, "You look sexy in this. But don’t you know dangerous it is to appear before me in it?"

"I-I thought you would appreciate it," Aurora said, suddenly taking in a sharp breath when his hands started to roam all over her back. The air around them was starting to get heated.

"Sweetheart, I don’t care about the fucking lingerie," Xander retorted, his tone hoarse as his eyes blazed with desire. "You should be worried about the baby because appearing in this hardens my cock and makes me want to fuck your brains out. So, which is it?"

Xander was asking what Aurora wanted between making love to her or fucking her brains out. In the end, she chose the first option because of their baby.

No matter how wild she wanted tonight to be, the doctor’s warning kept ringing like Christmas bells in her ears.

---

The air in the dimly lit bedroom crackled with warmth, an intimate glow settling between Aurora and Xander as Xander’s smouldering gaze locked onto her.

The teasing had turned into something deeper, something magnetic, and the lingerie, resting somewhere on the floor.

Xander leaned in, brushing his lips gently against Aurora’s, savouring the way she melted into his touch.

Aurora’s breath hitched when his fingers traced soft, reverent patterns along her bare skin. He treated her like she was the most delicate thing in the world—his world. His hand slid down to rest protectively over her abdomen before he whispered, "Are you comfortable?"

Aurora nodded, her lips parting slightly, her body craving more of him. "I am," she murmured.

Xander kissed her again, slow and lingering, as if he had all the time in the world. His lips travelled down the column of her throat, leaving a trail of featherlight kisses. His hands worshipped every inch of her body, his touch so gentle yet intoxicating that it sent shivers down her spine.

He guided her movements carefully, never rushing, never letting go of his restraint. The love he made to her wasn’t just about pleasure—it was about connection, about cherishing her and the life they had created together.

Every few moments, he would pause to look into her eyes, searching for any sign of discomfort. "Are you okay, sweetheart?" he asked again, his voice husky but filled with concern.

Aurora tangled her fingers in his hair, pressing a kiss to his temple. "I’m more than okay," she reassured him breathlessly.

Her words were all the encouragement Xander needed. He moved with deliberate tenderness, each thrust slow and deep, making sure she felt every part of him. Their bodies moved in perfect harmony, a dance only they understood.

And when Aurora finally reached her climax, she cried out his name, her body trembling beneath him.

The sight of her unravelling beneath him, her flushed skin glowing with satisfaction, sent Xander over the edge. With one final deep thrust, he buried himself inside her, releasing his warmth within her.

Xander’s body trembled as he collapsed beside her, his chest rising and falling in sync with hers. His arms instinctively wrapped around her, pulling her close. He pressed a lingering kiss to her forehead, murmuring, "I love you."

Aurora’s lips curled into a soft smile against his skin. He finally said those three magic words to her.

"I love you too," she whispered.

For a moment, they simply lay there, basking in the quiet aftermath, their bodies still tangled together. Aurora’s fingers traced slow circles on his chest as her breathing gradually steadied.

Just when she thought she might drift off in his embrace, Xander spoke again.

"I have one more gift for you," he said, his voice laced with amusement.

Aurora blinked, tilting her head up to look at him. "Really?"

Xander nodded, his lips twitching into a mysterious smile. "Mmm. But I’ll give it to you tomorrow morning."

Aurora pouted slightly but soon snuggled closer, resting her face against his chest. "Now I won’t be able to sleep," she teased, her voice drowsy.

Xander chuckled, his fingers stroking her hair. "You’ll just have to be patient, my love."

She sighed contentedly. "Fine, but it better be worth the suspense."

Xander kissed the top of her head, inhaling her scent. "It will be."

A comfortable silence settled over them until Xander gently asked, "Do you want to take a bath before sleeping?"

Aurora groaned softly, shaking her head against him. "I’m too exhausted."

Xander smirked. "Well, you did ask for it."

Aurora didn’t even deny it. Instead, she simply nuzzled deeper into his warmth.

A moment later, Xander slowly unwrapped his arms from her, sitting up. Aurora reached for him with a sleepy whimper, reluctant to let him go.

"I’ll be back in a few seconds," he promised, pressing a kiss to her temple before slipping out of bed.

Aurora watched through heavy-lidded eyes as he walked away, his bare body disappearing into the bathroom. True to his word, within a minute, he returned with a damp towel.

Without saying a word, he pulled back the duvet covering her naked body, exposing her to the cool air. She shivered slightly but didn’t protest as he knelt beside her and carefully wiped her inner thighs and legs, his touch tender and unhurried.

Once satisfied, he leaned in and captured her lips in a long, languid kiss before pulling away and disappearing into the bathroom again to discard the towel.

When he returned, he slid beneath the duvet and immediately pulled her back into his embrace.

"Now you can sleep peacefully," he murmured against her hair.

Aurora sighed in pure contentment, feeling safe, loved, and cherished beyond words. She nestled against him, letting his warmth lull her into a peaceful slumber.

Chapter 250: It Was Time

After breakfast, Xander laced his fingers through Aurora’s and led her toward his study. His steps were confident, but there was a playful gleam in his eyes. Aurora followed him curiously, wondering what he was up to.

As soon as they entered, Xander guided her to the centre of the room and walked over to his desk. He picked up a brown envelope and handed it to her, watching as confusion flickered across her face.

"What’s this?" she asked, staring at the envelope like it contained the secrets of the universe.

