Mark's gaze lingered on her, the weight of their month-long separation heavy on his heart.

Her lingering frustration evident, Cecilia playfully nudged him with her foot.

“Shouldn't you be back there, playing the doting knight to Elaine? Why are you following me?"

Elaine had nearly slipped Mark's mind.

After a couple of playful nudges from Cecilia, Mark teasingly grabbed her ankle.

Cecilia's cheeks flushed.

“What do you take me for, a dancer? That hurt! Now let go of my leg.”

Her leg ached, almost as if she'd strained it.

Mark, sensing her genuine discomfort, quickly released and began to massage her leg.

After a moment, Mark leaned in, planting a gentle kiss, "Better now?"

Cecilia responded with silence, her annoyance palpable.

Mark brushed her cheek softly.

"You were incredible back there.

You've grown into such a strong woman. I feel like you could guard me now."

Cecilia frowned at his jest.

Was he having too much fun at her expense?

Without a word, Mark unbuckled and swapped seats with her.

After he'd been driving for a bit, Cecilia finally broke her reflective silence.

“Where are we headed?"

Gripping the steering wheel, Mark calmly inquired, “Where would you like to go?"