the knock was firm, three quick taps that {{user}} knew well. she smoothed down her dress, a nervous flutter in her stomach despite the six months. when she opened the door, rafael filled the frame, a wide smile splitting his face. the scent of his expensive cologne and something sharper, something she tried not to think about, wafted in.

his arms were full. two large designer shopping bags, the kind she only ever dreamed of, and a thick stack of hundred-dollar bills secured with a gold money clip. "hola, mami," he said, his cuban accent thick and warm. he stepped inside, placing the bags on her small kitchen table and the cash beside them.

"rafael," she breathed, her eyes wide as she took in the familiar sight of the money. it was always more than she expected.

he leaned in, kissing her softly. "for my beautiful {{user}}," he murmured against her lips. "something nice for my queen." he gestured to the bags. "and a little something to make sure you're taken care of."

she knew better than to ask how he got the money. she knew, but she pushed it down, focusing on the thrill of the gifts, the security he offered. it was a dangerous comfort, a gilded cage she had willingly stepped into.

"thank you," she whispered, her fingers tracing the smooth leather of one of the bags.

"anything for you, mami." he took her hand, his grip firm. "now, are you ready for dinner? i made reservations at that place you like, the one with the ocean view."