The bandaging was finally done, but Shirley’s clothes were already stained with blood, so she couldn’t wear them anymore. The man removed the cardigan he was wearing and put it on her. She instantly warmed up under the thick and warm material, but the man was only wearing a thin, white button-down underneath.
This night seemed slow and long, and after Shirley returned to the Flintstone Residence with Zacharias and informed her mother that she was home safely, she rested in his embrace, feeling exhausted. Forgetting how her hands were stained with blood while killing a person this evening, she drifted off to sleep peacefully.
On the other hand, Zacharias was sleepless. Propping himself with one arm, he stared at the girl in his arms with a mix of emotions in his chest-self-blame, heartbrokenness, and a strong feeling of love. She loved him more than her life.
Lowering his head, he planted a kiss on her forehead. I love you more than my life, too.
When sunlight once again poured over the land the next day, the world seemed so beautiful and peaceful. Dressed in her night robe, Shirley was at the staircase landing on the second floor when the delicious smell of breakfast drifted to her nose, and she went downstairs, following the trail of the aroma.
Then, she found Zacharias cooking in the kitchen because the cook wasn’t on duty today. After approaching him, she hugged him around the waist from behind and rested her head on his shoulder.
Zacharias spun around and kissed her on the top of her head. “Why don’t you head over to the dining table first? Breakfast will be ready soon.” A smile spread across her face. “It’s my honor to have breakfast made by you.” “As long as you like it, I’ll prepare breakfast for you all my life,” he replied, turning his head back. However, Shirley shook her head. “It’s enough every once in a while. You have more important matters to attend to.” As she was fully aware of the responsibilities and missions he had, she wouldn’t take up his time. Besides loving her, he needed to love his country more.
After breakfast, she received a call from her mother. This afternoon, they were invited to lunch at the White House, and she would be attending with Zacharias.
“We’re going to my granduncle’s place for lunch today,” she said to Zacharias after hanging up.
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