Page 45 of Her Alien Owner

"It is fair," I insist, taking both her hands now. "And if there's anything that makes you uncomfortable or unsure, tell me immediately."

She nods slowly, absorbing my words.

"And for the record," I add with a small smile, trying to lighten the mood just a bit, "you don’t have to be perfect for me. You already are in ways that matter."

Her lips curve into a hesitant smile at that.

"I'm serious," I say earnestly. "We’re partners in this, Ariana. It’s not just about my business or your father’s job. It’s about us."

Ariana squeezes my hands gently. "Alright," she says finally, meeting my gaze with newfound resolve. "I’ll give this a chance."

"That's all I'm asking for," I reply softly.

In this moment of fragile understanding and shared vulnerability, we stand together on the precipice of something deeper—something real.

And as she leans into me slightly, resting her forehead against mine, I can feel the barriers between us beginning to crumble.

We’re in this together now.

The garden stretches before us, a sea of vibrant blooms and manicured hedges. The setting sun casts a golden hue, painting everything in a warm, almost ethereal light. I guide Ariana down the stone path, her arm nestled comfortably in mine.

We reach a bench near a small pond, its surface reflecting the colors of the sky. I sit first and pat the space beside me. She hesitates for a moment before sitting down, her body language relaxed yet cautious.

For a few moments, we sit in silence, watching as the sun dips lower on the horizon. The air grows cooler, and Ariana shivers slightly.

Without thinking, I wrap an arm around her shoulders, pulling her closer. She tenses briefly but then relaxes into my embrace.

"Better?" I ask.

"Much," she murmurs.

We watch as the last rays of sunlight disappear behind the distant hills. Ariana rests her head on my shoulder, her trust evident in this simple gesture.

"You know," she says softly, "I was really angry about what you did for my father."

"I know," I reply equally softly.

"But," she continues after a pause, "I think... maybe you were trying to help in your own way."

"Maybe?" I tease lightly.

She nudges me with her elbow but smiles. "Definitely."

I tighten my grip on her slightly, feeling an overwhelming need to protect this woman who’s slowly becoming my everything.

"Ariana," I begin seriously, "I vow never to break your trust again."

She looks up at me with those wide eyes filled with hope and lingering doubt.

"I believe you," she says finally.

In that moment under the fading light of day, with Ariana leaning into me and our hearts beating in sync, I know one thing for certain: I'll do whatever it takes to keep that promise.

CHAPTER 19

ARIANA

Isit on the edge of my bed, running my fingers through my hair, which falls in soft waves down my back. The moonlight filters through the thin curtains, casting a silver glow over the room. My thoughts are a tangled mess of gratitude, confusion, and frustration.