Debra spun around, startled, only to be pulled into a strong embrace. At first, she struggled, but then the familiar scent of tobo enveloped her. It was unmistakably Marion.


    Even though he had quit smoking, he still carried that scent.


    "Marion..." her voice broke, and her eyes brimmed with tears.


    For the past week, she had faced Drake alone, fought for her life in Orkgate, and dealt with danger all by herself. Yet, she hadn''t felt any sense of grievance until now, being held in Marion''s arms. She had been haunted by fear of not being able to see him again.


    "I''m here," Marion''s voice was hoarse.


    He tried to keep his emotions under control, but seeing Debra standing there in front of him, safe and sound, he couldn''t help but tremble. He had almost lost her this time.


    The moment he heard she had been kidnapped during the engagement party, his fear had been overwhelming.


    Over the years, he had grown used to the constant threat of death. He thought there was nothing left in this world to fear until Debra came into his life.


    The maid, sensing the intimate moment, quietly slipped out and closed the door behind her.


    Debra rested her head against Marion''s chest, whispering, "How long are you nning to hold me?"


    "Not long enough," Marion murmured. "A lifetime wouldn''t be long enough."


    "Stop joking." Debra yfully punched his chest and pulled away just enough to see his face.


    She had thought she was the only one suffering in Orkgate, but from the look of him, Marion must have been just as tormented, spending all his energy trying to get her back.


    "Look at you. You''re a mess." She reached up, brushing her fingers- over his stubbled chin. "Who would believe this scruffy guy is the fearsome Mr. Houston?" N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Marion grinned, taking her hand. "There are are rumors I have three


    swnove!


    heads and six arms. But now, with this look, I''m just about right


    Debra red yfully at him. "Nonsense. Sit down. I''ll shave you."


    "Alright." He obediently settled himself, cing his head in herp as she carefully shaved his face.


    She joked, "You know, this is dangerous. Aren''t you worried I might give you the closest shave of your life? Marion smiled, his eyes soft. "I''m at your mercy."


    With that, all the tension in his body finally eased. For the first time in days, he felt peace.


    Soon, Debra finished shaving his beard. She put down the razor and said, "Done."


    Marion opened his eyes, greeted by Debra''s soft smile. He sat up, pulled her into his arms, and kissed her gently. Debra blushed. "I haven''t even bathed yet."


    Marion croaked, "I''ll help you with that."


    The bathroom was now thick with steam, and he gently lowered Debra from his embrace into the tub.


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