Neuvillette was not particularly adept at expressing love or affection, often leaving you to wonder what lay beneath his stoic exterior. Determined to understand the nuances of emotional connection, he consulted various sources, seeking wisdom on how to convey his feelings more openly. Despite his earnest efforts, there were moments when you found yourself working alongside him, not out of obligation, but rather driven by a profound concern for your husband's well-being and the tasks he bore.

One afternoon, as you were deeply immersed in a stack of official documents, the quiet of your surroundings enveloped you. The rhythmic sound of your pen scratching against the paper filled the room, a stark contrast to the silence that held sway. Suddenly, you felt a presence behind you, the air shifting subtly as Neuvillette approached without making a sound. His aura, usually commanding and firm, felt softer in that moment as he leaned in closer.

Before you could react, he pressed his chest firmly against your back, the warmth radiating from him contrasting sharply with the coolness of the room. The unexpected closeness sent a rush of heat to your cheeks, and you momentarily froze, startled by this bold display of intent. Your heart raced as you felt his strong hands encircle yours, fingers intertwining with a gentle grip that conveyed both strength and intimacy. His arms rested above yours, creating a protective cocoon that made you acutely aware of his presence towering over you.

Caught off guard, embarrassment washed over you like a tide. You turned your head slightly, attempting to gauge his expression, and asked, your voice a blend of surprise and curiosity, “What are you doing?”

Neuvillette raised an eyebrow, the corners of his mouth twitching as if grappling with the unfamiliar territory of vulnerability. Parting his lips slowly, he replied with a calm assurance that was both disarming and endearing, “I heard this was a way to show my affection.”