Sweetheart Series I: The Politician's Wife

Chapter XIV

Chapter XIV
One Step Closer

-RICHARD-

I was trying to keep myself calm as my wife leaned against me. The gala had been a whirlwind of excitement, and we could easily excuse ourselves and head home, but Kassie insisted we stay. My mother had mentioned how good it would be for publicity, and I could see Kassie's eagerness to make a good impression.

"Do you want to go home?" I asked her quietly, gauging her mood. She shook her head, a soft smile gracing her lips.

"We should stay for a little while longer..." she replied, her voice light. "...let's wait for someone else to go home first." She chuckled, and I couldn't help but smile back at her. There was something undeniably charming about her determination.

As the evening progressed, a mini-auction kicked off. Beautiful pieces of jewelry, stunning paintings, and even vintage cars were up for grabs. Kassie sat up, her attention captured by the bidders, her eyes sparkling with fascination. I couldn't help but steal glances at our intertwined hands, still holding on to each other, feeling the warmth and connection between us.

Most of the bidders were business tycoons, and even I had to admit, they looked impressive. A pang of envy shot through me; I wanted to show her that I could hold my own among them.

"Should we bid for the next item?" I asked, an idea forming in my mind. Kassie looked at me with a mix of curiosity and hesitation.

"All the money earned goes to the foundation, so it'll be like getting something in return for our donation," I explained, hoping to convince her.

"Maybe we should..." she replied with a smile. "...then it would be my first time participating in an auction." Her excitement was infectious, and I felt a surge of pride.

The auction went remarkably well. Kassie and I managed to place the highest bid on a stunning set of Venetian porcelain vases. I felt a sense of accomplishment as we secured the win, knowing it would contribute to a good cause.

Soon, the guests began to say their goodbyes to the host, and we decided it was our cue to leave as well. By the time we arrived home, exhaustion settled over us like a thick blanket.

I flopped onto the bed, feeling the softness envelop me instantly. Kassie chuckled at my silliness as she began removing her jewelry. I lay there, completely drained but content, taking in the sight of her as she brushed her hair and wiped away her makeup.

After a moment, she walked over to me, her delicate hands helping to remove my shoes. I couldn't help but admire her as she climbed onto the bed and sat beside me, unbuttoning my vest and peeling off my coat.

"You're staring at me, my wife?" I teased, keeping my eyes closed but feeling the warmth of her gaze.

"Why would I?" she replied, a playful denial that made me smile.

I opened my eyes and caught her gaze. "Do you not find me handsome?" I pouted, trying to playfully press her buttons. "Am I not as cool as the other bidders?"

I could tell the liquor had made me a bit more childlike, and I enjoyed the lightheartedness of it.

"It's so unfair..." I pouted dramatically, sitting up and wrapping my arms around her waist, pulling her close.

As she tumbled onto me, my heart raced, the distance between our lips mere centimeters apart. The proximity sent a rush of adrenaline through me.

Kassie's breath hitched, and I could see the flicker of uncertainty in her eyes. But the inviting look in my gaze must have reassured her, because just then, I leaned in, closing the gap between us and kissing her passionately.