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Ransom Drysdale had always lived his life untethered, answering to no one. He was the golden child, the favored grandson, spoiled beyond reason. His arrogance grew unchecked until the day his world shifted. His grandfather, Harlan, revealed the news that left Ransom fuming: he had been arranged to marry the daughter of one of Harlan’s business partners, a move meant to merge their fortunes and expand the family empire. 
Ransom’s rage had been volcanic when he found out. “You can’t be serious,” he had spat, pacing Harlan’s study. “You think I’m just gonna roll over and let you play puppet master?”

Harlan had remained calm, barely looking up from his desk. “You’ll marry her, Ransom, or you’ll be erased from my will. I’ve indulged you for long enough. It’s time you learned what it means to be a part of this family.”

That was enough to shut Ransom up, though the resentment festered in his chest. He wasn’t about to lose his inheritance over something so trivial.

The day of the family meeting came, and Ransom wasn’t expecting much. He’d already resigned himself to the fact that this arrangement wasn’t about love or attraction, but he had at least hoped for a tall, slender blonde—someone easy on the eyes. But when he was introduced to (Y/N), he was visibly disappointed. She was fat, nothing like the women he was used to, and certainly not his type.

His disdain was clear as he shook her hand, unable to mask the dissatisfaction twisting his face. The formalities passed quickly, and before he could blink, they were married, trapped in an arrangement neither of them had asked for.

Back at his house on their first night, Ransom stood in the doorway of the guest room she’d claimed for herself. “Let’s get one thing straight,” he said coldly. “We’re never sleeping together. You’re free to do whatever you want, as long as you don’t bother me. This is just business.”

(Y/N) met his gaze with a calm, emotionless expression. “Fine by me,” she said quietly. “I just need you to be careful if you plan on being with other women. And never bring them home.”

Ransom blinked, slightly caught off guard by her indifference, but he nodded. It was better this way. She wouldn’t be a problem.

The months that followed were peaceful, in a way Ransom couldn’t have imagined. They lived like distant roommates, hardly interacting beyond the occasional passing in the hallway. She didn’t pry into his life, and he was more than happy to pretend she didn’t exist. He couldn’t complain. She was, at least, easy to ignore.

Until one day, he stumbled upon something unexpected.
Rummaging through the mail on the kitchen counter, Ransom found an elegant envelope addressed to (Y/N) Drysdale . His eyebrow quirked as he opened it, revealing an invitation to Paris Fashion Week from the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode . He froze.
She had mentioned she was going to Europe for work, but he hadn’t paid any attention. Now, this was different. Fashion Week was exclusive. Curious, he dug further and found four all-access passes tucked inside. His fingers tightened around the invitation as he stared at the names of the luxury brands listed: Dior, Schiaparelli, Prada.
 
“What the hell?” he muttered to himself.

Ransom quickly Googled the event and saw that Paris Fashion Week was starting tomorrow. Heart pounding with unexpected urgency, he scanned the barcode on the invitation, and an email immediately popped up with a detailed schedule of the week’s shows, locations, and private events.
His pulse raced. He barely knew her. How could (Y/N) , his quiet, indifferent wife, be connected to an event like this? 
Without a second thought, Ransom stormed upstairs, threw open his closet, and began packing his best outfits—tailored suits, designer shoes, everything he had that screamed wealth and style. After all, he was Ransom Drysdale. His appearance was always top-tier. He booked a private plane within the hour and arranged for a hotel close to the venue, his mind buzzing with questions. 
Sitting in his seat on the jet, his curiosity gnawed at him. He had to know who he was really married to. He typed (Y/N) (L/N) into Google, but nothing came up beyond her university information. Frustrated, he tried again, this time typing (Y/N) Drysdale
His eyes widened as the search results loaded.
Her name appeared alongside some of the biggest fashion agency in the world: Wilhelmina Models . Ransom clicked on the link, and there she was—a close-up of his wife, with physical descriptions.
“Are you kidding me?” Ransom muttered under his breath, staring at the images. He had completely underestimated her.

Leaning back in his seat, he furrowed his brow “She got some explaining to do”

____Ransom arrived in Paris, the city’s charm lost on him as he moved through the airport with purpose. He quickly checked into the best hotel just minutes away from the fashion events, his mind racing with the implications of what he’d uncovered about (Y/N).

As soon as he entered his luxurious suite, he wasted no time unpacking. He set about laying out his outfits for the upcoming events, meticulously choosing what would make the best impression. Each piece he selected screamed wealth and sophistication, reflecting his status as a Drysdale.

With his attire arranged, Ransom pulled out his phone and checked his email again. The sleek interface revealed that every event required registration to attend. His pulse quickened as he scanned through the schedules.

Dior was first on the list. Without hesitation, he registered himself for the event. And there were also Prada, Valentino, Saint Laurent, Gucci,  Schiaparelli , Miu Miu , Balenciaga, Vetements, Coperni.  Each day was packed with two different shows, and he was determined to attend every one of them.

With a sense of urgency, he laid out his outfit options for each event—sharp suits for Dior and Prada, a more avant-garde look for Schiaparelli, and classic elegance for Valentino. He wanted to stand out, to make it clear that he belonged in this world, alongside his wife.

Once satisfied with his preparations, Ransom grabbed his phone again, searching for information about what he needed to do upon arrival at the events. He needed to know where to go, who to talk to, and how to navigate this glamorous but intimidating world.

As he read through the details, a plan began to form in his mind. He would get to the bottom of (Y/N)’s secret life, and he wouldn’t leave Paris without answers.
 
____The next day, Ransom woke up with a mission. He grabbed his all-access pass and glanced in the mirror, feeling the weight of his own expectations. After hours of changing outfits at the last minute, he finally settled on a tailored suit that screamed sophistication, his intention to impress his wife hidden beneath the surface. Somehow, he was dressing to impress her without even realizing it.

As he stepped out of his hotel, he felt a rush of nervous energy—not about the event itself, but about uncovering who (Y/N) truly was. He had a car service waiting for him, a perk that came with his all-access pass, and he couldn’t shake the anticipation building in his chest.

Upon arriving at the first venue, he took a deep breath and approached one of the staff members. He presented his all-access pass, and after scanning the barcode, they immediately ushered him into the “VIP lane.” Ransom followed, his mind racing with questions about what lay ahead.

He entered a lavish lounge buzzing with important people mingling and networking. The atmosphere was electric, and he felt a strange mix of excitement and apprehension as he blended in, taking in the opulence surrounding him. Just as he was settling into the scene, a staff member asked for his name.

“Ransom Drysdale,” he replied, a hint of pride creeping into his voice.

The staff member’s eyes widened in surprise, and she quickly grabbed her intercom, relaying his name with urgency. “We are honored to have you here, Mr. Drysdale,” she announced, leaving him a bit taken aback. The tone of reverence in her voice felt surreal.

Moments later, another team approached him, introducing themselves as representatives of Dior. “Please, follow us immediately,” one said, gesturing for him to walk alongside them.

Ransom played along, curious about the sudden change in treatment. They escorted him to the front row, and his jaw nearly dropped as he took in the view. He had expected a spectacle, but this was beyond anything he had imagined. They treated him as if he were royalty, their reverence tangible.

As they settled him into his seat, they informed him, “We’re honored to finally meet you. Mrs. Drysdale is the inspiration for this season’s designs, and she will be appearing in the middle of the show. Feel free to use this ringer if you need any assistance; we’ll assist you immediately.”

Ransom blinked, stunned. He had come here to uncover the truth about his wife, and now he was sitting front row at a Dior show, surrounded by celebrities, designers, and photographers. The lavish decorations and the buzzing atmosphere filled him with awe, and he couldn’t help but feel a rush of excitement at the thought of seeing (Y/N) walk down the runway.
Ransom sat patiently in the front row, watching as the venue gradually filled with an eclectic mix of guests. To his surprise, Rami Malek settled in next to him, offering a friendly smile. On his other side was Jennifer Lawrence, and soon the three were engaged in conversation.As they chatted, Ransom casually mentioned his name, and both Jennifer and Rami's eyes lit up with recognition. “Do you know (Y/N) Drysdale?” Jennifer asked excitedly.With a sense of pride swelling in his chest, Ransom replied, “That’s my wife.”Their reactions were immediate and enthusiastic. “Oh my God, she’s amazing!” Jennifer exclaimed. “We worked together recently. She’s so sweet and talented.”Rami chimed in, nodding vigorously. “Absolutely. She’s got this natural talent that’s hard to come by. The way she carries herself—it's effortless.”Ransom felt a mixture of confusion and pride. He had no idea his wife was held in such high regard in the industry, but he played along, grateful for the praise that poured in from the two A-listers.Just then, the lights dimmed, and the show was about to begin. Ransom’s attention shifted to the runway as he settled in, but his mind was still racing with thoughts of (Y/N). He wanted to know more about her, the woman who had somehow kept her life a secret from him.As the first model walked out, Ransom was captivated by the artistry of the designs. He was lost in his own world as he watched models walked past through quickly. However, his focus quickly shifted when he spotted a familiar figure striding confidently down the runway—(Y/N).He couldn’t believe his eyes. The woman he had underestimated was now a vision of elegance, blending sporty sophistication with an urban edge. Her outfit highlighted her curves beautifully, metallic accents shimmering with every step she took. Delicate embroidery and butterfly motifs punctuated the otherwise stark palette, a perfect balance of strength and femininity.Ransom was mesmerized, his heart racing as he took in her every detail. He felt a swell of emotions—pride, admiration, and an undeniable connection to the woman he had so easily dismissed. As she moved, she commanded the attention of the entire room, and Ransom found himself unable to focus on anything else.Jennifer leaned over to whisper in his ear, “You’re so lucky to have her. She’s incredible!”But Ransom couldn’t hear her over the pounding in his chest. All he could think about was (Y/N), radiant and professional, pouring herself into her work. She didn’t notice him in the crowd; her focus was entirely on the show and the designs she brought to life. In that moment, Ransom was speechless. The woman he thought he knew had transformed before his eyes, revealing a depth and talent that left him utterly captivated. The way her soft body melted into sexy curves made his heart race, and he found himself filled with a sense of awe at the incredible woman he had married. 
Ransom continued to immerse himself in the whirlwind of Paris Fashion Week, moving from venue to venue, each day filled with excitement and awe as he watched his wife, (Y/N), showcase her remarkable talent. Today’s shows for Schiaparelli and Miu Miu were highly anticipated, and as usual, he was treated like a VIP, gaining insights from industry insiders who spoke glowingly about (Y/N)’s work.

