Chapter 495

Chapter 495

His eyes were wide open, not a hint of sleepiness, and filled with a gentle, indulgent smile as he gazed at her intently.

Stanley didn't say another word. Instead, he leaned in slightly, letting his actions speak for him, and kissed her lips with precision.

This kiss wasn't about passion or desire; it felt more like a solemn declaration.

It was as tender as the morning light streaming through the window, softly tracing the shape of her lips, carrying the unique intimacy and greeting of dawn, as if confirming that she was truly here, in his world.

He soon released her, his deep gaze lingering on her flushed cheeks for a moment before he swiftly pulled back the covers and got out of bed.

"Get some more sleep. I'll make breakfast."

Diana stared blankly at Stanley's tall, upright figure as he disappeared into the bathroom, listening to the sound of running water. The long-empty, cold corner of her heart was slowly and steadily being filled with a warm emotion.

She didn't lie back down as he suggested but sat up, looking around the unfamiliar room.

This was Stanley's bedroom.

Yesterday, Kaitlyn had entrusted her to Stanley with a relieved smile and then perceptively retreated to her own room, leaving the world to them.

Stanley had driven her here, to a penthouse apartment at the city's peak, a place she had never been before.

They had kissed on the bed, whispering their love to each other.

She had opened the door and immediately seen his tall figure quietly waiting on the living room sofa.

In the moonlight, he looked like a silent guardian.

Stanley hadn't asked any questions. He had simply walked over, taken her cold, trembling hand in his warm, dry one, and led her back to the master bedroom.

And now, here they were.

Diana, barefoot, stepped onto the soft carpet and opened the built-in wardrobe.

A whole row of brand-new women's clothes hung inside.

From formal dresses to casual wear, from skirts to pants, each piece was precisely her size and in the simple, elegant style she had always preferred.

Diana casually picked a cream-colored cashmere knit dress and put it on. The soft fabric against her skin brought a comforting warmth.

As she walked out of the bedroom, the enticing aroma of food wafted up from downstairs.

She followed the spiral staircase down and immediately saw Stanley's tall figure busy in the open kitchen.

Stanley was wearing a high-quality dark gray silk loungewear set, which made his figure look even more upright and strong. Around his waist was a whimsical Minions apron.

The stark contrast added a layer of homely warmth to the usually cold and decisive Stanley.

He was focused on the eggs in the frying pan, his movements smooth and practiced, showing the skill of someone who cooked often.

Morning light poured through the large floor-to-ceiling windows, casting a golden glow around him.

The scene was so beautiful it felt like a dream she didn't want to wake from.

Diana's steps were light, as if afraid to disturb this perfect picture.

She silently walked up behind Stanley, not saying a word, and gently wrapped her arms around his strong waist from behind, with a hint of hesitation and reliance.

Her cheek pressed against his broad, warm back, feeling his body heat and the firm texture of his muscles through the thin silk.

The steady, powerful heartbeat, transmitted through their close contact, strangely soothed all her anxieties.

Stanley's body stiffened for a moment.

He calmly turned off the stove, plated the perfectly cooked eggs, and then turned around, embracing her fully and firmly.

"Why didn't you sleep a bit more?" His chin lightly brushed the top of her head, his voice filled with undeniable tenderness.

"Couldn't sleep." Diana buried her face deep in his solid chest, her voice muffled and tinged with a slight nasal tone.

"Are you hungry? Breakfast is almost ready."

"Stanley," she suddenly said, calling his name.

"What is it?" His voice came from above her head, carrying a reassuring vibration.

"Thank you."

Thank you for not taking advantage of me yesterday.

Thank you for standing guard like a knight last night.

And thank you for giving me such a peaceful, luxurious morning.

Stanley seemed to understand all the unspoken words. He just held her tighter, his deep voice full of affection.

"Silly girl."

On the dining table was a simple yet exquisite Western breakfast.

Perfectly cooked eggs, golden crispy toast, and a cup of warm milk at just the right temperature.

Diana ate slowly, savoring the food's sweetness for the first time in three years.

After breakfast, Stanley picked up the car keys from the entryway, his tone matter-of-fact.

"I'll drive you to work."

This time, Diana didn't refuse.

She opened the passenger door and habitually reached for the seatbelt, only to see a particularly delicate velvet gift bag on the seat.

She picked it up, her fingers touching the soft velvet, and opened it to find colorful imported chocolates and candies inside, their sweet aroma filling the air.

"What's this?" Diana's heart skipped a beat.

"Candy," Stanley said as he started the car, his voice steady and firm, "Make sure to share with your colleagues."

Diana's fingers tightened around the gift bag.

Share the candy.

Diana suppressed the flutter in her heart.

She would return to the crowd as a cherished wife, openly accepting everyone's scrutiny and blessings.

She suddenly turned her head, looking at the rapidly retreating street scene outside the window, the bright sunlight stinging her eyes.

The car smoothly stopped in front of the university building where Diana worked.

She unbuckled her seatbelt but didn't get out immediately.

"Stanley."

"What is it?"

Diana suddenly leaned over, her soft lips pressing a light but solemn kiss on his sharply defined cheek.

Like a dragonfly skimming the water, it was brief but significant.

Then, she grabbed the red gift bag filled with candy, as if holding a powerful sword, and pushed open the car door.

Without looking back, she walked into the entrance of the teaching building with straight posture and determined steps, like a warrior heading to a new battlefield, filled with unprecedented courage and radiance.

As she stepped through the door, the world seemed to fall silent.

The familiar office noise—a mix of keyboard clacking, whispered conversations, and the rustling of papers—was abruptly cut off, as if seized by an invisible giant hand.

Dozens of eyes, like searchlights, instantly focused on Diana.