Shadow Of The Past | ✔️

67| "Thank you for maing my mom happy"

ACE

As I glanced over at Naomi, I couldn't help but smile at the peaceful expression on her sleeping face. She looked so serene, her features softened by the gentle embrace of sleep.

Minutes later, I pulled up to the house and parked the car, the quiet of the night enveloping us as I stepped out onto the driveway.

Moving swiftly, I made my way to the backseat to gently retrieve Amara from her slumber. Cradling her in my arms, I carried her inside, careful not to disturb her as I made my way up the stairs to her bedroom.

As I tucked Amara into bed, she stirred slightly, her eyes fluttering open. Her gaze met mine, filled with a mix of sleepiness and gratitude.

"Thank you, and thank you for making my mom happy," she murmured softly, her words touching my heart.

A warmth spread through me at her words, knowing that I had found a place in both Naomi and Amara's hearts. With a gentle smile, I leaned down to press a kiss to Amara's forehead before quietly slipping out of her room.

Making my way back downstairs, I felt a sense of purpose as I approached the car once more. With careful steps, I returned to Naomi's side, my heart pounding with anticipation as I lifted her gently into my arms, bridal style.

She nestled against me, her head resting against my chest as I cradled her close. I felt her warmth seep into me, her presence filling me with a sense of peace, belonging, and strength.

With steady strides, I carried Naomi upstairs to my room, the soft glow of the moonlight guiding our path.

__

NAOMI

As I slowly woke from my peaceful slumber, I heard Ace's voice calling out to me.

"We're home," he said, the warmth in his voice making my heart flutter with happiness.

The word "home" held a special meaning now, a symbol of the life we were building again together.

Ace gently set me down on the bed, his touch tender and caring. He knelt in front of me, his hands reaching for my heels. I watched him with a soft smile as he carefully removed them, his focused attention warming my heart.

"Stand up for me," Ace requested, and I complied, allowing him to unzip the back of my dress. His gentle touch sent a shiver of affection through me, reminding me of the depth of his love and care.

"I'll go run a bath for you. Get this off," Ace said, his voice filled with warmth and consideration.

I nodded, feeling grateful for his thoughtfulness. With a sense of relief, I slipped out of my dress, feeling the weight of the day lift off my shoulders. Wrapping a towel around myself, I made my way to the bathroom, where the sound of running water greeted me.

Entering the bathroom, I found Ace inside, a bath filled with bubbles prepared just for me. The sight filled me with a rush of gratitude and affection for the man who always knew how to make me feel cherished.

"Thank you," I said softly, my voice filled with appreciation as I stepped into the warm, inviting water.

Ace smiled warmly, his eyes filled with love and tenderness. "You deserve it after today. Go relax," he replied, his voice a soothing balm to my tired soul.

As I settled into the comforting embrace of the bath, I closed my eyes, allowing the warmth to wash away the remnants of fatigue from the day.

_

After luxuriating in the warm bath, I emerged feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. As I stepped out, I found fresh clothes neatly laid out on the sink counter, a thoughtful gesture from Ace. I quickly slipped into the comfortable attire, feeling a sense of ease wash over me.

Making my way back to the bedroom, I found Ace sitting on the bed, his back against the headboard, absorbed in his work on a laptop. His dedication and focus were evident, and I couldn't help but admire his diligence.

Ace glanced up as I entered the room, his eyes meeting mine with a soft smile.

"Thank you," I murmured.

He closed his laptop, setting it aside to give me his full attention. I climbed into bed beside him, the warmth of his presence a welcome comfort.

I lay nestled against Ace's bare chest, his comforting embrace enveloping me, a moment of quiet intimacy passed between us. His hand gently cradled me while the other rested behind his head, his touch a reassuring presence.

After a few moments of silence, Ace's voice broke through the tranquility. "Remember when you asked me why I had left?" he began, his tone soft yet laden with significance.

I looked up to meet his eyes, my curiosity piqued. "Yeah," I replied, my gaze searching his face for answers.

Ace took a deep breath, his expression shifting as he began to share a part of his past that had remained untold until now.

As Ace revealed the truth behind his departure all those years ago, my heart sank. The weight of his words settled over me, and a wave of understanding washed over me. I realized that Ace had faced an impossible decision, torn between protecting us and succumbing to the demands of a dangerous adversary.

Tears welled up in my eyes as I processed the magnitude of Ace's sacrifice. For so long, I had carried the weight of his absence, wondering if I had been the reason for his departure. Now, hearing the truth, I realized that Xavier had been the true cause of our separation.

A mix of emotions swirled within me – sadness, empathy, and profound gratitude for Ace's unwavering love and dedication.

"I'm so sorry, Ace," I whispered, my voice trembling with emotion. "I had no idea. Shit, I was blaming you for everything and I thought you were the-" he cuts me of.

Ace's eyes met mine, his expression filled with tenderness and understanding. "It's okay, Naomi, dont beat yourself about it," he reassured me, his touch gentle against my cheek. "I just wanted to protect you and Amara."