Mitchel's heart surged with desire, grappling to contain his yearning.

His gaze deepened as he attempted to suppress his desire. He dared not betray the hard-earned trust.

Although enduring was challenging, having already waited five years, he could endure a bit longer. He hoped she would willingly surrender herself to him.

Reluctantly shifting his gaze from her countenance, just as he prepared to recline for repose, he heard her murmuring. "Honey..."

The peacefully slumbering Raegan suddenly uttered such a phrase.

Instantly, Mitchel's heart raced uncontrollably.

He gently pinched Raegan's cheek, his voice husky as he inquired, “What did you just say?"

Possibly discomforted by the pinch, Raegan shifted away, emitting an unconscious hum.

Only then did Mitchel discern that she was speaking in her sleep.

His body tensed, Mitchel gently brushed aside the hair from her delicate neck, saying coaxingly, “Raegan, my dear, repeat it once more."

Raegan dreamt of Kabir, her acting husband in Erick's efforts to keep Mitchel from learning he was precisely Janey's biological father.

Unconsciously, her lips moved, uttering softly, "You're not my husband..."

Mitchel's forehead creased slightly, correcting her, “I am."

Exhausted, Raegan was unwilling to continue speaking.

Mitchel, feeling helpless, softly patted her back. “Rest peacefully.”

Dawn was breaking.

Raegan gradually blinked her eyes open, automatically stretching.

Amidst of her stretch, her hand met with something solid, causing her to halt suddenly.

Glancing over, she realized she had inadvertently clasped onto Mitchel's chest.

In a panic, she scrambled to sit upright. Yet, her sudden movement caused dizziness, and she tumbled onto Mitchel.