Elise frowned deeply.

What could possibly be uncertain about this? William didn't resist and handed the two shopping bags to her.

As she took them, she immediately had to set them down on the floor.

She hadn't anticipated their weight. Lifting them without any mental preparation was impossible. She had watched William carry them with such effortless ease...

"Ms. Scott, still determined to put on a brave front?" William inquired, a hint of amusement in his voice.

Elise pressed her lips together. She hadn't consciously bought that many items while shopping, yet the evidence was undeniably heavy in front of her.

William decided not to push the issue further.

He simply retrieved the two bags from her and strode ahead.

After a brief hesitation, Elise took James's small hand and followed him into the apartment.

Once inside, Elise began unpacking the groceries. It was then she discovered the box of condoms.

She glanced toward the living room where William was seated with James, both engrossed in a cartoon. How was she supposed to hand these over to him?

"Do you require assistance?" William turned his head, his gaze meeting hers.

It was uncanny, as if he possessed a sixth sense for her thoughts, no matter the situation.

Elise gave a slight nod.

William rose from the couch and walked over to her.

Elise promptly held out the box to him.

William's eyes dropped to the item in her hand.

"I thought you preferred this brand?" Elise averted her gaze, feeling a flush of heat on her cheeks.

"I have no use for them."

"Neither do I."

His response was blunt and direct.

Elise looked at him, comprehension dawning instantly.

William and Victoria probably didn't need them either.

They weren't getting any younger. Starting a family was likely part of their marital plans.

"I'll dispose of them, then," Elise said, moving to toss the box into the nearby trash bin.

"Leave them. One never knows when they might come in handy." William suddenly reached out and took the box from her grasp.

Elise's brow furrowed in confusion.

William pocketed the box and walked away without another word. Elise didn't press the matter. They were free, after all. He could do whatever he pleased with them.

After finishing the unpacking, Elise moved to the kitchen to start dinner preparations.

Just as she was deciding on a menu, William entered the kitchen again.

"I can manage on my own..."

"It's almost eight. Jamie is hungry," William stated flatly.

Elise glanced at the clock. He was right.

"It will be quicker if I cook," William suggested. "You can observe. Your skills might improve faster that way."

Elise took a quiet, steadying breath and nodded in agreement.

In her open-plan kitchen, Elise became William's sous-chef.

William patiently explained each step of the cooking process as he worked.

They moved together with a surprising, seamless rhythm.

Before long, three flavorful dishes and a steaming bowl of soup adorned the dining table.

William took a seat and began eating without any ceremony.

"Mommy, this food you made is amazing," James chirped, eager to compliment his mother.

Before Elise could respond, William spoke. "Then eat plenty. Don't let your mother's hard work be for nothing."

"I'm going to have two whole big bowls!" James declared proudly.

A profound warmth spread through Elise's chest.

No matter how cold or distant the outside world seemed, with James in her life, every single day felt like a radiant, hopeful spring morning.