My Boyfriend is My Doctor

CHAPTER 28 First Steps into the Outside World

The next morning, Marnie awoke with the soft sunlight spilling across their bedroom. Her body stretched slowly beneath the warm sheets, but her mind was alert. Today felt different. Not because of the marriage itself, but because Michael had suggested something new the night before.

“I think… it’s time for you to step outside,” he had said softly, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “Not just the balcony. The world outside our condo. I want you to feel what it’s like to live as my wife… in Manila.”

Marnie had felt a flutter of excitement mixed with nervousness at the idea. The city was overwhelming even on its own; being married and exploring it felt like stepping into a dream she didn’t know she could reach.

Now, as she sat up, she noticed Michael was already up and dressed, casually sharp in a crisp polo and khaki pants. He looked at her with a calm smile that always seemed to ease her racing heart.

“Good morning,” he said, his voice low, reassuring.

“Good morning,” she replied, smiling back shyly. “Are we… going out?”

“Yes,” he answered simply. “We’ll start small. A stroll. A breakfast at that café you mentioned yesterday.”

Marnie blinked, then bit her lip. “Just… us?”

“Just us,” he confirmed. “No one else. You won’t feel pressured, I promise.”

The thought of spending the day with him alone, away from the walls of the condo, brought a mixture of comfort and trepidation. She had never been this dependent on a man, yet never felt so safe.

Preparing for the Day

She dressed carefully, choosing a light pastel dress that fell just above her knees, paired with simple sandals. She avoided heavy makeup, only lightly brushing her cheeks and lips. When she walked into the living room, Michael’s gaze softened at the sight of her.

“You look… perfect,” he said. “Are you ready?”

She nodded quietly, her stomach fluttering with anticipation. She was ready, yet still nervous about how the world would perceive them.

Michael held the door for her as they left the condo, the soft hum of the city greeting them. The streets were already alive with morning traffic, vendors calling out, and the distant sound of jeepneys rattling along the avenues.

Her hand brushed his casually at first, but as a honking horn made her flinch, she instinctively held onto his arm. He didn’t move, didn’t question her, only adjusted his pace so she could feel secure.

A Café in the Heart of the City

They arrived at a small café tucked between a bookstore and a florist shop. It was cozy, the kind of place that smelled of roasted coffee beans and fresh pastries, with the faint hum of soft music in the background.

“This looks nice,” Marnie said softly, almost in awe.

Michael guided her to a table near the window, seating her before taking his own. “You’ll get used to this city eventually,” he said lightly. “But for now… just enjoy it with me.”

The menu was overwhelming at first. Marnie hesitated, unsure what to order. Michael, noticing her hesitation, smiled and suggested a few gentle options: scrambled eggs with toast, a small fruit platter, and a cappuccino.

When the food arrived, he quietly studied her while she ate, as though memorizing her expressions. “You know,” he said, “seeing you like this… it makes me realize how much I want to protect you.”

Her fork froze mid-air. “Protect me? Michael…”

“Yes,” he said firmly, his eyes meeting hers with unwavering honesty. “I know we just married, but I can’t help how I feel. You’re my wife now. I want to shield you from harm, from fear… from the world if I can.”

Marnie felt a flush rise to her cheeks. His words weren’t overbearing; they were gentle, protective—but not controlling. It made her want to lean closer, to let him in even more.

The City Walk

After breakfast, they walked through the nearby streets. Michael let her take the lead, allowing her to stop and glance at shop windows or pause to watch street performers. Whenever she hesitated near the curb or seemed uneasy with the crowds, he gently placed a hand on her back or took her hand.

“I feel… safe with you,” she admitted quietly as they crossed a busy intersection.

“You always will,” he replied without hesitation. “No matter where we go, I’ll keep you safe.”

The city that had once seemed so intimidating now appeared softer through Michael’s presence. The noise became background music, the bustle felt like life itself, vibrant and alive. For the first time, Marnie realized that exploring Manila could be… exhilarating.

They stopped by a small boutique where she admired clothes and accessories. Michael let her pick a few items, insisting on paying without argument. Watching him smile as he handed over his credit card, she felt a surge of affection. She realized she didn’t just want him to protect her; she wanted to share life with him, even the mundane moments like shopping.

A Quiet Moment

By mid-afternoon, they found a quiet park nearby. Michael suggested they sit on a bench under a large tree, letting the city hum around them without feeling the pressure of it.

Marnie rested her head against his shoulder, feeling the steady beat of his heart. “Michael…” she murmured.

“Yes?”

“I’m… happy,” she admitted softly. “Even though everything is moving so fast, I feel… safe. And cared for. And… loved.”

He kissed the top of her head gently. “You are loved,” he said softly. “By me. Always.”

She tilted her head to look at him. “Do you… really love me that much? Even with how young I am?”

“I do,” he said simply. “Your age doesn’t matter. Your heart does, and your heart is beautiful. I love everything about you, Marnie. Every thought, every feeling, every quiet hesitation… I love it all.”

Tears pricked at her eyes. She had never heard words so genuine, so unshakable.

“I… I think I’m falling for you even more,” she whispered.

He held her hand tightly. “Then I’ll hold you, forever.”

Evening Return

They returned to the condo as the sun began to set, the city lighting up with a golden glow. Marnie felt tired but exhilarated. Michael noticed her fatigue and guided her gently to the sofa.

“Relax,” he said softly. “I’ll handle dinner tonight. You’ve done enough today.”

But before he could leave, Marnie grabbed his hand. “Wait… I want to help. Just a little.”

He looked at her, eyes soft. “Alright. Just a little,” he agreed, smiling.

And for the first time, Marnie realized that being Michael’s wife didn’t mean losing herself. It meant sharing life with someone who cherished her, protected her, and let her be herself—slowly, carefully, genuinely.

That night, as they lay in bed once again, Marnie felt something she hadn’t expected: a sense of belonging. Not to the city, not even to Michael entirely—but to a life they would build together.

A life she could finally call her own.

Her hand brushed against his in the dark, and this time, she didn’t pull away.

“Goodnight, Michael,” she whispered.

“Goodnight, my wife,” he replied, his voice a comforting anchor in the night.

And with that, she closed her eyes, ready to face the next day—together.