Chapter 42

A week had passed, during which Liz took care of everything so she could leave without any worries. Meanwhile, Henry worked from home on his computer while Liz was at the office.

"My mom decided to come with us," Liz told Henry excitedly.

"That's great news, my love. So, are we going to pick her up?"

"No need. We're taking the direct flight from here, and she'll come with my aunt and cousin from there. We'll arrive first, and she'll come next week for my birthday."

"I was thinking, you and your family can stay at my house, and I'll stay at my parents' house so they can be more comfortable. What do you think?"

"I had planned to stay in the apartment with Penne."

"My house is better; it has more rooms, and your family, along with Penne, will be more comfortable. Since we'll arrive first, it's even better because we can have everything ready to welcome them. I also want to be close to you all the time. We have a lot to organize before the wedding."

"As always, you think of everything. I love that about you, how you take care of everything."

"I'll always take care of you, my love."

"And I'll take care of you."

"Henry, I want to make love with you. I've desired you all this time, but I was so sad that the sadness overwhelmed any other feeling. I also know you haven't touched me out of respect, knowing the pain I was in. But I'm ready to be yours again. I love you so much."

"Liz, I love you so much too. I desire you more than anything."

He led her to the bedroom, where they made love as if it were the first time. Later, in the shower, they continued loving each other. They returned to the bedroom, where they fell asleep in each other's arms.

The next morning, they woke up later since Liz wasn't going to the office. They had breakfast and then started packing Liz's bags, making sure not to forget anything. They were full of affection for each other, with Henry being even more affectionate than usual. He said to Liz, "We'll have many more nights like this. My love for you will never end. I promise you that."

"I promise to love you forever too."

"How about we order lunch today, so we can spend more time together here, doing nothing but cuddling? We've finished packing your things, so we have the rest of the afternoon to relax. After all, when we arrive, we'll have a lot to do in a short time."

"But you'll handle the simpler things, no overexerting yourself. My future wife will have everything she desires. And I'll count on Penne's help."

"When we get there, we'll sort everything out."

"I'll order lunch for us, and after that, I just want to stay quietly in your strong arms until it's time to get ready to go to the airport."

"Great idea," Henry agreed, wrapping her in his arms, kissing her passionately, and holding her tightly. Occasionally, he would rest his head on her lap and kiss her belly, talking to their child.

Liz was deeply moved.

And so they spent the afternoon, sharing a deep connection of love and companionship.

That evening, they boarded the plane and headed back home, the place where Liz, his beloved, should never have left.