"Thanks," Julie murmured softly, her voice still carrying a hint of shyness.
Roman's smile deepened, warm and impossingly gentle. He leaned in without hurry, his presence enveloping her like a protective cloak, and pressed a soft kiss to her forehead.
The touch was light, yet it sent a small wave of heat across her cheeks, as though his warmth had seeped straight through her skin.
It was already past eleven in the morning. Sunlight filtered through the long curtains of the room, scattering golden warmth across the floor.
Julie and Roman, fully dressed and finally prepared to step out, walked side by side toward the door.
Their footsteps fell in quiet rhythm as they moved down the stairs.
"Are you feeling alright now," Roman asked, tilting his head slightly so he could see her expression, "or should I help you walk?"
Julie blinked up at him, surprised. "You will help me… how?" She raised a brow, a tiny amused smile curving her lips.
