The following day, Alyzs was jolted awake by the shrill ring of her phone's alarm. The room was still dark, the curtains drawn tight against the early morning light. She reached over to silence the annoying sound, her hand landing on the cool, empty space where Roman usually lay. A pang of disappointment shot through her as she realized he had already left. Rolling over, she spotted a note on the nightstand, his handwriting bold and masculine. "Morning, love. Don't forget your vitamins. I've left your favorite breakfast on the kitchen counter. I'll be thinking of you all day. R."Her heart fluttered at the sweetness of the gesture. She sat up, her hand moving to her still-flat stomach, a smile playing on her lips. The baby was their little secret, a bond that grew stronger daily. Despite the early hour, she felt a warmth spread through her, filling her with energy.Padding into the kitchen, she found a plate of eggs benedict with a side of fresh berries and a glass of orange juice waiting for her. The aroma of the perfectly poached eggs and hollandaise sauce was heavenly, and she couldn't resist digging in. As she ate, she thought about the day ahead. She had a meeting with the head of marketing at Dubois to discuss the new campaign for the spring collection.The elevator ride to the office felt different today. Her secret with Roman was a delicious thrill, a secret shared between them alone. The usual banter with her colleagues was tinged with excitement, knowing she was carrying his child. She sat at her desk, sipping her coffee, and couldn't help but wonder if anyone could see the glow on her face, the way her heart sang at the thought of their little family.The day flew by in a blur of emails and meetings, but every time she felt overwhelmed, she thought of Roman's reassuring words and the gentle way he had held her the night before. When the clock finally struck five, she couldn't wait to get home to him. She grabbed her bag and hurried out of the office, her steps lighter than they had been in weeks.When she arrived, the penthouse was quiet; the only sound was the faint hum of the city outside. She kicked off her heels and went to the living room, where she found a bouquet of roses and another note: "I know you're going to kill it today. I can't wait to hear all about it. I'll be home soon. Love, Roman." Alyzs felt her heart swell with love for this man who had turned her world upside down in the best possible way.Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the door opening. Roman walked in, his eyes lighting up when he saw her. He dropped his briefcase and crossed the room in two strides, pulling her into his arms. "How was your day?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine concern."It was good," she said, her voice muffled against his chest. "But I missed you."He chuckled and kissed the top of her head. "I missed you too," he murmured. "But I have a surprise for you."Her eyes widened as he led her to the bedroom, where a romantic dinner for two was laid on the bed. "You didn't have to do this," she protested, but her voice was lost in his kiss."But I wanted to," he said, his voice husky. "I want to take care of you, Alyzs. Always."They sat cross-legged on the bed, sharing stories of their day as they fed each other bites of steak. He had wine, and she sipped ginger ale. In these moments, the quiet ones where they were just Alyzs and Roman, she felt the most alive. The tension between them was palpable, the air charged with the promise of passion.After dinner, they lounged on the bed, their limbs entwined. Roman's hand found her belly again, his eyes filled with wonder. "I can't believe it," he said, his voice filled with awe. "You're growing our baby boy," he said with a big goofy grin. "It's a girl," Alyzs corrected."Nah, he came to me in my dream already; it's a son." Alyzs yawned.Roman chuckled, his thumb circling her belly button. "Okay, we'll call him Little Roman," he said, a playful glint in his eye.Alyzs rolled her eyes but couldn't help the smile that tugged at her lips. "Whatever you say, Daddy," she teased, her voice filled with love.The moment grew serious as Roman leaned in, his eyes searching hers. "I've been thinking," he began, his voice low. "We should tell my mother."Her heart skipped a beat. The thought of telling the woman who had raised him filled her with a mix of excitement and dread. "Are you sure?" she asked, her voice tentative.He nodded, his eyes never leaving hers. "I want her to be a part of this," he said firmly. "I want her to know how happy you make me."Alyzs felt a warmth spread through her at his words. "Okay," she said, her voice soft. "We'll tell her together." "Good, I'll fly her this weekend," Roman said. "Would you like Tawny to be here as well, baby? We can fly her in from Saint Lucia."Roman's hand slid up her thigh, his touch featherlight. "Mm, that sounds perfect," she murmured, leaning into him. He stood up, his body a testament to his dedication to fitness. He reached for her hand, helping her to her feet. "Let's get you out of these clothes," he said, his eyes dark with desire.Her heart raced as he unzipped her dress, the fabric falling away to reveal her naked body. She stepped out of the fabric pool, her skin glowing in the room's soft light. Roman pulled her close, his body pressing against hers. He kissed her forehead, his lips moving to her cheeks, her nose, and finally, her mouth. His kiss was tender, filled with love and longing.He picked her up, carrying her to the bed. The sheets were cool against her skin as he laid her down, his mouth moving to her neck. He kissed her collarbone, his teeth grazing her sensitive flesh. She shivered with pleasure, her body responding to his touch. His hands moved to her breasts, his thumbs brushing over her nipples until they