The gentle sway of the cruise ship beneath them matched the rhythm of their intertwined fingers. “I have been waiting to do this with you.” Markus stood by Valeria's side, his touch offering both support and reassurance as they stood on the deck together. 

Valeria settled onto a plush sofa, a contented sigh escaping her lips as she relaxed into the cushions. Markus remained by her side, ever attentive to her needs. “You shouldn’t stand for so long.” With a tender smile, he ...