Page 40 of Rescuing Sophia

I glance at my watch. Blake is probably back from working with his team by now.

“Wow, I didn’t realize how much time has passed. Thank you so much for taking the time to show me around.” My words are sincere. “This was fascinating. There’s just so much to take in. I’d love to come back if that’s allowed… If only to drool at all the marvelous tech.”

“I get that a lot around here, and you’re more than welcome to visit anytime you want.”

As we leave the building, I take one last look around, cementing every detail in my mind. I’ve done what I came to do. Now comes the hard part.

TWELVE

Blake

Over the next few days,a new rhythm settles in—a routine that feels strangely domestic, almost comforting. Each morning, I head off to work, the hours consumed with strategy meetings and security briefings.

Meanwhile, Sophia spends her days with Jenna, learning the ins and outs of making coffee as the shop slowly takes shape. Construction on The Guardian Grind hums along, transforming the empty building into something warm and inviting.

Each evening when I return home, there’s a lightness to Sophia that wasn’t there before, a small victory with every skill she masters. It’s as if she’s reclaiming pieces of herself, one cup of coffee at a time.

The weight of everything she’s been through still lingers, but with each passing day, I see new signs of healing—small steps as she starts to figure out who she is and what she truly wants from life.

We’ve also been cautiously exploring our dynamic, testing the waters of power exchange. It’s a slow, delicate process woven into our routine like a thread of understanding and trust. With each conversation and every subtle shift in control, we discover newdepths in ourselves and in each other, finding a balance that feels right for us.

“Honey, I’m home.” I push open the door, arms loaded with boxes. The scent of garlic and herbs fills the air, though there’s a hint of something… Burnt?

Sophia peeks around the kitchen doorway, a smudge of flour on her cheek. When she sees me, her eyes light up, and I can’t help but smile back. “Welcome home, darling. How was your day at the office?”

Her playful response brings a smile to my face.

I set the boxes down, drinking in the sight of her. The domesticity of it all sends a warmth spreading through my chest.

“Oh, you know, same old, same old. Saved the world, stopped a few bad guys, bought my woman clothes at the store, all before lunch.”

She rolls her eyes, brandishing a wooden spoon at me. “My hero. Now make yourself useful and unpack while I finish dinner.”

I snap a mock salute, grinning as she disappears back into the kitchen.

The clattering of pots and pans fills the air as I start unpacking. A timer dings, followed by a muffled curse.

“Everything okay in there?”

“Fine! Everything’s fine!” Her voice is slightly higher than usual.

I chuckle, imagining her frantic attempts to salvage whatever’s in the oven.

I saunter into the kitchen, wrapping my arms around her waist from behind. The heat from the stove warms my skin as I nuzzle her neck, inhaling the scent of her shampoo mixed with cooking spices.

“What’s on the menu tonight, chef?”

Sophia leans back into me, her body soft and pliant.

“Trying my hand at chicken parmesan. No promises on edibility.”

I squeeze her hips gently, pressing closer. The fabric of her dress is thin, and every soft curve presses against me.

“I’m sure it’ll be delicious, but you know…” I trail kisses along her neck, feeling her shiver. “We could always skip straight to dessert.”

“Down, boy.” She squirms in my arms, her breath hitching. “This might taste good, and I won’t have you ruining my hard work.”

“It would be worth it.” I growl playfully, nipping at her earlobe.

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