* Julliane *
After three long, restless days in the hospital, I was finally back at Magnolia Manor. Lance had driven me home, his steady presence a comfort even as the car crunched over the gravel driveway. As soon as we arrived, he insisted on carrying me through the grand double doors, up the sweeping staircase, and down the long, polished hallway to my bedroom.
"Lance, you don't have to do this," I protested, my face flushed with embarrassment as I clung to his broad shoulders, trying to hide my crimson cheeks.
He just chuckled, his chest rumbling against my side. "What's wrong, sweetheart? Everyone knows we're about to get married. You shouldn't be embarrassed to be carried by your husband-to-be like this. And you're still injured. I want to make sure you heal well before the gown f
