Did Shawn never need a break? Nevertheless, tonight, Gale gritted her teeth and went all in. All for Ivy! For her goddess idol!

"I'll turn off the lights first," Gale said, reaching for the desk lamp. However, as her hand approached, Shawn grabbed it, pulling her into his arms.

The silky nightgown felt smooth, and Gale thought she could sense the texture of his muscles. She gulped. "Turn off the lights."

"Even after all these years of marriage, you're still shy?" Shawn teased.

"You know it… don't say it out loud…"

Shawn's hand rested on her waist, lazily patting her as if soothing a child. He held her without any further action.

"Gale." After a while, he called her.

"Yeah?"

"I can handle Ivy tomorrow."

Gale was overjoyed, looking up at him. "Really?"

"I never break my promises to you. Trust me."

"You are really..."

He silenced her with a finger on her lips, not letting her continue, "Let's not rush into this."

Gale blinked.

Resting her chin on his chest, she kicked off h