Page 70 of Doctor Second Chance

"It really was," Shep agrees, kissing my forehead. "I forgot how well we move together."

We fall into a comfortable silence, just enjoying the moment. Eventually, Shep speaks up again.

"So, we've got the whole day free. Do you have any requests?"

I ponder for a moment. "Well, it's Sunday. What does he usually like to do on his days off?"

Shep chuckles. "He's four. Every day is a day off for him. But he loves any kind of exploring. I did some research when I went into the office for a bit yesterday. What do you think about the McWane Science Center? They have exhibits related to marine life that I thought you might like. One in particular is called the “World of Water,” which includes various marine life displays. I think I read that it does a deep dive into the aquatic species, including touch tanks where you can interact with marine creatures and educational displays about ocean ecosystems. "

"That sounds perfect," I reply, already imagining what kind of setup they have. The nerd in me loves that kind of stuff. "That is sweet of you, Shep. You continue to impress me with your thoughtfulness. You're just full of surprises, aren't you?"

"I've got more than one I want to show you this morning…"

The morning light dances across Shep's features, casting a warm glow on his skin. I trace the contours of his face with my fingertips, the stubble rough against my touch. His eyes flutter open, a sleepy smile playing on his lips as he pulls me closer.

"Good morning," he whispers, his voice a low rumble that gives me goosebumps all over my body.

I can't help but grin back at him. "Morning."

Our lips meet in a gentle kiss, a soft exploration that quickly deepens with the promise of the morning. His hands roam over my body, each touch igniting a trail of sparks beneath my skin. I arch into him, craving the connection we've rekindled after all these years.

We're both acutely aware of the quiet house around us. The stillness is punctuated only by the occasional creak of the old wooden beams. Opie is still asleep, and we have this stolen moment to ourselves—a precious sliver of time where it's just the two of us at the start of the day, lost in each other.

Shep's hands slide down my back, pulling me flush against him. I can feel the heat of his body, the steady thrum of his heartbeat against my chest. Our legs tangle together, a dance of limbs that's as familiar as it is new.

I straddle him, my movements slow and deliberate. I want to savor every second, every sensation. His eyes never leave mine as I lower myself onto him, a soft gasp escaping my lips as he fills me completely.

We move together in a rhythm as old as time, our bodies perfectly in sync. It's a dance of give and take, a silent conversation where words are unnecessary. Each thrust is a question, each moan an answer.

Shep's hands cup my face, his thumbs brushing away the stray tears that have slipped from my eyes. This connection that we share is overwhelming. It’s more than just physical—it’s a reawakening of everything we once were and could be again.

Our lovemaking is a series of soft whispers and gentle caresses, a quiet affirmation of the bond that still exists between us. We're careful to keep our sounds of pleasure to a minimum, mindful of the little boy sleeping just down the hall.

As we reach the crescendo, Shep captures my cries with a searing kiss, swallowing my moans as we find our release together. It's a moment of pure ecstasy, a perfect fusion of bodies and souls.

We lay there in the aftermath, our breaths slowly returning to normal. Shep's arms are a safe haven around me, a shelter from the outside world. I rest my head on his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heart.

"I could stay like this forever," I murmur, my voice barely above a whisper.

Shep presses a tender kiss to the top of my head. "We've got all the time in the world, Elle."

And in this moment, I almost believe him.

McWane Science Center

200 19th St N

5:12 pm

After watching the most spectacular World of Water exhibit, I sit on the bench in the outdoor courtyard, savoring my chocolate ice cream cone. The sun is starting to dip a little lower in the sky, reducing the scorching heat but still casting a warm glow over everything. Shep and Opie are beside me, both working on their cones—vanilla for Shep and strawberry for Opie.

"Did you see how big that shark was, Daddy?" Opie exclaims, ice cream smeared across his chin and a single pink sprinkle on his cheek.

Shep chuckles, reaching over to wipe his son's face. "I sure did, buddy. It was huge!"

I can't help but smile at their interaction. Watching Shep with Opie all day has been a joy. He's very attentive and so clearly in love with his son. It makes my heart swell.

"What was your favorite part, Elle?" Opie asks, turning his bright eyes to me.

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