were hard and sensitive.Their passion grew, their bodies moving together in a dance as old as time. Roman's kisses grew more insistent, his hands more demanding. Alyzs moaned, her body arching into his. He slid into her, filling her completely. Their lovemaking was slow and deep, a silent declaration of their love.Their eyes met, and she could see the same love reflected in his gaze. They moved together, their breath mingling in the quiet room. The tension built, their bodies straining for release. "I love you," Roman whispered, his voice raw with emotion."I love you too," she said, her voice trembling. And with those words, she came apart in his arms, her body shaking with the intensity of her orgasm. He followed her over the edge, his release filling her with warmth.They lay there, their bodies entwined for a while, their hearts beating as one. "Thank you," she murmured, her voice thick with emotion. "For what?" he asked, his voice sleepy. "For making me so happy," she said, her eyes filling with tears. "You do the same for me," he said, his voice serious. "Every single day."Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of Roman's phone buzzing. He groaned and reached for it, his eyes scanning the screen. "It's Monique," he said, his voice tense. "What does she want?" Alyzs asked, her voice filled with concern."It's about the Cover shoot for Art vs. Art. It's scheduled at 7 AM." So you need your beauty rest," Roman said softly. Alyzs nodded, feeling the weight of his words. Reaching for his phone, he silenced the call and texted her instead."Everything okay?" Alyzs asked, snuggling closer to him. "Yeah, just work stuff," he replied, his arms tightening around her. "But we'll deal with it tomorrow."They lay there for a few more moments, their breathing syncing up as they drifted towards sleep.The following morning, Roman's warm hand slid down her leg, his fingers dancing along her calf before reaching her foot. He gently rubbed the arch, his touch soothing the tension that had built up from the previous day's heels. Alyzs stirred, her eyes fluttering open to find Roman already dressed in his usual sharp attire, a mischievous smile playing on his lips as he focused on her toes. He leaned in and placed a soft kiss on the tip of her big toe, his eyes watching for her reaction. She giggled, the sensation tickling her."Good morning, baby," he murmured, his breath warm against her skin. "I brought you some breakfast in bed." He placed a tray laden with her favorite avocado toast, berries, and a steaming cup of tea on the bedside table. She sat up, the covers pooling around her waist, her nakedness not lost on him."Thank you, sir," she said with a playful smile, reaching for a piece of toast.He continued to kiss her toes, his tongue darting out to trace the arch of her foot. She moaned, the sensation sending a jolt of pleasure up her leg. "I know how much you love your morning toast," he said, his voice a low rumble. "But my taste buds are craving something a bit more-- warm this morning, Mrs Dubois." His hand slid up her leg, his fingers brushing against her inner thigh.Her eyes went wide, and she set the toast aside, her body already responding to his touch. Roman's kisses grew more insistent, moving up to her ankle, then her calf, each kiss leaving a trail of fire in its wake. She leaned back into the pillows, her breath hitching as his mouth reached the juncture of her thighs.Their morning ritual had just taken an unexpected, delightful turn. Roman's kisses grew more fervent, his tongue exploring the sensitive skin of her inner thighs. Alyzs' legs fell open, granting him access to her sweetness. He took his time, savoring every inch of her body, his love and desire for her evident in every touch.Her moans grew louder, her body trembling as he reached her core. He kissed her clit softly, then took it between his lips, giving it a gentle tug. Alyzs' back arched, her hand reaching out to grip the bedsheets. "Roman," she gasped, her voice filled with pleasure. "I'm a big tease, aren't I, Alyzs"He looked up at her, his eyes dark with lust. "You're perfect," she whispered, her voice barely above a moan. He chuckled, the vibration against her skin sending another wave of pleasure through her. He kissed her clit again, this time with more pressure, his tongue swirling around the sensitive nub. She felt her orgasm building, her body tightening around him.Just as she was about to climax, he stopped, his eyes meeting hers. "Please," she begged, her voice desperate. He gave her a wicked smile before moving up her body, his kisses leaving a trail of fire. "You have to get showered, love," he whispered into her lips. "We have to be at the shoot in fifty minutes."Her heart raced, but she knew he was right. They had to get ready. With a sigh, she pushed him away gently and swung her legs over the side of the bed. Roman stood up, his eyes never leaving hers, and he offered his hand to help her up. "Thank you," she murmured, feeling a strange mix of disappointment and anticipation.They walked into the bathroom, the tiles cold under her feet. Roman turned on the shower, the water cascading down in a warm embrace. He helped her step in, his hands on her waist as she adjusted to the temperature. "I'll be quick," she promised, reaching for the body wash. "okay, love, your clothes are ready on the dressing table" he slapped her wet ass and smirked as she squealed, "Roman!"The water felt heavenly on her skin, washing away the tension of the day before. She quickly lathered herself, the scent of jasmine filling the steamy room. Roman stood in the thresh hold, listening to her sing in the shower, singing Hero by Mariah Carey. She sang beautifully, her voice carrying through the mist. Moments like these, she reminded him why he had fallen in love with her. Her