Chapter 1682

“Then I’ll bring Charlie over more often,” Jamie said with a warm smile.
“Thank you, but let’s wait until after your competition is done,” Nina replied graciously. She appreciated Jamie’s kindness but was thoughtful enough to acknowledge Jamie’s current commitments. By the time they left, the sun had set. Charlie was bursting with excitement on the ride home, chattering non-stop about everything that had happened that day.
“It sounds like you and Orion really hit it off. Should we come back more often?” Jamie asked, her tone lighthearted.
“Of course! Orion’s my friend now, and friends should meet often,” Charlie said seriously, his face full of determination.
Jamie ruffled his hair affectionately, her heart full of warmth. “I’m glad you’ve found a good friend. I’ll make sure we visit more often.” She hoped Charlie’s companionship would help Orion heal from his loss. When they arrived home, Ben was already waiting at the door.
“You’re back late. I’ve been waiting for ages,” he said, walking out to greet them.
“Waiting for what?” Jamie asked, stepping inside with him.
Ben chuckled softly. “To celebrate your win, of course.”
“It’s just the first round-not exactly an award-winning moment,” Jamie sighed. “I shouldn’t get ahead of myself. There’s still a long way to go, and the competition will only get tougher.”
“Every step forward counts as a victory. One step at a time,” Ben said, his voice reassuring.
After handing Charlie off to the nanny, he guided Jamie to their room.
The scene inside took her breath away-a candlelit dinner awaited, the warm glow of the candles adding an air of romance to the space.
“Ben, thank you!” Jamie said, her surprise and gratitude evident.
“Have a seat,” Ben said, pulling out a chair for her like a true gentleman.
The wine swirled in their glasses, releasing its rich aroma as they toasted to her success.
Jamie took a bite of her steak and paused. “Did you make this yourself?”
“Caught me,” Ben admitted with a laugh. “I’m no professional chef, but I gave it my best shot.”
Jamie smiled, appreciating the effort. “It’s wonderful-very special. I just wish I hadn’t already eaten, I’m too full to enjoy it properly. If I’d
known, I’d have skipped dinner and come home earlier.”
Ben didn’t seem bothered. He turned on the record player, filling the room with soft music, and extended his hand. “No problem. Let’s dance instead.”
Guided by the gentle melody and the
interplay of moonlight and candlelight, the two danced gracefully. Jamie gazed into Ben’s eyes, her face glowing with warmth and contentment. FindNovel
After a while, she felt her energy flagging. “I think I need a shower,” she said with a soft laugh.
“Sure,” Ben said with a nod.
When Jamie entered the bathroom, she found the tub already filled with warm water, rose petals floating on the surface, their scent adding to the romantic ambiance.
Ben lingered at the door, leaning casually against the frame. “That tub looks pretty spacious…” he remarked, his suggestion clear.
Jamie, feigning obliviousness, gently nudged him out and closed the door. “You should know me by now. I plan to take my time and unwind.”
The warm bath worked wonders,
soothing her tired body and clearing her mind: When she finished, Ben wasn’t in the room. He had likely gone to use the other bathroom.
Instead of relaxing further, Jamie headed straight to the study. This was only the beginning. With more challenges ahead, she couldn’t afford to rest just yet.