Soft morning light streamed through the wide windows of Arthur’s mansion, spilling golden stripes across the elegant, quiet bedroom. Zoe slept peacefully, her hair fanned out over the pillow, the white sheets tracing the gentle outline of her body. Arthur had been awake for a while, simply watching her, a serene smile playing at his lips.

He leaned closer and lay down beside her. His soft kisses brushed her shoulder, then her cheek, making her stir with a sleepy murmur, eyes half-open.

“Mmm…” Zoe groaned, her voice lazy with sleep. “Are you really going to keep this secret? You’re not telling me where we’re going?”

Arthur chuckled, running his fingers through her hair.

“It’s a surprise. But we need to hurry. Come take a shower with me, or we’ll be late.”

Zoe yawned, stretching.

“You go ahead. I’ll be right there.”

Arthur disappeared into the bathroom, and soon the sound of running water filled the air. Zoe sat up slowly, arms stretching again. Arthur’s phone, left on the nightstand, b