Harmony in Emergencies

14

As he got dressed for the award ceremony Ben's guilt still gnawed at him. Standing before the mirror, Ben buttoned up his shirt, his hand trembling slightly with nerves. Each movement felt mechanical as if he were going through the motions without truly being present. He couldn't shake the feeling of guilt that consumed him, the knowledge that his actions had come at a cost.

He found himself struggling. He had limited movement in his other hand due to the cast and he couldn't keep his hands steady anyway. He stepped back to take a deep breath.

"Need any help?" Miranda asked, peeking into the room with a concerned expression.

Ben glanced up, offering her a sheepish smile. "I think I've got it, but thanks."

Despite his efforts to maintain a sense of independence, Ben couldn't help but feel frustrated by the limitations imposed by his injury.

"Ask for help Benjamin" She walked over and fastened his buttons for him

"Thank you"

"Here let's get your jacket" She took the suit jacket off the hanger and helped him get it on making sure to carefully slide it over his cast. She got his bow tie and helped him with that as well. As she helped him she saw the look of apprehension on his face. She knew he was still beating himself up over everything lately. She hoped tonight would be a good distraction from the chaos.

"You look handsome, Ben," Miranda said softly, her voice filled with warmth as she smoothed down his jacket. "You're going to do great up there."

Ben smiled gratefully at her, his heart swelling with love for his wife. Miranda reached out, taking his hand in hers and squeezing it gently. "You've already proven yourself to be a hero, Ben. This award is just a recognition of that."

Ben nodded, the weight of her words sinking in. "I know, but... it still feels strange to be honored for something that ended in tragedy."

She nodded and gave him a sympathetic look "I know it's hard. But remember, you did everything you could to save that man. You risked your own life to help others, and that's something to be proud of"

"I'm doing this for 19" He nodded " As chief said it would be disrespectful not to accept it"

"And everyone gets to see how brave and handsome my husband is" She smiled at him

"You look lovely as well" He admired his wife " That color suits you"

"Ben Warren the way you are staring at me is going to make us late to the ball" She blushed " But thank you"

"I wouldn't mind being late" He chuckled

"Oh no sir, you are going to that ball. We're going to take pictures. You're getting the award. More pictures, and then we're airport-bound"

"I feel like we have time" He pulled her closer to him using his good hand causing her to laugh and place her hands on his chest.

Ben couldn't resist the urge to kiss her. Their lips met in a sweet and sensual kiss, their tongues tangling and dancing together. Ben's hands roamed freely over Miranda's body, sending shivers down her spine. She moaned softly as he traced his lips down her jawline and onto her neck, leaving a trail of hot kisses behind.

Miranda's hands ran across Ben's head pulling him closer to her. She loved the way he tasted, and she couldn't get enough of him. He nibbled and sucked on her bottom lip, eliciting a soft moan from her. She arched her back, pressing her body closer to his.

As their kiss deepened, Ben got caught up in the moment feeling a familiar tightness in his pants. He pushed Miranda onto the bed and continued to shower her with kisses.