Chapter 106

Oliver smiled and extended an arm, inviting Grace to rest her head on it. He drew her close, tucking the blanket around them before pulling her even tighter. "How about a kiss in return?" he murmured. Nestled in his embrace, Grace shook her head and shyly burrowed deeper into the covers. Oliver lifted her slightly, allowing her to rest her face on his chest. "Our relationship is quite unconventional, wouldn't you say?" Grace remarked. Oliver chuckled, the sound echoing in the quiet room. "There was a time," he began, "when marriages were arranged. Couples exchanged vows without ever seeing each other's faces. Imagine, only learning what your spouse looked like on your wedding night! Yet, somehow, they managed to have quite a few children." "But that was then," Grace countered softly, "this is the modern era." "Perhaps my outlook is a bit more traditional," he replied. Grace was unsure. Was he sincere? His warm and comforting embrace subconsciously drew her closer. Gathering her