"Stefan?" she called softly.
She found him seated on the edge of the bed, fully dressed in a navy shirt and dark trousers, his head tilted slightly as if listening for her.
"Ivy," he said with a small nod. "I thought you weren't coming."
Her heart twisted at the way he said it—not accusing, just... disappointed. Was he no longer doubting or suspicious of her?
"I'm sorry," she said, walking over. "I didn't mean to keep you waiting. I thought Martin would help you down."
"He offered," Stefan said, turning toward her voice. "But I wanted to wait for you. You promised you'd be back early so I figured I wait for my darling wife."
Ruby froze for a second, then forced a smile as she stepped closer. "That's sweet of you, Stefan. I'm here now."
She extended her hand, guiding his fingers into hers. His grip was warm, strong, and somehow trusting in a way that made her chest ache. Perhaps, he had stopped doubting her but what changed?