The thrill of seeing her in a new outfit, each one more stunning than the last, filled him with pride. With every show, his mood brightened, and anticipation built inside him. After preparing himself with a meticulous outfit, Ransom set out, eager to see what his wife had created for this particular day.

As he entered the venue, he found himself seated next to Zendaya and Anna Wintour. Zendaya was friendly and inquisitive, asking for his name. Upon learning it, her eyes lit up. “Please don’t tell me you’re (Y/N)’s husband!” she exclaimed, a smile breaking across her face. “It’s so nice to finally meet the person behind her clothing line debut! She speaks so highly of you; it’s sweet that you’re the inspiration for her line.”
Anna Wintour chimed in, her tone warm yet authoritative. “Yes, beautifully curated! I must say, I don’t know how she came up with the name Knitted Arrangement for her first debut, but it surprisingly suits the collection. What a talented one she is.”
Ransom felt a rush of warmth at their praise, grateful that others recognized his wife’s brilliance. As they conversed, their attention shifted back to the runway, where (Y/N) was set to walk in the final show.

When she emerged, Ransom was entranced. The dress she wore was breathtaking—a stunning asymmetrical creation with an extended collar and a daring neckline slit at the back, entirely covered in shimmering silver sequins, crystals, and rhinestones. The exquisite details combined with a pair of black leather cowboy-inspired mules and signature “S” heels—a hallmark of designer Daniel Roseberry—created an unforgettable look.

(Y/N) walked confidently down the runway, embodying elegance and seduction. As she moved closer, their eyes met for an electrifying moment, and Ransom felt his heart race. She seemed to falter for a split second, almost losing her focus as he smiled at her. It was a subtle yet powerful connection, one that went unnoticed by the audience but sent a jolt of surprise through (Y/N).

As the show concluded, all the models came out together, and Daniel Roseberry joined (Y/N) at the front, holding her hand high in celebration. The applause resonated throughout the venue, and Ransom felt as though he was clapping the loudest, filled with pride for his wife’s incredible achievement.

As (Y/N) and Daniel walked backstage, Ransom couldn't help but blow kisses in her direction. The unexpected gesture caught (Y/N) off guard, her eyes widening in surprise. For a brief moment, the chaos of the fashion show melted away, and Ransom was reminded of the bond they were slowly beginning to forge amid the glamour and excitement of Paris.

___

Ransom found himself once again in the VIP section, seated in the front row, excitement coursing through him. Each time he arrived at a new venue, he relished the opportunity to hear others talk about (Y/N). It had become his ritual, soaking in the admiration for his wife while waiting in anticipation for her to take the stage.
 
But today was different. As the lights dimmed and the show began, his excitement quickly transformed into a storm of conflicting emotions. When (Y/N) finally stepped onto the runway, clad in an embroidered mini and midi evening dress that flaunted a rigidly cropped design with stringy edges, Ransom’s heart raced, but not with pride. Instead, an overwhelming wave of possessiveness washed over him. The outfit left little to the imagination, revealing her beautiful, healthy skin and curves in a way he had never seen before.
 
His initial admiration shifted as he felt something bubbling inside him, a primal instinct awakening. The decency that usually accompanied his thoughts evaporated, replaced by a fierce protectiveness. He wanted to growl at anyone who dared to look at her, as if they were trespassing on what belonged to him.
 
___

(Y/N) stood backstage, nerves fluttering in her stomach as she remembered when caught sight of Ransom in the front row. She hadn’t expected him to be there, and now her mind raced with questions. How did he get here? When did he arrive? Where has he been staying? The sudden awareness of his presence sent her heart into a frantic rhythm. Did he know she was a model? Had he been watching her?
 
She took a deep breath, trying to quell the rising anxiety. The outfit she wore—a daring ensemble showcasing her curves—had been designed to make a statement, but now, knowing Ransom was watching, her confidence wavered. What would he think?
 
As she prepared to step onto the runway, she felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. Ransom had never seen her show so much skin, and the thought made her shy. But with each step she took, she tried to channel her nerves into something powerful.
 
The moment she emerged, Ransom’s eyes locked onto her, a fierce possessiveness radiating from him. She felt a jolt of surprise at the intensity of his gaze. It was a look that ignited something within her, transforming her uncertainty into determination.
 
(Y/N) walked down the runway, her heart racing as she caught Ransom’s eyes again. The world around her faded, leaving just the two of them in that moment. She could see the pride and possessiveness swirling in his expression, and it only fueled her confidence.
 
She wanted him to see her—really see her—not just as his wife in an arranged marriage, but as a powerful woman owning her identity on the runway. With each stride, she felt herself embrace the beauty of her curves and the strength of her choices.

____
 
As the night fell and the afterparty buzzed with excitement, (Y/N)stood among the crowd, draped in a stunning designer dress, mingling with other guests. It was late, around 9 PM, and she hadn’t planned on inviting Ransom—but something inside her had sent him the link to the afterparty anyway. She wasn’t entirely sure why. Maybe it was reflex, or maybe it was something deeper she wasn’t ready to admit to herself.
 
She was mid-conversation when she sensed him. First, it was his familiar scent, then the warmth of his presence before his hand slid smoothly from her shoulder down her spine, finally resting on her waist. Her heart skipped a beat as his deep voice greeted her softly, “Hey, baby.”
  Baby! (Y/N)was caught off guard by the pet name. Ransom wasn’t the type to use terms like that. And yet, it stirred something inside her—something warm and good. Before she could even respond, he leaned down and placed a kiss on the top of her head, a gesture that sent a flutter of unexpected excitement through her. 
Ransom’s height loomed protectively over her, even with her in heels. She could feel the steady weight of his hand on her waist as she introduced him to the people around her. "This is my husband, Ransom," she said, each time feeling a new sense of satisfaction in those words. Strangely, it felt right, as though claiming him in this space, in her world, was something she'd been waiting to do all along.
 Throughout the night, the words came easily— my husband .And with every introduction, the tension she'd been carrying for so long began to melt away. There was something comforting, even thrilling, about him being here. Ransom was seeing her world up close, the one she had built, the one he was only now stepping into.  
For (Y/N), it was a relief she hadn’t realized she needed—to have Ransom by her side, not as a figure of their arrangement, but as her husband, truly sharing in the life she led. As the night went on, they moved through the crowd like a unit, his hand never leaving her waist, their connection undeniable. And for the first time in a long while, (Y/N) felt that maybe, just maybe, they weren’t so far apart after all.
 
Ransom escorted (Y/N) back to her hotel, the air thick with the lingering tension of the night. As they stood outside her door, she hesitated, biting her lip before shyly inviting him in. "Would you, uh, like to stay for a bit?" she asked, her voice softer than usual.
 
Ransom smirked, enjoying her nervousness. "Lead the way," he said, stepping inside as she unlocked the door.
 
Once inside, (Y/N) offered him a drink, which he gladly accepted. They settled in the seating area by the window, the lights of Paris casting a soft glow into the room, and in the distance, the Eiffel Tower shimmered. The silence was comfortable, but (Y/N) felt the need to break it, her thoughts swirling.
 
"You must have a thousand questions," she started, expecting Ransom to bombard her with them. But to her surprise, he only smiled, a genuine warmth in his eyes.
 
"Tell me, wife," he said, leaning forward slightly. "Tell me everything I need to know about my wife."
 
The eagerness in his voice took her aback. (Y/N) couldn’t help herself from asking, “Why now, Ransom Drysdale?”
 
Her frustration with the name slipped out before she could stop herself. "I really hate that. I prefer Hugh. People who call you Ransom either think they’re entitled snobs or...well, women who can’t control their hormones.” She groaned, bending down to take off her heels, clearly flustered.
 
Ransom chuckled softly, his gaze never leaving her. “You can call me whatever you like, baby,” he said, reaching out to help her with her shoes. His voice was teasing, but there was a softness in the way he held her foot, balancing her.
 
The word baby hit her again, making her pulse quicken. (Y/N) mumbled a quick thank you, trying to regain her composure. "Well, to start with...why the hell not?" Ransom continued, moving a bit closer. "People have been talking about you, praising you, and I had no idea what they were talking about. But I played along. Now, I want to know for myself."
 
He looked at her, a spark of curiosity in his eyes. "Yes, we've been married for seven months now—"
 
“Seven and a half,” (Y/N) muttered under her breath.
 
Ransom gave a small laugh. "Yes, thank you. I believe in one-time marriage, and I might be late to the party, but I hope to build a future together. I'm not asking you to love me  or be a doting wife, but can we at least be friends? This past runaways have been a wake up call for me"
 
Before he could finish, (Y/N)'seyes widened in surprise. "Past runways? Just how many events have you attended?" Her hand shot out to grab his arm, her reaction purely instinctual.
 
