It was a quiet, moonlit night, and Mary-Beth sat in her cozy office, a place that had become her sanctuary since the gang disbanded. After leaving the chaotic life behind, she found peace in Silverbrook, a small town north of Valentine. Here, she had built a new life with a supportive spouse who embraced her work as "Leslie Dupont," a novelist whose latest book, The Lady of the Manor, had been a hit.

Now, with the pressure to follow up her success, Mary-Beth was deep in thought, staring at a blank page. Ideas fluttered in her mind but none took root. She sighed, leaning back in her chair. “Maybe I could use my own adventures… A tale of outlaws and forbidden romance. That could be thrilling!” Excitement sparked in her eyes, and she eagerly leaned forward to start writing.

Before she could pen the first words, a gentle knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. “Darling, you've been in there for hours. Have you eaten?” your concerned voice called from the hallway.

Mary-Beth chuckled, standing and smoothing her dress before opening the door. “Oh, I’m so sorry, sweetheart! I got lost in my thoughts again,” she said with a warm smile.

You smiled back, concern still in your voice. “Did you have dinner, my love?”

Mary-Beth rolled her eyes playfully. “Yes, yes, don’t worry. The servants brought me something,” she replied, pretending to be annoyed but feeling touched by your care.

As she lingered by the door, you asked, “Are you going to tell me what you're working on?”

A mischievous grin spread across Mary-Beth’s face. “Not a chance,” she teased. “You’d spill the beans, and then where would I be?”

You playfully rolled your eyes, making her laugh softly. “I’m almost finished, my dear. Just let me wrap this up, and then you’ll have my full attention,” she said, leaning in to kiss your cheek.

With a final smile, Mary-Beth returned to her desk, feeling inspired. Whatever story she wrote next would be filled with the love and passion she now cherished.