Millionaire Marriage

New Beginnings

Chapter 7

The first morning as a married couple dawned with the soft golden light filtering through the sheer curtains of Ava and Ethan's bedroom. Ava stirred, the faint scent of fresh coffee wafting through the air and pulling her from the remnants of sleep. She blinked a few times, letting the blissful reality of her new life wash over her. Married. It felt surreal, yet so right.

Rolling over, she found Ethan sprawled out beside her, a peaceful look on his face, his tousled hair framing his features. She smiled, feeling warmth spread through her chest. Ava had dreamed of this day for so long, and now that it was here, it felt more magical than she could have imagined.

Unable to resist, Ava leaned in and pressed a soft kiss on his lips. Ethan stirred, his eyes fluttering open, and a sleepy smile spread across his face. "Good morning, Mrs. Sinclair," he said, his voice gravelly from sleep.

"Good morning, Mr. Sinclair," Ava replied, grinning as she tucked a lock of hair behind her ear.

Ethan sat up, stretching his arms above his head, his muscles flexing under his fitted T-shirt. "What's the plan for today?" he asked, glancing at the clock on the nightstand.

"Honestly? I just want to enjoy some time with you," Ava replied, her heart racing at the thought of spending the day together. "Maybe we could go for a walk in the park, have brunch somewhere nice?"

"That sounds perfect," Ethan said, his expression brightening. "Let's make it a day just for us."

After sharing a quick breakfast, they got dressed and headed out into the warm morning sun. The city felt different today—more vibrant and alive. The air was filled with possibilities, and Ava found herself clutching Ethan's hand tightly as they strolled through the park, laughter bubbling between them.

They found a cozy café with outdoor seating and settled at a sun-drenched table. Over steaming cups of coffee and freshly baked pastries, they exchanged stories about their dreams and aspirations for the future.

"I want to travel more," Ethan confessed, his eyes lighting up with excitement. "There's so much of the world I want to explore with you. Paris, Italy, maybe even Japan."

Ava's heart soared at the thought. "I've always wanted to see the cherry blossoms in spring," she said, imagining herself in a picturesque park in Japan, holding hands with Ethan as they walked among the blooms.

As they talked, the conversation drifted to their careers. Ethan shared his plans to expand Sinclair Industries, while Ava expressed her desire to pursue her own design projects, something she had always put on the back burner during their relationship.

"I want to create something that's entirely my own," Ava said, her voice steady. "I've spent so long working on projects that someone else envisioned. It's time for me to chase my dreams."

Ethan's expression softened as he listened. "You should absolutely do that, Ava. You have so much talent. I believe in you."

Feeling a surge of motivation, Ava reached across the table, squeezing Ethan's hand. "I want you to be a part of it, though. I want to share everything with you."

"You will," he promised, his gaze earnest. "We're partners in this, remember?"

As they left the café, they wandered through the park, hand in hand, taking in the sights and sounds around them. Children played on swings, couples strolled with their arms around each other, and the laughter of friends echoed in the air. It was the perfect day, and Ava felt grateful for every moment.

Later, as they walked back toward their apartment, Ava spotted a small art gallery with colorful paintings displayed in the windows. "Can we go in there?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

"Of course!" Ethan replied, pulling her in.

The gallery was quaint and filled with local artwork. As they wandered through the different rooms, Ava admired the creativity on display, feeling inspired by the talent surrounding her.

"Look at this one," she said, pointing to a vibrant abstract painting that seemed to capture the essence of love and passion. "It's beautiful."

Ethan studied it for a moment before turning to her. "You know, I can see you creating something like this someday," he said, a proud smile on his face.

Ava felt a rush of warmth at his words, her mind racing with ideas. "Maybe I will. I just need to find the courage to start."

After a couple of hours at the gallery, they left with a newfound sense of purpose. The rest of the day unfolded with ease, and Ava felt as if they were living in a beautiful dream.

As evening approached, they returned to their apartment, which was now filled with wedding gifts and a few unpacked boxes. Ava took a deep breath, realizing they had a lot of work ahead of them to create their home together.

"Let's tackle this together," Ethan said, sensing her unease. "We can turn this place into something special."

"Yeah, together," Ava echoed, feeling reassured by his presence.

They spent the evening unpacking and rearranging furniture, their laughter echoing off the walls as they bickered playfully about decor choices. Ethan insisted on a sleek modern style while Ava leaned toward warm and cozy.

"I can compromise," she said with a grin. "How about we mix the two styles? Modern elegance with cozy touches?"

Ethan raised an eyebrow. "You're brilliant. I love it!"

As they worked side by side, Ava felt a sense of unity wash over her. This was more than just decorating a home; it was about building a life together.

Later that night, they collapsed onto the couch, exhausted but happy. Ethan wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. "You know, I wouldn't want to do this with anyone else," he murmured, kissing her forehead.

"Me neither," Ava replied softly, her heart swelling with love.

As they sat in comfortable silence, the reality of their marriage settled in. They were partners, ready to face the world together, and no matter what challenges lay ahead, Ava was determined to embrace this new beginning with Ethan by her side.