Ransom looked down at her hand, a slow smile spreading across his face. He brushed a loose strand of hair behind her ear and replied, “I’ve been here since day one, baby. All-access pass.”
 
(Y/N) groaned, her head falling onto her hand in frustration. "Crap, of course! I forgot to change the delivery address. Should’ve sent it to my office." She rambled on, feeling Ransom’s fingers gently stroking the exposed skin of her back where her dress dipped low. The sensation made her thoughts scatter, but she continued. "I've just been so busy with the new line and collaborations… I must have been distracted."
 
Ransom, amused and secretly enjoying the effect he had on her, leaned in. "It’s okay, baby. I’m glad you forgot. But we’ll circle back to your clothing line later. As I was saying…"
 
He continued explaining how people’s reactions had driven him to learn more about her. The whole time, he observed how calling her baby flustered her, and he couldn't help but smirk at her every time.
 
"I was getting special treatment left and right, just because I introduced myself as Ransom Drysdale. Everyone talked about you like you’re some kind of goddess. I’m jealous, to be honest—I don’t know anything about you. So now, wife, you owe me some answers."
 
(Y/N) sighed, exasperated but also amused by his persistence. "Fine, but can I at least order some room service first? I haven’t eaten all day."
 
The growl that escaped Ransom's throat surprised her. His jaw clenched, and his eyes darkened. "You haven’t eaten since morning? You have three seconds to order something before I punish you myself."
 
The threat in his voice sent a shiver down her spine. He wasn’t joking.
 
“One,” he began counting, making her scramble for the phone.
 
“Okay, okay! I’m ordering now!” she yelped, quickly dialing. Once the order was placed, she tried to lighten the mood. “If you want to change, I- I  have one of your t-shirts.”
 
Ransom raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "You have my t-shirt? Baby, I didn’t know you were obsessed with me."
 
She shot him a glare, blushing furiously. “It’s not what you think!”
 
"Oh God, this is going to be a long night," she groaned, covering her face with her hands.
 
Ransom just laughed softly, enjoying every second of her reaction.
 
As (Y/N) explained her laundry story, she could tell that Ransom was genuinely listening. Every now and then, he would smile or chuckle, especially when she talked about how she ended up with “his” t-shirts simply because she done laundry one time and she found his t-shirts they were just too soft and comfortable not to wear so she got the same brand for her. It was a simple story, but the way she told it made it feel special. She had never thought Ransom would be so easy to talk to. Tonight, it felt almost like a real date.
 
He found himself smiling at the thought of her wearing his shirts, lounging around the house, clearly more attached to him than she ever let on.
 
When the food arrived, they ate casually, talking as if they were on a late-night date. Ransom stole some of her fries, and though she noticed, she didn’t mind. In fact, she found herself enjoying the ease of the moment, the way Ransom actually listened when she spoke. He had never seemed interested in getting to know her before, but now his full attention was on her, and it felt nice.
 
At some point, Ransom changed into just his boxer briefs, and (Y/N) couldn’t help but blush a little at the sight of him, his confidence so natural. They had already finished eating and moved to the bed to keep talking, both feeling more relaxed. She rambled on about her work and life, and Ransom yawned, but not out of boredom—he was genuinely tired.
 
Noticing, (Y/N) suddenly felt guilty. “Oh, I’m so sorry, Hugh. I didn’t realize the time.” She reached out to touch his hand, a gesture she had been doing more often tonight without even thinking. Ransom, picking up on her need for physical connection, found he didn’t mind at all. In fact, he liked it.
 
“No, baby, it’s fine,” he assured her, his voice soft. “I love listening to you.”
 
(Y/N) glanced at the clock and realized it was 3 AM. “No, no, you must be exhausted. I should’ve been more aware. You can sleep here if you want.” She paused, flustered, then added quickly, “I’m not initiating anything! I just thought it would be easier for you.”
 
Ransom chuckled at her nervousness, gently taking one of her hands in his to calm her down. “That would be a good idea,” he said, sitting up. “Let me just brush my teeth.”
 
As Ransom went into the bathroom, (Y/N) tried to make the bed more comfortable for him, nervously adjusting the pillows and blanket. She wanted everything to feel right, but her heart raced as she wondered what he was thinking. She wasn't used to having Ransom this close, this intimately.
 
When he came back from the bathroom, she quickly said, "Please don’t turn off the bathroom light. Just leave the door open a bit." She worried he’d tease her for it.
 
But Ransom only smiled and said, "Okay, baby." There wasn’t a hint of teasing in his voice, just understanding.
 
He walked over to the bed and, with a playful grin, asked, “Permission to get in the bed?”
 
(Y/N) nodded, her heart racing a little as he slid under the covers beside her. They faced each other, and despite the dim lighting, she could see the warmth in his expression. Ransom yawned again, his eyes heavy with sleep.
 
“Goodnight,” he murmured, his voice deep and soft, his hand brushing against hers lightly under the blanket.
 
“Goodnight, Hugh,” (Y/N)whispered, her heart fluttering at how easy this moment felt. She watched as he closed his eyes, feeling a strange sense of comfort and closeness that she hadn’t expected.
 
Ransom woke up to the sound of an alarm blaring, groaning as he realized the noise was interrupting one of the best sleeps he’d had in a while. He was half-buried in the bed, and to his surprise, he also realized that he was the little spoon. He hadn't expected to wake up so close to (Y/N), but there he was, feeling her warmth against his back.
 
And, surprisingly, it felt... amazing.
 
“Ugh… why do you have to get up so early?” he mumbled, his voice rough with sleep as he snuggled deeper into the blankets, refusing to let her go. “Baby, please turn the damn thing off and come back to sleep,” he whined softly, his words childish, but there was something endearing about it.
 
(Y/N) giggled, feeling his grip tighten around her as if he was afraid she might slip away. The sound of his whining tugged at her heart, making the whole moment feel oddly domestic. She reached over to turn off the alarm, her fingers brushing his hand before she whispered, "Welcome to my world. I’ve got to get ready before my first call." She tried to pry herself out of his hold, but Ransom wasn’t having it. He clung to her, his arm draped possessively around her waist.
 
"You’re welcome to stay as long as you want, okay? I will see you later?" she said softly, not wanting to leave but knowing she had to. She glanced at him, wondering how he'd respond. Ransom cracked one eye open, gave her a sleepy wink, and murmured, “You got it, babe.”
 
Hearing the new pet name made her smile, a shy blush creeping onto her cheeks as she pulled herself free. As she started to gather her things and get ready, Ransom called out from the bedroom, his voice still thick with sleep but laced with a teasing edge, “You better eat something before you start working, wife! I’m watching you!”
 
(Y/N) giggled as she slipped on her shoes and grabbed her bag. “Will do, husband,” she called back, the word husband making her heart skip a beat as it rolled off her tongue. She felt a strange warmth settle over her, something she hadn't felt before, as she closed the door behind her.
 
In the room, Ransom lay back, smiling to himself. The sound of her calling him husband echoed in his mind, bringing an unexpected but welcome tug to his heart.
 
(Y/N) arrived just in time for her first call of the day, making sure to grab a quick breakfast like she promised Ransom. His request had stuck with her, and it brought a smile to her face as she prepared for the show. Today’s outfit was strikingly elegant—a wrapped silver dress reminiscent of a traditional sari, flowing and demure yet showing just a hint of skin. It felt like something from the world of Dune, and she wore it with confidence, her posture regal as she took to the runway.
 
As she walked down the runway, her eyes naturally sought out Ransom in the crowd. When she spotted him, seated as usual in the front row, she gave him a playful little wink before striking her pose at the end of the runway. She could feel his gaze on her, following her every move as she turned around and started her walk back.
 
___
 
Ransom, dressed to impress, had been looking forward to seeing his wife again—each show offered something new and exciting. He knew the instant she appeared on the runway, her confident stride and the way the dress moved with her was unmistakable. The wink she gave him sent a flutter through his chest, making him grin. But then, something else caught his eye.
 
As she turned to walk back, the wrapped dress shifted slightly, revealing more of her back than he’d anticipated. The fabric dipped low enough for him to catch a glimpse of something unexpected—a tattoo. Just above her left buttock, a medium-sized tattoo peeked out, barely visible but enough to make his heart race.
 
Ransom’s eyes widened in surprise. He hadn't expected that. He'd never seen that tattoo before, and now his curiosity was piqued. He couldn't help but wonder what the rest of it looked like and what it meant. That small, teasing glimpse had sent a shock through him, leaving him even more intrigued by his wife than before.
 
Ransom was escorted backstage, feeling a bit out of place in the chaos of the fashion world. Everywhere he looked, people were rushing around—models were being helped out of their elaborate outfits, makeup artists were cleaning up, and hairstylists were undoing intricate styles. It was a whirlwind of activity, and yet in the midst of it, he heard the sound of his wife’s melodic laughter. It cut through the chaos like a familiar tune, and when he saw her, his heart skipped a beat.
 
(Y/N) was still in her shimmering silver dress, but her team was already helping her remove the headpiece and undo her hair. When she saw Ransom, her eyes lit up with excitement, and she reached out toward him with a playful grabbing hand. Ransom couldn’t help but smile, taking her hand as he approached. "Guys, this is my husband," she introduced him casually, "hope you don’t mind him hanging back here with us."
 
The team welcomed him without hesitation, and Ransom found himself being handed a chair to sit in front of her. He watched closely as they continued helping her remove everything, his hand still wrapped in hers. There was something intimate about the way she held onto him, like a silent reassurance in the frenzy of the backstage. His eyes never left her, a mix of admiration and quiet possessiveness blooming inside him.
 
