The grandfather clock in the hallway chimed midnight when the front door creaked open. Draven stumbled in, his tie loosened, his steps heavier than usual. The business dinner had run long, the clients insisted on toast after toast, and the world felt just a little unsteady beneath his feet. He rubbed his forehead, trying to clear the fog, and then he saw her—standing near the staircase, a soft silhouette in the dim lamplight, wearing that familiar lavender dress he loved so much.His heart lightened instantly. He smiled, walking toward her with open arms."There you are," he murmured, his voice warm and thick with wine. "I was missing you all evening. You have no idea how happy I am to be home."He stepped in and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close, resting his chin on top of her head. Liana froze for a heartbeat, then slowly lifted her hands and placed them gently against his chest, a small, secret smile touching her lips."You’re home late," she said softly, her voice pit
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