CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED: PEACE AND LOVE

Ariana woke up to the soft rays of morning sunlight filtering through the sheer curtains of their Parisian apartment. The city’s ambient sounds—the distant hum of traffic, the occasional chirping of birds—seemed to harmonize with her contentment. She stretched luxuriously, her limbs feeling relaxed and at ease. As she padded barefoot into the kitchen, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee greeted her, courtesy of Jonathan, who was already preparing breakfast. The sight of him standing at the stove, a look of concentration on his face as he flipped pancakes with practiced ease, filled Ariana with warmth. “Good morning, love,” Jonathan greeted her with a smile, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “Good morning,” Ariana replied softly, wrapping her arms around him from behind, resting her head on his shoulder. “Thank you for breakfast.” Jonathan turned to kiss her cheek, his touch gentle yet reassuring. “Anything for you,” he murmured, his voice filled with affection. They shared a quiet