When the time came for (Y/N) to remove her dress, Ransom tensed slightly. He glanced around, unsure of what to expect, but to his surprise, no one seemed to care. Models and staff were casually changing all around him—this was clearly the norm here. Still, his protective instincts flared as he helped her out of her heels. She turned her back to him to remove the rest of the dress, and there it was, the tattoo he had only gotten a glimpse of before.
 
Fully revealed now, it was a stunning, realistic tattoo of a lantern on her lower back. Inside the lantern, a radiant sun shone, with sunlight and reflections cleverly designed to look as if they were gleaming out of the tattoo itself. It was beautiful, and for a moment, Ransom found himself mesmerized by the art on her skin. He felt a strange mix of possessiveness and awe—how had he never seen this before?
 
Once (Y/N) changed into a more comfortable dress and shoes, she turned to him with a bright smile. "Let’s go," she said, her voice soft but commanding, pulling him back into the moment.
 
Ransom stood, still slightly dazed, but nodded. He took her hand again, and as they walked out together, he couldn’t stop thinking about that tattoo and how there was always more to learn about the woman he was married to.
 
As (Y/N) led Ransom to the after party, he couldn’t help but feel grateful for the way she constantly reached for his hand. Her love language, physical touch, was something he secretly reveled in, and holding her hand so naturally gave him a sense of closeness he hadn’t realized he craved. She guided him through the crowd of her model friends, celebrities, and designers, but tonight, her attention was entirely on him.
 
It didn’t take long before she came up with a spontaneous game, leaning in with a mischievous smile. "Whoever collects the most nickels from celebrities wins, and the loser has to do whatever the winner wants," she challenged, her eyes gleaming with playful excitement.
 
Ransom chuckled, clearly amused. "You're on, baby," he replied, his competitive side already kicking in.
 
The two of them threw themselves into the game, weaving in and out of the party, talking to famous faces and laughing as they charmed their way into collecting nickels from everyone they could. It became a fun, light-hearted competition, one that seemed to pull them into their own little world despite the glitz and glamour around them. People would smile as they passed, amused by how completely wrapped up they were in their own game, enjoying each other’s company.
 
As they neared the end of the night, (Y/N) and Ransom regrouped, each holding up their handful of nickels and comparing their loot with playful banter. It didn’t even matter who won—it was clear they were both having the time of their lives. The connection between them felt stronger than ever, and for the first time in a long while, Ransom felt like he was getting a glimpse into his wife’s world in a way that truly mattered.
 
With laughter still bubbling between them, (Y/N) leaned closer and whispered, “Well, I guess we’ll see who’s the winner and who’s got to fulfill a request…” Her teasing tone made his heart race, and for a moment, he was happy to lose—just to see what she had in store for him.
 
When Ransom counted their nickels and realized he won the first round, he couldn't help but laugh at (Y/N)'s mock gasp of disbelief.
 
"You cheated! No way!" she exclaimed in a playful tone, crossing her arms in faux indignation.
 
Ransom chuckled and shot her a wink. "All is fair in love and war, baby."
 
She rolled her eyes, but a smile tugged at her lips. "Fine, next game. How about whoever finds an object chosen by the first-round winner, wins? We'll both set a timer for 20 minutes and meet back here. Deal?"
 
"Deal," Ransom agreed with a smirk, clearly loving her competitive spirit. He thought for a second and then said, "The first object would be... Burt's Bees Lip Balm."
 
(Y/N)'s eyes widened as her hands flew up in frustration. "Wait, that’s not fair! I don’t even know if anyone here would have that brand!" She groaned, which Ransom found absolutely adorable.
 
He stepped closer, wrapping his arms around her in an encouraging hug. "Tell you what," he offered, pulling back to look her in the eyes, "I'll give you a ten-minute head start."
 
She raised an eyebrow suspiciously but quickly agreed, starting her timer and rushing off into the crowd in search of the elusive lip balm. Ransom stood there, grinning to himself. After ten minutes had passed, he casually started his own timer and reached into his suit pocket, pulling out the very object they'd been searching for—a Burt's Bees Lip Balm he had all along.
 
When the full 20 minutes were up, (Y/N) finally returned, empty-handed and pouting. Her groan of defeat was almost comical when she saw Ransom standing there, looking far too smug for his own good. He held out his palm, revealing the lip balm.
 
"How did you even manage to get that?" she groaned in disbelief.
 
Ransom grinned wickedly. "I won again, and you know what they say—a magician never reveals his secrets, baby."
 
She couldn’t help but laugh, shaking her head. "Fine, fine. You win. Again."
 
He wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her close. "I have to admit, watching you run around trying to win was even better than the game itself."
 
(Y/N) playfully swatted his chest, but her smile betrayed her affection. "Okay, Mr. Magician. What’s your prize?"
 
Ransom’s smirk softened as he leaned down, brushing his lips against her ear. “I’ll think of something, don’t worry.” The teasing in his voice sent a little shiver down her spine, and she knew he was just as caught up in the fun as she was.
 
Ransom couldn’t deny the warmth spreading in his chest as he watched (Y/N) truly enjoying herself. Spending time with her like this made him realize how much he had missed out on, how genuinely fun, easygoing, and captivating his wife was. He mentally kicked himself for not noticing sooner.
 
Even now, she was cracking him up as they scurried around, grabbing food from the tables. Her voice was serious, but the gleam in her eyes made him smile. "Come on, Hugh. We cannot pass on the chance to enjoy rich people’s delicacies for free. Before the good stuff’s gone, and so we don’t have to eat again later."
 
Ransom laughed at the determined look on her face, his heart swelling with affection. They found a cozy corner and dug into their plates, swapping bites and feeding each other between laughter and conversation. It felt effortless, like they were in their own little world. Ransom enjoyed every second.
 
Once they finished, (Y/N) sighed and winced a little. "Ugh, my feet are killing me." Ransom immediately offered his shoes, but she waved him off. Still, he caught the subtle shift in her mood. She was ready to leave. As easygoing and charming as she was in public, Ransom could tell she was an introvert at heart.
 
"Let’s get out of here," he suggested, and she smiled gratefully, nodding.
 
"Just need to hit the restroom first," she said before disappearing.
 
After 20 minutes, Ransom started to feel uneasy. Something wasn’t right. Trusting his gut, he made his way toward the restrooms. The crowd had thinned out a bit, and as he got closer, he spotted her—and his blood ran cold.
 
A man had grabbed her arm, and though she was clearly trying to get away, he wouldn’t let go. To Ransom’s pride, she had already scratched him with her nails and even elbowed him, but the guy caught her again. Without thinking, Ransom moved, his jaw clenched tight.
 
He quickly pried the man’s hands off her and stepped between them, seething with anger. "Get your hands off my wife."
 
The guy, bigger than Ransom but clearly lacking any real skill, swung at him. Ransom easily dodged, letting the man stumble and trip over his own feet. With one swift move, Ransom knocked him off balance, and the guy hit the ground hard, clutching his hip in pain.
 
"Don’t you ever disrespect anyone like that again, especially not my wife," Ransom growled, his voice low and dangerous. The man tried to rise, but before he could do anything, security arrived, hauling him to his feet and dragging him off.
 
Ransom turned back to (Y/N), who clung to him, clearly shaken. He wrapped his arms around her protectively, rubbing her back soothingly. "You okay, baby?" His voice was gentle now, all the anger drained out.
 
She nodded, burying her face in his chest. "Yeah… thanks, Hugh."
 
He kissed the top of her head softly. "Let’s go home."
 
With a quiet nod, they walked out together, leaving the chaos behind, but not before Ransom made sure that the guy was being dealt with by security. His priority now was getting his wife back to safety.
 
The ride back to (Y/N)’s hotel was quiet, with the weight of the earlier incident hanging between them. Ransom kept his arm around her protectively, feeling the tremble in her body as she held onto his hand tightly. He stroked her hair gently, his fingers trailing from her head down to her back, whispering soft reassurances into her ear. He knew she was shaken, but he wanted her to feel safe with him.
 
Once they arrived, they walked to the elevator, Ransom never letting go of her. When they reached her room, he helped her inside, and softly asked, “Would you like to take a shower?”
 
She nodded quietly, still lost in her thoughts. Ransom guided her to the large bathroom, and without hesitation, asked her which product to use to remove her makeup. Her voice was soft and tired as she told him the steps. He followed her instructions diligently, gently wiping away the layers of makeup until her face was bare, natural, and beautiful.
 
“Do you need help with your shower?” he asked gently, his concern evident. She gave a small nod, her vulnerability touching him deeply.
 
Though they hadn’t been intimate before, this moment wasn’t about passion—it was about care, tenderness, and trust. He helped her undress, his movements slow and respectful, never breaking eye contact. As the warm water cascaded down her skin, he stayed close, making sure she felt supported. Every touch, every action, was filled with affection and attentiveness, not rushing but allowing her to feel safe and calm again.
 
After the shower, Ransom helped her into her pajamas, his movements careful and loving. Once she was settled, he quickly changed into his boxer and t-shirt, and then climbed into bed next to her. He wrapped her in his arms, pulling her close. "I’m here, baby. I’ll always protect you. You don’t have to worry anymore." His voice was soft, but there was a quiet strength behind his words.
 
She looked up at him, her eyes filled with gratitude and something deeper. Her hand reached up to cup his cheek gently, and she asked, “What would the prize be?” referring to the games they’d played earlier, though the moment was so much more than a joke.
 
Ransom smiled down at her, his voice tender as he responded, “For us to try… this family. If you will.”
 
Her eyes softened, and instead of answering with words, she leaned up and kissed him. It was soft and sweet, a promise in itself. Ransom deepened the kiss slightly, his heart swelling with emotions he hadn’t expected to feel. When they finally pulled away, he made sure she was comfortable, holding her tight, letting her know he was there.
 
