As the dinner wrapped up, Helen yawned deeply. “I think I’ll head to bed early tonight,” she said, her voice already drowsy.

John nodded, suppressing his inner turmoil. “Of course, love. You deserve a good rest.”

He helped her to bed, waiting until her breathing had deepened into the steady rhythm of sleep before quietly slipping out of the house. The thrill of the night ahead pushed aside any lingering doubts as he drove into the dark, his thoughts consumed by the illicit romance awaiting him.