Make Me Yours

Chapter 16 - Love and Distance

The late afternoon sun cast a warm golden hue across the sprawling estate as Ralph and Laura pulled up to their grand home, having just returned from their visit with Ralph's enigmatic grandmother, Grace. The scent of blooming roses and freshly cut grass greeted them, mingling with the sense of tranquility that seemed to envelop the property. The visit had been pleasant, Grace's wisdom and stories weaving an enchanting atmosphere that left both Ralph and Laura feeling oddly rejuvenated.

As they stepped out of the car, Ralph turned to Laura with a playful glint in his eyes. "You know, Laura," he said with a sly smile, "I couldn't help but notice how happy Grace seemed surrounded by us, her family. Maybe it's time for us to start thinking about creating a family of our own."

Laura's cheeks flushed, and she glanced down, suddenly shy. "Ralph, you're teasing me."

He chuckled softly, reaching out to gently lift her chin, making her meet his gaze. "I am, but I'm also serious. I think you'd make an incredible mother, and I'd love nothing more than to share that journey with you."

Laura's heart fluttered at his words, her fingers instinctively intertwining with his. "I... I'd love that too."

Ralph leaned in, his lips brushing against hers in a tender kiss. Time seemed to slow down as they embraced, the world around them fading away until there was only the two of them, lost in the magic of their connection.

Later that night, their bedroom was illuminated only by the soft glow of moonlight filtering through the curtains. Ralph's touch was gentle yet possessive as he traced his fingers along the curve of Laura's spine, leaving a trail of fire in their wake. Their whispered words of affection mingled with soft sighs, painting the air with an intimacy that was uniquely theirs.

Their bodies moved together in a dance of desire and love, a symphony of sensations that left them both breathless and lost in each other. As the night wore on, their fervent connection deepened, binding them together in a way that went beyond the physical.

As the first rays of dawn painted the sky in shades of pink and orange, Ralph and Laura lay wrapped in each other's arms, their breathing gradually steadying. Ralph brushed a stray strand of hair from Laura's face and pressed a lingering kiss to her forehead.

"I wish moments like these could last forever," he murmured, his voice a mere whisper.

Laura nestled closer to him, her fingers tracing lazy patterns on his chest. "Me too. But I know you have responsibilities, Ralph."

Ralph's expression grew serious, and he sighed. "Yes, you're right. I need to go to our headquarters in the other country for about five months. I want to ensure everything is running smoothly there."

Laura's heart sank a little at the news, but she understood the necessity of his actions. "I'll miss you," she admitted, her voice barely audible.

Ralph cupped her cheek, his eyes tender as he gazed at her. "I'll miss you too, more than words can say. But I won't leave you alone. Troy will be here with you."

Laura's eyes widened in surprise. "Troy? Your younger brother?"

Ralph nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "Yes, he's been working closely with me and understands the business well. Plus, he was the one who delivered gifts to you on my behalf when I couldn't be here."

A mixture of emotions swirled within Laura as she processed this information. Troy had always been kind and amiable whenever she had interacted with him, but he was also a reminder of Ralph's absence during the early days of their marriage.

Ralph seemed to sense her thoughts and pulled her into a gentle embrace. "Laura, I trust Troy completely, and I promise you'll be in good hands. And I'll be back before you know it."