As she drifted off to sleep, Ransom stayed awake a little longer, his hand resting on her back, his heart full. He had made a promise—to protect her, to be there for her—and for the first time, he was ready to fulfill it. Only then did he allow himself to fall asleep, wrapped around the woman he now realized he never wanted to let go of.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Ransom was relaxing in the family room when he heard the front door open and close, followed by the gentle beep of the security system arming itself. He smiled, proud as ever of his wife, not just a successful model, a fashion designer but also a software engineering graduate who owned her own cybersecurity company working with international banks. She was the one who installed the system that kept their home safe.
 
“Hey baby, in here,” Ransom called out before she could say anything. He heard her footsteps, heavier than usual, signaling she’d had a tough day.
 
Without hesitation, he opened his arms, inviting her to cuddle, and she dropped her bag and kicked off her shoes before sinking into his embrace. She sighed deeply, and Ransom began to gently stroke her back, offering silent comfort.
 
“You wanna eat?” he asked softly, planting a kiss on the top of her head.
 
“I ate already. Just want to chill,” she murmured, snuggling closer. They stayed like that, wrapped in comfortable silence, before Ransom broke it with a playful grin. “Spa time!”
 
He scooped her up in his arms effortlessly, and though she used to protest about being too heavy, ever since Ransom had teasingly scolded her with, “Are you calling me weak?” she had stopped resisting. Now, she just let him pamper her.
 
Ransom carried her to their shared bedroom and laid her gently on the bed. He moved around to prep the room, spreading a cover over the bed and gathering fluffy towels for her. This was usually her role—scheduling spa time for him every weekend—but tonight, Ransom was determined to treat her.
 
After handing her the towel, he set everything up for a massage and facial treatment. She stripped down to the towel and lay down, letting him take over. He started with a gua sha massage on her face, easing the tension she carried, before moving to her back, working out the stress from her body with his strong hands. Her muscles relaxed under his touch, and she let out a soft, contented sigh.
 
"You're really good at this," she teased, her voice lazy with relaxation. "Another hidden talent?"
 
Ransom chuckled. “I guess I’ve picked up a few things.”
 
After the massage, he ran her a bath, making sure everything was just right. When she was done, she found the bedroom tidied up, with Ransom waiting for her on the bed. She crawled in next to him, wearing nothing but one of his oversized t-shirts, which he loved seeing her in.
 
They snuggled closely, her head resting against his chest as his fingers lazily traced patterns on her arm. Then she asked, almost out of nowhere, “Hugh, can we go watch UFC live?”
 
Ransom blinked in surprise. “UFC? Are you sure?” He was curious. “Where’s this coming from?”
 
“I hear you talk about it all the time with Jerry. I want to see what you like, too,” she said, snuggling even closer.
 
Ransom’s heart warmed, but he hesitated. “Baby, you don’t have to. It’s a pretty rough sport, and I don’t think you’ll enjoy it.”
 
But she shook her head. “Please, husband,” she added, giving him her irresistible pleading look.
 
Ransom groaned internally but couldn’t resist. “Alright, we’ll go next weekend, okay?”
 
She squealed with delight, planting a big kiss on his lips. “Thank you, husband. I love you.”
 
“I love you more,” he replied, chuckling as he gave her a playful smack on the butt. “Now sleep, you little minx.”
 
She giggled, and as Ransom held her closer, he couldn’t help but think,

She’s going to be the death of me.

But in the best way possible.
 
___
 
(Y/n) was buzzing with excitement as they flew to Las Vegas for the UFC event. She dressed for the occasion, pairing one of Ransom’s oversized t-shirts with silver cowboy boots, looking effortlessly stylish. As they entered the arena, she was awestruck by its massive size and energy. Seeing the octagon in real life it was unlike anything she'd ever experienced.
 
However, as the fight progressed and punches landed with brutal force, her initial excitement began to fade. She found herself clinging to Ransom, using him as a shield from the intensity of the match. Every time the crowd roared or the fighters exchanged blows, she instinctively leaned into him for comfort. Ransom noticed her discomfort almost immediately, and he wasn’t surprised. He knew this might happen.
 
Without a second thought, he gently led her out of the arena. Once they were outside, Ransom looked down at her with concern. “You okay, baby?” he asked, his hand resting protectively on her back.
 
(Y/n) felt a bit embarrassed, still holding onto him. “I’m sorry I ruined it for you. I should’ve listened when you said it might not be for me.”
 
Ransom shook his head and smiled, pulling her closer. “No baby, you didn’t ruin anything. I’m happy you wanted to try it out because it means a lot to me. But I could see it was too much, and I don’t want you to feel upset. It’s no big deal.”
 
They walked back to the car, and Ransom wrapped his arm around her shoulders, holding her close. As they drove off, (y/n) thought the night was over. But Ransom, being the thoughtful husband he was, had something else in mind. After booking the UFC tickets, he had also bought tickets to a WWE event, knowing she’d likely enjoy the over-the-top theatrics much more.
 
When they pulled up to another arena, (y/n) looked confused at first. “Where are we?” she asked.
 
Ransom just smirked. “You’ll see.”
 
When she spotted the WWE signs, her eyes lit up with excitement. “No way!” she exclaimed, her earlier discomfort forgotten.
 
This time, (y/n) was totally in her element. She loved the showmanship, the humor, and the crowd's infectious energy. It was fun, lively, and entertaining—the perfect contrast to the intensity of UFC. She laughed and cheered alongside Ransom, having an absolute blast.
 
After the event, she thanked him, her smile wide and genuine. “Thank you for this. It was so much fun!”
 
Ransom chuckled, giving her a kiss on the forehead. “Anything for my baby,” he said, knowing he’d do whatever it took to make her happy.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

(Y/n) was in a complete state of panic, staring at her computer, trying to figure out how to save her product launch happening next week. Both of her models had backed out—one hospitalized and the other facing visa issues. It was a disaster, and she couldn’t think of where to find replacements last minute.Just as her thoughts spiraled, she heard a familiar voice. “Is this a bad time, boss?”She looked up and saw Ransom standing in the doorway, concern written all over his face. She immediately smacked her forehead, realizing she had totally forgotten about their lunch plans. She quickly checked her phone, seeing several texts and a missed call from him.“I’m so sorry! I completely forgot, wait—let me just quickly—” she stammered, trying to gather herself, but it was clear she was a mess.Ransom quickly crossed the room and cut her off gently. “Hey, hey, take a deep breath,” he said, guiding her to the seating area of her office. Without a second thought, he pulled her into his lap, cradling her like he always did when she was overwhelmed.“We’re going to order in,” he decided, pulling out his phone to place an order for her favorite food. “No need to stress about lunch right now.” After tapping his phone, he called out to (y/n)’s assistant, letting them know takeout would arrive under his name and to keep an eye out for it.Once that was settled, he turned back to his wife, stroking her back soothingly. “Alright, now tell me what’s going on inside that beautiful head of yours.”(Y/n) sighed, leaning against him as she explained her predicament, “Both of my models canceled last minute. I don’t know where to find replacements, and the shoot is tomorrow! I’m completely stuck!”She was playing with the open buttons of his shirt as she rambled, then suddenly stopped mid-sentence, sitting up straight as an idea struck her. She turned to him with a hopeful look. “Wait—you could be one of the models! You’d look perfect!”Ransom blinked in surprise before chuckling. “Me? A model?”“Yes!” she begged, her eyes wide and pleading.He smirked, already planning to say yes the moment she asked. “Alright, alright. I’ll do it,” he said, earning a relieved groan from her. But then she realized there was still another problem.“I still need another female model,” she muttered, frustrated again.Ransom grinned mischievously, leaning back. “Well, I did marry a model, didn’t I?”(Y/n) burst into laughter, realizing he was right. “I can’t believe I didn’t think of that!”The two of them laughed together, already feeling the stress lift off her shoulders. With Ransom on board and her own experience as a model, they scheduled the photoshoot for tomorrow, confident that the launch would be saved after all.Ransom and (Y/n) arrived at her office studio, and before they knew it, they were whisked away for makeup. Side by side in their chairs, they stole playful glances at each other. This photoshoot was a collaboration between her company and a renowned swimsuit brand, and (Y/n) looked stunning in a beautifully designed terracotta bikini. It featured delicate straps with a flattering cut and intricate embroidered details, perfectly complementing her skin tone.First, they took individual photos, and Ransom, to everyone’s surprise, was a natural in front of the camera. He moved with confidence, owning every shot. Then it was time for their photos together. Their chemistry was undeniable, and the intimacy between them came through in every pose.In one particularly striking shot, (Y/n) stood while Ransom sat on the ground, his arm wrapped around her thigh, his head resting against her skin. She faced away, her eyes gazing out, while Ransom’s eyes were closed, looking completely content as he held her. Her tattoo was clearly visible in the shot, adding a bold, sensual touch to the image. Ransom whispered to the photographer, “Make sure you send this one to me,” clearly loving the intensity of the moment slipping twenty dollars into his pocket.They continued with several other outfits and poses, each one more powerful than the last. Whether it was playful smiles or smoldering looks, they were an effortless pair, making the entire shoot look easy.Once the photoshoot wrapped up, they walked back to (Y/n)’s office, both still buzzing from the energy of the session. “You know, the model gets to keep the outfit,” (Y/n) told him, nudging him.“Oh yeah?” Ransom smirked. “What about my payment?” His tone was playful but suggestive.“I thought you were volunteering,” she shot back with a grin.“Well, nothing’s free in this world, sweetheart,” he winked, closing the gap between them.(Y/n) played along, her voice dripping with flirtation. “How would you like to take the payment, Mr. Drysdale? Check or cash?”Ransom’s expression turned predatory as he stepped closer. “I take you as my payment.”(Y/n) raised an eyebrow, her smile teasing. “My, my, I’m a married woman, sir.”Ransom leaned in, his voice a low, seductive growl. “Trust me, baby, I can take care of you better than your husband.”