strength, passion, and ability to find joy in the simplest things.As she stepped out of the shower, Roman handed her a towel, his eyes lingering on her damp skin. "You're going to be late," he said, his voice a low growl. She rolled her eyes, took the towel, and wrapped it around her body. "I'll be ready in ten," she promised.In the bedroom, she found her outfit laid out for the cover shoot: a form-fitting Turquoise dress that hugged her curves in all the right places, with her signature silk scarf and a pair of printed strappy Giussepe Zanotti heels that made her legs look endless. She slipped the dress over her head, the fabric caressing her skin. The shoes were a bit tight, but she knew they'd look amazing on camera.Roman watched her from the doorway, his eyes lingering on her body. "You look stunning," he said, his voice thick with desire. She shot him a look, a smirk playing on her lips. "Save it for later," she teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief. Alyzs finger-picked her curly afro. They would do her makeup at the shoot.The drive to the studio was a blur of traffic and city lights. Roman held her hand, his thumb tracing circles on the back of her hand. They talked about their day, the upcoming winter solstice show, and their plans for the weekend. Despite the chaos of their lives, these moments of normalcy grounded them. Alyzs felt a warmth in her chest that she hadn't felt in a long time.As they arrived at the studio, the photographer, a renowned artist named Thierry, greeted them with a kiss on each cheek. His eyes swept over Alyzs, taking in her outfit with an approving nod. "Mademoiselle Dubois, you are a vision," he said in a thick French accent. "We are going to create something exceptional today."The studio was a whirlwind of activity. Makeup artists and stylists swarmed around her, each adding their touch to the vision. Roman hovered nearby, his presence a silent promise of support. Alyzs felt like a queen being prepped for her royal portrait, and she couldn't help but feel a thrill at the thought of gracing the cover of Art vs. Art.Finally, it was time. The lights were hot, the flashes blinding, but she remained composed. Roman sat in the director's chair, watching intently as she moved, his eyes never leaving hers. With each pose, she felt more powerful, more in control. This was her world, and she owned it. Thierry told Roman to join his wife for the cover photo.He strode over, taking his place beside her. His hand rested on her hip, his touch a silent declaration of his love. Roman's years of experience in front of the camera always come alive when he sees a flash."Perfect," Thierry called out, his camera clicking away. "Now, Alyzs, give me that fierce look. Show me the woman who will take the fashion world by storm."Her eyes narrowed, her lips curving into a seductive smile. She felt Roman's hand tighten on her hip, and his love and belief in her gave her the confidence she needed. The camera continued to click, capturing the essence of their love and partnership.The rest of the shoot was a blur of lights, flashes, and outfit changes. Roman whispered sweet nothings in her ear between takes, keeping her spirits high. They laughed and joked, their chemistry palpable. The tension between them grew with every shared glance, every brush of their skin.As the last shot was taken, Alyzs felt a sense of relief and excitement. She had done it; she had faced the fashion world with Roman by her side and come out on top. They had shared something unique that no one could ever take away from them.Thierry clapped his hands, a broad smile on his face. "Merci beaucoup, Roman and Alyzs," he said, his French accent rolling off his tongue like silk. "You two are truly a dynamic duo. The chemistry between you is...electric."They said their goodbyes, promising to catch up at the winter solstice show. As they left the studio, the chilly air outside was a stark contrast to the heat of the studio lights. Roman wrapped his arm around her, his touch reassuring. "Ready for the next adventure?" he asked, his eyes gleaming."Always," she replied, her voice filled with excitement. They climbed into the back of the car, the leather seats cool against their skin. The drive to the Dubois Studio was quiet; both were lost in their thoughts about what was to come. They were about a block from the studio when another car ran the light at the intersection, slamming into theirs.The world spun around them, and the sound of shattering glass and crunching metal filled the air. Alyzs's heart raced as Roman's arms tightened around her, shielding her from the impact. Time seemed to stand still as the car skidded to a halt, the smell of gasoline and fear permeating the air.Roman was the first to move when the dust settled, his eyes scanning Alyzs for any signs of injury. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice strained with concern. Alyzs was silent. "Alyzs! Alyzs!" Roman shouted as he frantically tried to unbuckle her seatbelt. Her eyes were closed, and her head was leaning against the window. Panic began to set in as he realized that she wasn't responding. "Fuck!" he roared, his voice echoing in the destroyed vehicle.He managed to free her from the seatbelt and cradled her in his arms. Blood trickled down her forehead, and she groaned softly, her eyes fluttering open. "Alyzs," he whispered, his voice tight with fear. "Can you hear me?"Her eyes focused on him, and she nodded slightly. "Yeah," she murmured, her voice shaky, as she started jerking in Romans's arms, seizing."Baby, no," Roman's voice was thick with fear as he held her tight, trying to keep her still. The world outside the car was a blur of chaos, but all he could see was her, his mind racing with panic. "I have to get you to a hospital," he said, with his voice cracking.