Chapter 113 - Please, Be Gentle

The soft murmur of conversations and the clinking of champagne glasses filled the elegant ballroom where Daisy and Daniel's wedding was in full swing. Stefan couldn't take his eyes off his wife, Amber. She looked stunning in the custom gown he had arranged, a delicate creation that seemed to shimmer under the soft lights. Her makeup artist did a great job of hiding her bruises, making her skin look flawless.

Stefan himself was dressed in a tailored suit that perfectly complemented her dress, symbolizing their unity and love. Amber glanced up at him as they stood together, feeling his gaze. "You look wonderful," Stefan murmured, his voice filled with admiration and love. "I can't believe how lucky I am to have you by my side."

Amber blushed, a warm flush spreading across her cheeks. "Thank you, Stefan. You look incredibly handsome, too. This suit... it's perfect."

Stefan smiled, his eyes twinkling with affection. "I wanted us to look our best tonight. It's a special day for Daisy and Daniel, and I wanted to make sure we could celebrate it fully as a happy couple," he said, poking her cute nose.

Amber's heart swelled with emotion. She reached out, taking his hand. "I'm so glad we're here together," she said softly. "Daisy and Daniel are such wonderful people. They deserve all the happiness in the world."

Stefan nodded, his gaze never leaving hers. "And so do we, Amber. I know things have been complicated, but I promise I'll do everything possible to make you happy."

Amber's eyes shimmered with unshed tears. "I know you will, Stefan. And I'll do the same for you."

Stefan's presence was magnetic as they moved through the crowd, congratulating the newlyweds. Many attendees, especially Stefan's employees from Lehman Shop, couldn't help but notice how deeply in love they were. Daisy and Daniel beamed with happiness as Stefan and Amber approached.

"Thank you both so much for being here," Daisy said, her voice filled with genuine gratitude. "It means the world to us."

Daniel nodded, smiling warmly. "Yeah, we're really honored. Mr. and Mrs. Morgan, your presence makes this day even more special."

Stefan shook their hands, his demeanor humble and respectful. "The honor is ours. Congratulations to both of you. It's a beautiful wedding, and I can see your love. I wish you all the best in your new life together."

Amber hugged Daisy tightly, her eyes glistening. "I'm so happy for you, Daisy. You deserve all the joy in the world. And Daniel, you've got yourself an amazing woman."

Daisy laughed, her eyes shining with happiness. "Thank you, Amber. And thank you, Mr. Morgan. It's wonderful to have friends like you."

As the night went on, the bond between Stefan and Amber seemed to grow even more vital. Stefan couldn't help but feel a deep sense of contentment and pride as he watched his wife charm everyone around her. Despite the grand setting and the whispers of envy from those around them, he knew their love made the evening special.

Later, as they danced under the soft glow of the chandeliers, Stefan leaned in close to Amber, whispering in her ear. "Thank you for being with me tonight. I love you more than words can say."

Amber looked up at him, her heart full, her cheeks blushing. "I love you too, Stefan. Always."

After the wedding, Stefan took Amber's hand and led her towards the waiting car. "I have a surprise for you," he said, a mysterious smile on his lips.

Amber looked at him with a mix of curiosity and confusion. "A surprise? Where are we going?"

"You'll see," Stefan replied, his eyes twinkling with excitement. He opened the car door for her, and once they were settled inside, the driver started the journey towards an unknown destination.

As they drove through the city, Amber couldn't help but wonder where they were headed. Her mind raced with possibilities, but she trusted Stefan completely. After some time, they arrived at the Opulence Haven Hotel, a grand structure owned by the Lehman Group.

The moment they stepped out of the car, they were greeted by a flurry of staff members who treated them like royalty. The hotel employees had been informed of Stefan and Amber's identity, and they ensured every detail was perfect for their stay. Amber was still trying to process everything as they were escorted to the penthouse on the top floor.

Once inside, the luxury of the suite took her breath away. The panoramic view of the city lights was stunning, and the decor was elegant and sophisticated. Stefan watched her reaction with satisfaction, knowing that his plan was unfolding perfectly.

"This is... amazing," Amber whispered, facing him. "But why all this, Stefan?"

Stefan took her hands in his, leading her to the plush sofa. "I wanted to do something special for you, to show you how much you mean to me." He paused, looking deeply into her eyes. "Amber, I know I've kept a lot from you. My identity, my plans, my fears. But now that Matteo and Joseph are in jail and will be sentenced soon, I don't have to hide anymore."

Stefan always had doubts that her parent's death wasn't an accident and that the people behind it would go after him if he tried to have it investigated, so he didn't want Amber to get involved as much as possible. 

Amber nodded, her eyes softening. "I understand, Stefan. But why did you feel the need to hide so much?"

Stefan sighed, his expression serious. "I did it for our safety. When we got married, I didn't know who my enemies were. I couldn't risk exposing you to any danger. It was best that you didn't know anything about my real identity and my parents' death. The threat was real, and I had to protect you," he said, pinching Amber's chin.

Amber's heart ached to hear the sincerity in his voice. She reached out and cupped his cheek. "Stefan, I believe you. Carrying all that weight alone must have been so hard for you. But we're a team now, right?. You don't have to do it alone anymore."

A wave of relief washed over Stefan, and he embraced her tightly. "Yes, we are, baby. Thank you for understanding. Can you forgive me now?"

Amber held him close, feeling the warmth and strength of his love. "I forgive you, Stefan. And I love you. No more secrets, okay?"

Stefan nodded, his voice choked with emotion. "No more secrets. From now on, we face everything together."

They stayed like that for a long time, wrapped in each other's arms, finding comfort and strength in their love. The weight of the past began to lift, replaced by a newfound sense of trust and unity.

Later, as they stood by the window, looking out at the city below, Amber felt a sense of peace she hadn't known in a long time. "This is beautiful," she said softly.

Stefan kissed her forehead. "Not as beautiful as you, baby. You're my everything, Amber."

Stefan leaned in, his lips tenderly meeting Amber's forehead repeatedly. She shivered slightly, not from the cold but from the intimacy they were about to share. As he moved to kiss her lips, she whispered, her voice a mixture of excitement and trepidation, "Stefan, please... be gentle."

Stefan pulled back slightly, confusion flickering in his eyes. "Of course, my love. Always... Did I hurt you before?" His voice trailed off as he saw the emotions playing across her face.

Amber took a deep breath, her hands trembling slightly as they rested on his chest. "I have something to tell you," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'm... we're... having a baby."