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

It was Ransom and (y/n)’s first Thanksgiving together, and they had been invited to Harlan's for the occasion. The night before, Ransom had confessed his hesitation to (y/n), explaining that his family could be judgmental pricks, Harlan being the sole exception. He had told her that if she ever felt uncomfortable, she should let him know. Now, on their way to Harlan’s house, Ransom was a nervous wreck. His leg wouldn’t stop shaking, and he kept drumming his fingers anxiously. He hadn’t even rested his hand on her thigh like he usually did during drives. Sensing his tension, (y/n) gently placed her hand on his thigh. “It’ll be alright. I have you, and you have me,” she reassured him. Ransom sighed softly, feeling a little more relaxed.
 
When they finally arrived, (y/n) immediately understood why Ransom had been so apprehensive. His family was worse than she’d imagined. They were some of the snobbiest people she’d ever encountered, and she’d met A-list celebrities and fashion moguls. While his cousins were somewhat civil, the rest of his family, especially his parents and uncles, were outright dismissive and tried to belittle her at every opportunity. Throughout it all, Ransom never once hesitated to defend her, constantly pushing back against their snide remarks.
 
At one point, Meg, one of the few semi-tolerable family members, interjected, “Actually, (y/n) is a supermodel. I saw her at Paris Fashion Week, and she has her own clothing line.”
 
Jacob, another cousin, chimed in, “Yeah, and she also has this really cool tech company.”
 
Ransom, surprised but grateful, added, “It’s a software engineering company that works on security systems for international banks. But we can save the details for later.”
 
That was when his uncle sneered, “Well played, Ransom. I knew there was no way you could land someone like her without a strategy.”
 
His aunt joined in, saying, “Smart move, securing your future with her. I guess you’ll be getting a double fortune, from your grandfather and from your wife.”
 
Ransom wasn’t angry—he was hurt. This was exactly why he despised his family. They always doubted him, always looked down on him. He was on the verge of a breakdown when (y/n), sitting beside him, suddenly banged her hand on the table, startling everyone.
 “I’ve had enough,” she said, her voice sharp and commanding. “You can say whatever you want about me, but don’t you ever underestimate my husband. He’s better than all of you combined.” She pointed directly at his parents, his uncle, and his aunt. “No offense, Harlan,” she added, turning to Harlan apologetically. 
“None taken, dear,” Harlan said with a smile. “Please, continue.”
 “Pourquoi est-ce que je perds mon temps à expliquer à des idiots comme vous?” (y/n) sighed, switching effortlessly into French.  Why am I wasting my time to explain to idiots like you.  
Linda, Ransom’s mother, blinked in confusion. “Ar-e, are you speaking in French?”
 “Oui, et j’ai plus de pouvoir que vous tous réunis,” (y/n) replied, giving them all a cold, deadly stare. Yes, and I have more power than all of you combined .  Then, she switched languages again, this time to German: “Das wird das letzte Mal gewesen sein, dass Sie schlecht über meinen Mann geredet haben. Wenn ich jemals wieder höre, dass einer von Ihnen irgendetwas über meinen Mann sagt, kann ich Ihnen garantieren, dass Sie nicht bis ans Ende Ihrer Tage glücklich leben werden.”  That will be the last time you speak ill of my husband. If I ever hear any of you say anything about my husband again, I can guarantee you that you will not live happily ever after.  Ransom was in awe, his eyes wide as he watched his wife defend him fiercely. How many languages does she speak? he thought to himself. This is German, right? Shaking her head in disbelief, (y/n) muttered in Russian, “Пошли, муж, я даже не знаю, зачем я потратила время, объясняя это этим глупым людям. Мне следовало бы забронировать билеты в Африку вместо этого.” Let’s go husband, I don’t even know why I wasted my time explaining to this stupid people. I should’ve booked flights to Africa instead.  
She stood up, ready to leave. Ransom realized what was happening and quickly followed suit. “I’m sorry, Harlan,” (y/n) said as she hugged Harlan warmly. “You’ve prepared a lovely Thanksgiving, but I’m sorry that your children are idiots.”
 
Harlan chuckled and patted her cheek gently. “No worries, dear. I appreciate you coming, and it was good to see you again.”
 
Ransom’s expression was grim as he hugged his grandfather next. Ransom whispered to his grandfather, “Thank you. Now I know why you chose her.” As they pulled away, Harlan winked at his grandson, saying, “Take care of her.”
 
___
 
The journey home was heavy with silence. Ransom had said nothing the entire way, his face a mask of unreadable emotion. (Y/n) could feel the tension and worry gnawing at her, unsure of what he was thinking or feeling after the intense Thanksgiving dinner. As they walked through the living room, she opened her mouth to say something, hoping to break the quiet.
 
Before she could speak, Ransom's voice cut through the air, low and commanding. "I’ll count to ten, and you better be in our room. And when I’m done counting, you better be on the bed... wearing nothing."
 
His tone was firm, leaving no room for hesitation. (Y/n)’s heart raced at his words, excitement surging through her. Without a second thought, she turned and sprinted toward the bedroom, anticipation making her every movement quicker. The silence of the car ride was forgotten as she prepared to obey his command, her pulse quickening with each second.
 
This is their first time to be intimate and her emotions are all over the place.
 
She could heard him counting and she can hear he is close, she quickly obey his command. And he counted 1 he entered the bedroom with no shirt on, as his hands were on his belt trying to unbuckle his pants. He licked his lips with his predatory smile.
 
Ransom wastes no time, “My, My look at you my beautiful…. Sexy…. Smart…. Brave little wife”
 
With a firm grip around her ankles he dragged her to his eye levels, he's mere inches from her face, and she sees a slight smirk appear on his face. Gently cups her jaw, Slowly, their lips meet, and fireworks explode in her chest.
 
The passion consumes both of them as she press even harder against each other's bodies. The friction between his skin on her nipple creates fire within her. Unconsciously she bucks her hips to his craving more of him. Ransom’s tongue playfully flicks against hers, letting her taste him. She clutch onto him, tightly, and it seems he doesn't want to let go either. Each touch is full of passionate desire, combined with the softness of true love.
 
“Oh Baby, you have no idea what you have done to me” Ransom pulled away with a groan, clearly not ready to let go of her sweet lips. “No one ever stand up for me” Ransom looked in to her soul, and his eyes speak more than he said. “Especially when you speak foreign languages, baby I just can’t get enough of you. I love you so much, and now it’s time for your reward”
 
His hands move to her lower back, and he pulls her hips to his. “Feel that? That’s all cause of you” The evidence of his desire for her strains against the fabric of his pants.
 
He let go of her mouth, his eyes still on her as going down and suddenly pulls her onto his mouth, and she moans at the way he sucks and licks her roughly. “Hugh”.
 
He groaned “Yes baby, say my name”.
 
His movements are precise and just the way she wanted them, and she grip the sheets as she let passion course through her. When Ransom nips her pleasure point, he sends searing heat up her spine. He keeps a firm grasp on her, ensuring she’s pinned in place, not being able to squirm away.
 
All the while, his tongue creates circles over her pleasure point. But then, he presses two of his fingers inside her, making her cry out from the build up. “Oh shit baby, you’re so tight.”
 To make things even more intense, he curls them, brushing and hitting the spot that will inevitably lead to her ending. She flutters around his touch, trying to hold on for dear life. Ransom uses his mouth and his hands to drive her pleasure higher and higher. Just as she’s about to find her release, he pulls back, frustrating her. “ Putain de bordel de merde !” For fuck's sake, fuckk! 
He presses kisses along the side of her neck, driving her wild. “Yes, baby talk dirty to me” he groaned on her neck.
 
At the same time, he grips the base of his shaft and teases her entrance with it. With soft, gentle nudges, he eases himself inside her, moving inch by inch. She arches into the touch, relishing the fullness of his big shaft filling her up slowly. She hooks her legs around his waist, encouraging him to move deeper.
 
His strong body works against hers as he finally thrusts into her fully... “Fuck, you’re so tight. So perfect for me”
 
And she wrap her arms around his broad shoulders, pulling him down for a fiery kiss.
 
Suddenly, he pulls her onto his lap with much ease and gently cups her jaw. “Oh yeah, baby! That’s it” he loved this so much. With her taking the lead, moving her body in erotic way getting him even worked up. Her breasts bouncing up and down, he couldn’t help but taking all in his hands groaning at the same time as he felt the softness of her breasts and her perky buds oh how he loved the sound you made when he played with them.
 
She gasps as he rubs her in firm, wetting his fingers then fast circles, letting the electricity roam through her whole body. His hips rock into her with a steady, toe-curling rhythm, as she throw her head back and give yourself over to the sensation. Heat coalesces between her thighs with every thrust he gives her...
 
And with a final grind of his hips against hers, she finds her release. Ransom watches her come undone, lips parted, eyes barely open but fixed on him, and the sight spurs his own orgasm on. He buries his face in the crook of her neck as they both find their endings.
 
Ransom instantly snuggles up to her, interlocking his fingers with hers. “Thank you, I love you so much” He panted on top of her, comfortably putting his head on her breast. “I love you guys too” giving each kiss to her breast earning a giggle from his wife.
 
