Theo, ever the gentleman, opened the car door for her, his actions a small but significant gesture of courtesy.

"You are always doing this," Stella said, a smile playing on her lips as she accepted his assistance.

The familiar routine was a comforting ritual, a testament to their growing intimacy.

"You deserve it," Theo replied, his voice soft and tender, his eyes conveying a depth of affection that Stella found both endearing and reassuring.

She slid into the car, settling into the ...