Zane descended the staircase, his little beauty cradled tenderly in his arms. His gaze lifted and collided with a sight that froze him mid-stride. Chris stood at the entrance, his face lit with a familiar smile that faltered, then vanished altogether, recognizing the damsel in Zane's arms. The tension in the air was thick, creating an uncomfortable and intense atmosphere that left everyone at a loss for words. The visible shock on Chris's face only deepened Zane's realization that he needed to provide an explanation. Aria stirred slightly in his embrace, the movement pulling Zane back to the moment. Her face flushed as she registered the scene before her and her own state, dressed only in Zane’s oversized shirt. The realization turned her blush deeper, and she averted her eyes, trying to