“Baby, you’re so tight I swear you’re like a virgin. You’re not are you?” Ransom concerned as he thought that he might not be gentle for her first time but she shook her head “I’m not, just done it one time with..” she started to explain. “Hell no! I don’t want to know who the imbecile was. Might as well hunt him down to kill him myself” he bit her nipple teasingly but instead of yelp she actually enjoyed it, with a groaned “you’re good, he’s gay. We just wanted to get it done cause we were friends and I trust him since no one wants to be with the fat girl”
 
Obviously Ransom noticed how she enjoyed when he bit her nipple “Oh yeah, then lucky me. The fat girl is all mine now” Ransom smirked and started wetting his fingers playing with her areola and lapping her nipple and giving a little bite “And I’m about to get lucky again”.
 
“oh Ehemann, nimm mich, benutze mich, ich bin dir ausgeliefert.”

Oh husband, take me, use me, I’m at your mercy.

“ It’s going to be a long night for us” Ransom smirked.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Two years into their marriage, the young Drysdale couple had faced their share of arguments like any other couple. But no matter what, they always worked things out because being apart was simply not an option for them. Ransom had built a successful architect and construction company, thriving in his role as a hands-on leader. His right-hand man, Jerry, had been with him since the very beginning, and the two had developed a strong bond over the years.
 
On what seemed like an ordinary day, Ransom was visiting one of his construction sites when disaster struck. He stepped on a nail and, to make matters worse, lost his footing, tripping and falling headfirst. It was clear that today wasn’t his day. Jerry, alarmed, called an ambulance, fearing Ransom might have a concussion.
 
Ransom was soon at St. Michael’s Hospital, getting checked out by Bonnie, Jerry’s wife, who worked as a nurse there. Lying on the hospital bed, Ransom felt a wave of dread when he suddenly heard, “Ransom Drysdale.” Jerry winced as Ransom growled, “Which one of you idiots called my wife?” Jerry shook his head while Bonnie just shrugged innocently.
 
(Y/n) hated the name “Ransom,” only using it when he was in serious trouble.
 
“Hey, baby,” Ransom attempted, flashing a sheepish grin, trying to ease the tension.
 
“Stop talking,” (y/n) said curtly, her gaze shifting to Jerry, who looked like he wanted to disappear. “You obviously won’t say a word. Bonnie, dear, would you be an angel and tell me what happened to my idiotic husband?” Her smile was tight, laced with impatience. She had rushed out of her office mid-meeting after receiving a note from her assistant saying, Mr. Drysdale 911/ St. Michael Hospital, her mind racing with worry the whole way.
 
Bonnie stepped in, “Right, so he has 12 stitches because he stepped on a nail. It was quite deep, so make sure not to put weight on it meaning bed rest, and whatever you do, don’t let it get wet.” She pointed to Ransom’s bandaged foot.
 
“Also, he hit his head pretty hard. We checked him over, and there’s no concussion, but he might see black dots if exposed to bright lights, so he should stay indoors,” Bonnie continued.
 
“And no sexual activity for two months at least, until the stitches are removed,” she added, giving Ransom a look. He groaned dramatically, “You’re just being a hater now.”
 
Before he could say more, (y/n) shot him a glare, effectively silencing him. Bonnie handed over the paperwork to (y/n) to sign. “He’s free to go,” she said.
 
“Thanks, Bonnie,” (y/n) responded.
 
As Bonnie left the room, she whispered to her husband, “(Y/n) is terrifying when she’s angry.”
 
“I know,” Jerry muttered back.
 
“Good luck, you two,” Bonnie smirked knowingly, sensing the trouble Jerry and Ransom were both in.
 
Once alone, (y/n) turned to Jerry. “Look me in the eyes and tell me what really happened. Because I know my husband won’t, and if you don’t, I’ll dig into your old MySpace profile and make sure your wife and kids see it.” Her voice was calm but deadly.
 
Jerry, feeling the weight of her threat, blurted out in a rushed breath, “Ransomdecidedtocometothesitesnotwearinghisbootsorthegearandheclaimedthatitwassafebutthenhesteppedonanailandtrippedbeforebanginghisheadandhewasdownforagoodfiveminutesbeforeregainingconsciousnesswhentheambulancearrived.”
 
“Oh, come on, man! We have a code!” Ransom groaned, slumping in defeat.
 
“Sorry, Ransom, but Mrs. Bossman here is scary,” Jerry said, rushing out of the room to escape the situation. “I’m gonna grab a coffee.”
 
With Jerry gone, (y/n) slowly turned back to Ransom, who looked up at her with wide, innocent eyes. “I love you?” he offered weakly.
 
“You are in
so
much trouble,” (y/n) replied, her voice calm but resolute, making it clear that Ransom wouldn’t be able to charm his way out of this one.
 
After Jerry left, promising to bring Ransom’s car tomorrow and handle everything, (y/n) silently helped her husband change out of his clothes. Ransom, ever the joker, tried to lighten the mood. “Oh baby, Bonnie said no sex, but we can make it work,” he teased, but (y/n) didn’t even react. She hadn’t spoken much since they got home from the hospital, her quietness weighing heavily on him.
 
“Do you want pizza or mac and cheese for dinner?” she asked plainly, completely ignoring his attempt at humor.
 
“Are you on the menu?” he tried again, winking, hoping to get a rise out of her. But she remained unfazed, continuing to help him as though he hadn’t said anything.
 
“Pizza it is,” she replied, her voice neutral. “Let’s try this slowly—I’ll help you lift your leg.” Carefully, (y/n) supported his injured leg and helped him into his boxer briefs, moving with gentle precision to avoid hurting him. Once he was dressed, she propped him up into a sitting position, arranging pillows to make sure he was comfortable.
 
She ordered the pizza from her phone before heading downstairs to grab a big bottle of water. As she returned, she made some calls, the efficiency of her words making Ransom feel even guiltier for the trouble he’d caused.
 
“Hey Dee, yes, he’s alright, thanks for asking. I need all my meetings moved online until further notice. Make sure Ronald is in sync with my calendar, and Helga is in charge of the dresses. Tony can handle the sets. And you can leave early today, thanks.”
 
Next, she called her other assistant. “Hey, Ronald. Family emergency—I need everything moved to online meetings. Let Chrystal know she’ll be leading the outing next week. Dee’s in the loop. Sync the calendars, please. Thanks.”
 
Her businesslike tone only deepened Ransom’s regret. He watched her with a mix of guilt and admiration, knowing she had her own full schedule yet always dropped everything to take care of him. His heart heavy, he tried again.
 
“Baby, I’m sorry,” he started, his voice softer now. “I didn’t mean to make you worry. I know I shouldn’t have done that. I’m an idiot, but please talk to me. Yell at me, curse at me, but don’t ignore me… I can’t handle it,” he pleaded, hoping for any sign of forgiveness.
 
(Y/n) sighed deeply, her expression softening just a little. “Yes, you are an idiot,” she admitted, finally meeting his gaze. “But you’re my idiot.” She crossed her arms, giving him a look that was both stern and affectionate. “I swear to God, if this ever happens again, I’m going to divorce you, cheat with you, and elope with you. Capisce?”
 
Ransom blinked, taking in the sweet but firm threat. Her words made him smile despite himself. He nodded enthusiastically, desperate to stay in her good graces. “Capisce.”
 
Then, with a pitiful pout, he added, “Can I have a cuddle, please? The anesthesia’s wearing off, and it huwts,” he whined, turning on his best baby voice, knowing she couldn’t resist him when he was like this.
 
With an eye roll but a soft smile, (y/n) climbed into bed beside him, wrapping her arms around him gently. “Alright, you big baby,” she teased, holding him close as he snuggled into her warmth, the tension finally beginning to dissolve between them.
 
She grabbed the remote and asked, “WWE?”
 
Ransom’s face lit up, and he nodded eagerly. “Hell yeah,” he said, relaxing completely now, grateful to be in her arms with his favorite show on.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

After four years of marriage, Ransom and (y/n) had become deeply familiar with each other. They knew each other’s quirks, moods, and habits almost like second nature. But on this particular night, as dinner time rolled around, Ransom found (y/n) in the kitchen, looking like her usual captivating self. Without hesitation, he wrapped his arms around her from behind. “Baby, my mouth hurts. I don’t think I can eat anything,” Ransom muttered in a whiny tone. (Y/n) turned around, eyeing him with a mix of affection and concern. She gently cupped his chin, checking his mouth. “I knew it. You’ve got a tooth coming in. Good thing I already made a dentist appointment for tomorrow.” Ransom grumbled but didn’t resist. He’d known something was wrong, and his wife always seemed one step ahead of him.The next morning, after a quick dental procedure, Ransom was laid out in recovery. Slowly, he began to open his eyes, blinking away the haze from the anesthesia. As his vision cleared, his gaze fell on (y/n), who was sitting by his side. He smiled dopily, clearly still under the influence of the anesthesia. “Wow… where did you come from?” he muttered, his voice low and slurred. His eyes roved over her face, as though he were seeing her for the first time. (Y/n) couldn’t help but smirk, leaning back a bit to let him continue. Ransom’s grin widened. “Did someone send you? Are you… like, my angel? ‘Cause you look like an angel. What’s your name?” (Y/n) raised her eyebrows, amused, but remained silent. He frowned a little, pouting. “Come on, don’t leave me hanging. You’re too gorgeous to not have a name. I just… I just wanna know you better. Help a guy out here.” His voice was full of playful frustration. “You’re persistent,” (y/n) teased. “Yeah, well, it’s not every day a guy wakes up to someone who looks like you. How lucky am I? So, what’s your name?” She let him stew for a moment longer before sighing. “If you must know, my name is (y/n) Drysdale.” Ransom’s eyes widened, and he blinked rapidly, clearly shocked. “Wait… that’s my name!” He squinted at her, looking genuinely confused now. “You’re not… my sister, right? Please say no. That’d be weird. I mean, my whole family is kinda ugly, but you… you’re like a goddess.” (Y/n) let out a small laugh, shaking her head. “No, Ransom. I’m not your sister. I’m your wife.” Ransom’s jaw dropped even further, his face a picture of disbelief. “No way! I’m married? To you? How the hell did I pull that off?” He ran a hand through his hair, clearly trying to wrap his head around it. “How long have we been together?” “Four years,” she answered with a grin. “Four years?” he repeated, amazed. “Wow. I’m honestly so proud of myself right now. Like… damn, I really scored myself a fine wife.” His dazed grin returned, and he leaned closer to her. “So, do you love me? I mean, if I’m your husband and all… that’s how this works, right?” (Y/n) leaned in and kissed him softly on the lips. When she pulled back, Ransom’s eyes were wide in awe. “That was… incredible,” he whispered, clearly stunned. “I need another one. I think I blinked. Yeah, I blinked, and I missed it. Let’s do a redo. You know, just for accuracy.” (Y/n) rolled her eyes but leaned in again, giving him a longer, slower kiss. When she pulled back this time, Ransom was grinning like a fool. “Okay, one more time. Third time’s the charm. I promise I won’t blink this time. Cross my heart.” “You’re impossible,” (y/n) laughed, giving him one more peck. He sighed contentedly, sinking into the bed. “If I weren’t married to you already, I’d propose right now. I mean, wow. I really hit the jackpot, huh?” “You certainly think highly of yourself, don’t you?” (y/n) teased. “Damn right,” he winked. “I’d marry you all over again if I could.” “Lucky for you, you already did,” she reminded him with a playful smile. “And I’m never letting you go,” Ransom declared dramatically, reaching out for her hand. Then, with a sly grin, he added, “Now, about that fourth kiss… just to be extra sure I didn’t blink.” “Not a chance, Ransom.” “Worth a shot,” he smirked, settling back with a satisfied look on his face.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

