The Wrong Woman

"Have you met that woman before?" Jasper asked.

"We haven't seen her in person. Her parents handled the negotiations," Gregory answered.

Jasper nodded in understanding upon hearing this. "Dad, everything is settled now. You should take some rest." "Okay, you should get to bed early too."

With that, Gregory retreated to his room, leaving Jasper slumped on the sofa, closing his eyes to rest.

Meanwhile, Imogen emerged from the bathroom and found Jasper reclined on the sofa, apparently asleep.

Approaching quietly, she leaned down and whispered, "Ash, don't sleep here, you—"

Before she could finish, Jasper opened his eyes.

Imogen stood frozen, her eyes locked onto Jasper's profound gaze.

His eyes shimmered with mystery and depth, their intensity captivating as he gazed into hers.

Imogen nervously cleared her throat before advising, "You shouldn't stay here; you might catch a cold. Take a shower before heading to your room to sleep." "Imogen."

"Yes?"

"Do you have any regrets?"

"Regrets about what?"

regret marrying me so

with guilt. "I should be asking you that question. You've been so good to me. Why would I regret anything? But given my family's circumstances and my imperfections...

tenderly clasping her delicate hand in his own. He gently stroked

felt her heart race as she watched him hold her hand. Her cheeks flushed crimson as she shyly glanced down, unable to

shower," she murmured. "Do you want

a moment

that, he let go of Imogen's

the bedroom, while he headed toward

room, Imogen

murmured to herself, "Imogen, you're too easily flustered. Just holding

and retrieved Jasper's pajamas. As she opened the

So why were

palpable as she swiftly

by another, feeling

desire. There's no need to be embarrassed. He's your husband, after all." Carrying Jasper's clothes, Imogen approached the bathroom door and called out, "Ash, I've got your clothes. Can you open the door and take them?" Upon hearing Imogen's voice, Jasper promptly

extending her

him. That night proved restless for both of them, each consumed by their thoughts and burdened with heavy

clock