Xander smirked, tilting his head. "Your gift. Open it."

Aurora’s curiosity piqued. She carefully peeled the envelope open and pulled out a few neatly stacked documents. Her eyes scanned the words Property Deed, and her heart skipped a beat.

Her brows furrowed as she lifted her gaze to Xander. "Wait... what is this?"

Xander stepped closer and wrapped an arm around her waist, his deep voice laced with amusement. "It’s an apartment. I bought it for you."

Aurora blinked, speechless. "You what?"

"I got it during my trip," Xander continued. "I figured the little things you asked me to buy were too cheap. So, I decided to get you something... grand."

Aurora’s jaw dropped. "Xander! Are you insane? You got me an entire apartment just because you thought my gift request was too cheap?"

Who does that?

Xander chuckled, pleased by her reaction. "Of course."

Aurora groaned and buried her face in his chest, shaking her head. "You’re crazy."

"And you love me for it," Xander teased, rubbing slow circles on her back.

Aurora sighed dramatically but clung to him tighter. "Thank you," she murmured, meaning every word.

Xander pulled away slightly, tilting his head down at her. Then he pointed at his lips. "Thank me properly."

Aurora’s eyes widened before a laugh bubbled out of her. "You’re impossible!" But, on tiptoes, she kissed him softly, lingering longer than she intended.

Satisfied, Xander finally released her. "Now, take a good look at the document. The key is inside the envelope too."

Aurora peeked into the envelope and pulled out the key card. She held it in her palm, marvelling at how absurd yet sweet Xander’s gesture was.

Just as she was about to tease him again, something popped into her mind, and she pouted.

Xander raised an eyebrow. "What now?"

Aurora crossed her arms, fixing him with a mock glare. "You told me you loved me last night."

Xander gave her a puzzled look. "Yes?"

Aurora squinted at him. "That was the first time you’ve ever said it."

Xander blinked. "Really?"

"Yes, really," she scoffed. "And you’re acting all surprised, like you didn’t know."

Xander’s lips pressed into a thin line. He truly hadn’t realized he’d never actually said those words before. And he was really thinking hard about it now.

"I thought you knew," Aurora continued with an exaggerated frown. "Oh, my! How am I even sure you didn’t only say it because of the sex last night?"

Xander quickly shook his head, looking both guilty and amused. "No, Sweetheart. I love you so much with every breath I take. I’m sorry it took me this long to say it out loud. I seriously had no idea I have never said them to you."

Aurora remained silent, still pouting.

Xander sighed, cupping her cheeks. "I’ll tell you every day if you want. I’ll say it so much that you will get tired of hearing it."

Aurora melted at his sincerity, her pout disappearing. "Good. I expect to hear it often, then."

Xander leaned in and pecked her lips. "Deal."

Just then, two knocks echoed through the room. Xander straightened, granting permission for entry. Aurora leaned out of his embrace just as Liam walked in.

Liam greeted them politely, and Aurora returned the greeting before taking his presence as her cue to leave.

"I’ll go get ready for work," she excused herself.

Xander watched her go before turning his attention to Liam, who took a seat at his silent command.

"I called you in regarding Stella Swift’s case," Xander began, his expression turning cold.

Liam nodded, waiting for further instruction.

"Send copies of all the evidence we gathered to the Major. Along with it, inform him that he has one week to release Stella to the police. If he refuses, the police will come for her themselves."

Liam’s lips curled slightly. "Understood."

They discussed other matters briefly before Liam took his leave.

---

Wing City’s Military Base.

At the military base, Major Walker stood outside, dressed in casual mofti, his hands clasped behind his back as he took a slow, measured walk. A soldier trailed behind him, having just delivered Xander’s message.

The Major scoffed as a smirk tugged at his lips. "So, this is his move?" he murmured under his breath.

A thoughtful silence followed before he finally spoke louder. "It seems Alexander has no intention of storming in for a rescue mission."

The Major looked like he would have preferred for Xander to jump straight into action so he could put a bullet through his leg instead.

Major Walker continued his walk for a few more paces before stopping and turning to the soldier.

"Release her from the chains. Treat her wounds." His tone was indifferent, as if he were discussing the weather. "On the fourth day, release her completely and drop an anonymous tip to the police about her location."

The soldier saluted. "Yes, sir!"

Without another word, he turned on his heel and marched off to carry out his orders.

The Major resumed his walk, the smirk never leaving his lips.

He wasn’t releasing Stella because Xander asked, but because it was actually time to let her face the law.

---

The Dungeon.

Stella groaned in agony, her wrists bruised and swollen from weeks of restraint. Her body ached, every inch of her crying out for mercy.

When the heavy door creaked open, she flinched instinctively, expecting another round of torture.

Instead, her chains were unlocked.

Stella’s weak eyes widened in shock. She barely had time to process what was happening before another figure stepped into view—a woman wearing a camouflage mask that covered most of her face.

In her gloved hand, she held a syringe.

Stella’s breathing grew frantic. Her mind screamed poison. Were they finally going to end her?

"No... no, please," she whimpered, her voice hoarse from days of suffering. "Please, don’t do this. I—"

"Hold her down," the woman commanded coldly.

Two strong arms seized Stella’s frail body, pinning her down effortlessly.

"No! Wait! I—"

The needle pierced her skin before she could finish her sentence.

The last thing Stella saw before darkness claimed her was the woman’s unreadable eyes staring down at her.

Then, everything faded into black.