DIVIDED ALLEGIANCE

THE STRENGTH BEHIND HER .

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Arianna steered her car into the garage, carefully parking it behind Richard's. His presence at home was a welcome sign.

"Thanks, Frank," she called to their security guard, his cheerful greeting a familiar comfort.

"Anytime, Ma'am Arianna," Frank replied, his enthusiasm genuine. Richard always admired her ability to connect with everyone, regardless of their position.

He'd been waiting for her, a quiet anticipation building as the minutes ticked by. When she finally called out, "Honey, I'm back," a smile bloomed on his face. He moved quickly to greet her, his arms eager for the familiar weight of her embrace.

"Hey, baby," he murmured, engulfing her in a tight hug.

He loosened his grip immediately when she gasped, "Heyy Richard, you're choking me!"

"Sorry, love," he said, his eyes filled with concern. "Just missed you so much. How was your day?"

He showered her cheeks and forehead with tender kisses, his admiration for her a constant hum beneath the surface.

"You look so beautiful, my love," he complimented, watching the familiar blush creep up her neck. Her shy reaction always touched him, a sweet vulnerability that belied her powerful courtroom persona.

"All for you, darling," she replied, her lips brushing his in a quick, loving kiss.

His smile widened, the dimples he knew she adored deepening. "Another win today! I heard. So incredibly proud of you, babe." He pressed a light kiss to her nose, cherishing these small moments.

Arianna's smile radiated. "Thanks, honey. But it's all thanks to you."

A surprised look crossed his features. "Me?"

She nodded, her gaze soft. "Yes, love. Your support, your belief in me... it means everything. You're such a huge part of my success. I love you."

His heart swelled at her words, his eyes reflecting the depth of his love. "And I love you more," he replied, a playful wink escaping. He held her close, breathing in her scent, the essence of his happiness.

"You're amazing, Arianna," he said, his voice filled with genuine admiration. "Even without me, you'd achieve incredible things. You're the most diligent, determined woman I know. I'm so lucky to have you." He cupped her face gently. "You're my world, Arianna. I'm nothing without you."

Tears welled in her eyes as she gazed into his, her love mirroring his own. "I love you so much," she whispered, her lips finding his again. His kiss was a silent testament to their unwavering bond.

"And I already made dinner," he announced, a hint of pride in his voice. "Figured you'd be exhausted. Your favorite."

Arianna's face lit up. "Thanks, darling. You're the best."

He simply shrugged, pleased to have eased her day.

Later, as she freshened up upstairs, he finished setting the table, a small act of love. They ate together, their conversation a comfortable rhythm of shared lives. The dishes were a joint effort, punctuated by laughter.

In the intimacy of their bedroom, his admiration was a tangible thing.

"You're breathtaking, love," he murmured, drawing closer, his gaze unwavering.

She closed the distance, her kiss a tender expression of her love and gratitude. Her arms wrapped around his neck, his hands finding the familiar curve of her waist. In their embrace, the day's stresses faded, replaced by the profound comfort of their connection.

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© _adira_h