The Vogue 73 Questions team arrived at the Drysdale residence on a sunny afternoon. The crew admired the contemporary elegance of the home, which was chic but still very lived-in, full of personality. (Y/n) opened the door, smiling brightly, welcoming everyone inside. “Hi! Come on in, it’s a little chaotic today but we’ll make it work,” she said, leading them into the living room, where large windows bathed the space in warm light. “Ready for 73 Questions, (Y/n)?” the interviewer asked as the camera began rolling. “Absolutely, fire away!” she replied, settling onto the sofa. “What’s the best thing about your morning routine?” “Easy. Waking up to the smell of coffee. My husband makes it every morning… although sometimes he drinks half of it before I even get out of bed.” She laughed, looking off toward the kitchen as if she could picture him there at that moment. The interviewer chuckled along before continuing, “What’s your favorite room in the house?” “Hmm… the kitchen, for sure. That’s where we spend the most time together—whether it’s cooking, or in his case, eating.” She shot a playful grin at the camera. “He’s a big foodie.” “Speaking of Ransom, what’s something you two love to do together?” “Oh, that’s a tough one! We love to travel, but honestly, some of our best times are just when we’re at home binge-watching some crime thriller or playing card games. We get super competitive!” She winked, knowing Ransom would have a comment about that later. The interview continued, touching on her work, passions, and inspirations, but Ransom was never far from the conversation. Even when asked about her career, she managed to tie it back to him. “What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?” the interviewer asked. (Y/n) paused for a moment, her expression softening. “It’s actually something my husband told me. He said, ‘Don’t let anyone convince you that you’re not enough, because you are. You always have been.’ I carry that with me every day.” The camera captured the sincerity in her eyes, but just as the next question was about to come, Ransom himself appeared at the edge of the frame, having overheard her from the hallway. “Did I hear my name?” he teased, walking in with that easy, confident stride, hands casually in his pockets. (Y/n) looked up at him, surprised but not really, because Ransom always found a way to pop in at moments like this. “You did,” she confirmed with a smirk. “Don’t flatter yourself.” “Oh, I don’t have to. You do that for me,” he quipped, leaning down to plant a kiss on her cheek. The crew chuckled, amused by the effortless chemistry between the two. The interviewer grinned, deciding to pull Ransom in for a moment. “Ransom, since you’re here—what’s one thing that (Y/n) does that always makes you smile?” Without missing a beat, Ransom smiled, his eyes twinkling. “She has this adorable habit of murmuring good morning to me as she is not a morning person at all. She’s adorable when she’s grumpy in the morning.” (Y/n) groaned playfully. “You weren’t supposed to tell anyone that!” “Sorry, babe, they asked.” He shrugged, completely unapologetic, but his smile was soft. “Alright, one more for you, Ransom,” the interviewer said, clearly enjoying the dynamic. “What’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever done for (Y/n)?” Ransom thought for a moment, glancing down at (Y/n), who looked up at him curiously. “I don’t know if I’d call it romantic, but there was this one time… she had a huge presentation coming up, super stressed. So, I canceled all my meetings, cooked her dinner—yes, I can cook, don’t look so surprised—and set up the living room with all her favorite snacks and movies. Just a night for her to relax.” (Y/n) softened, her gaze on him tender. “Okay, that was romantic. I’ll give you that one.” Ransom leaned in, brushing a stray hair from her face with surprising gentleness for such a typically sarcastic man. “I’ve got more up my sleeve if you ever need it.” The interviewer smiled at the moment but kept the questions coming. “What’s the secret to keeping a marriage strong?” (Y/n) glanced at Ransom, smiling before answering. “Laughter. We don’t take life too seriously, and we’re always making fun of each other… in a loving way, of course.” Ransom added, “Yeah, and always knowing when to give each other space… or when to steal the last slice of pizza without getting caught.” (Y/n) laughed, swatting his arm lightly. “He’s notorious for that, by the way.” The interviewer then asked (Y/n) one more personal question. “What’s the best part of being married to Ransom?” Without hesitation, she replied, “It’s that I can be completely myself around him. No pretenses, no walls. He knows all my flaws, and he still loves me anyway.” She turned to him, her voice a little quieter, “Plus, he’s my best friend.” Ransom’s expression softened even further, his usual bravado fading for a moment. He leaned down and kissed her forehead, a gesture so tender that even the crew went silent for a beat. The interviewer smiled, sensing the deep connection between them. “And Ransom, what’s the best part about being married to (Y/n)?” Ransom grinned, glancing down at his wife. “That she puts up with me.” (Y/n) laughed, nudging him with her elbow. “That’s your answer?” “Okay, fine,” he relented, his tone sincere now. “The best part is that no matter what happens, no matter how crazy life gets, I know she’s always got my back. And I’ve got hers.” The interviewer let the moment linger before wrapping up. “Well, that’s 73 questions! Thank you both for your time.” (Y/n) smiled, waving at the camera. “Thank you! This was fun.” As the crew packed up, Ransom pulled (Y/n) closer, whispering, “You realize I’m never gonna let you forget that you called me romantic on camera, right?” (Y/n) laughed, leaning into him. “Yeah, yeah. Just wait until they ask me to do your 73 Questions.” Ransom chuckled, giving her a playful squeeze. “Bring it on.”

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Ransom and (Y/n) had become a beloved couple in the social media world, especially after their adorable Vogue video. Their charisma and undeniable chemistry won them a fanbase that eagerly awaited their next cute moment. Inspired by the growing popularity, they finally decided to create a TikTok account, where (Y/n) loved sharing their fun and often chaotic life through trending videos.Today, she had an idea that would surely entertain their fans. As Ransom busied himself in the kitchen making popcorn, (y/n) set up her camera to capture the perfect moment. With a smirk, she began filming. “Hey bro, could you please grab my water bottle from the counter?” Ransom stopped in his tracks, turning around with a look of utter disbelief. He blinked at her, trying to process what he just heard. “Did you just call me bro? Like seriously bro? Bro?” He raised his eyebrows. Trying to hold back laughter, (y/n) shot back, “Well, I didn’t mean to offend you, dude!” Ransom stepped closer, feigning indignation. “Woah, woah, woah! Hold up! First of all, since when did ‘honey’ or ‘husband’ become ‘bro’ and ‘dude’? Second, we are married! Get it checked, baby!” “Oh, come on!” she laughed, waving her hand dismissively. “I just wanted you to bring me my water, pal!” Ransom couldn’t take it anymore. He rushed over, a mock-serious expression on his face. “Well, wife, don’t ever call me that again! It is offensive!” And with that, he attacked her with playful kisses, catching her off guard. “Husband! Stop! I’m trying to film!” (y/n) squealed, laughing as she tried to push him away, but he was relentless, showering her cheeks, lips whole face with soft, teasing kisses. “Hugh, honey… it’s just a TikTok trend!” she managed to say between giggles. Ransom, in a dramatic flourish, snatched her phone out of her hands and turned it towards himself, a cheeky grin plastered across his face. “Alright, TikTok fam, listen up! This is what happens when you try to call your husband ‘bro’” He paused, striking a pose for the camera with his best mock-serious expression. “So take note, ladies and gentlemen: if you want to maintain your relationship status and avoid public displays of affection that may lead to extreme embarrassment, don’t ever call your significant other ‘dude’ or ‘pal.’” With that, he turned back to (y/n), who was doubled over with laughter, and said, “But if you do, make sure you plan your revenge!” She rolled her eyes, still giggling, as he tossed the phone back to her, both of them completely in their element, having the time of their lives together.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

The TikTok trend had become a delightful tradition in the Drysdale household, and lately, Ransom’s wife had taken it to a whole new level. Today, however, Ransom had a crucial online conference meeting with clients, so he dressed up in a crisp shirt and tie, ready to impress. He settled into his study, preparing for the serious discussion ahead. Just as he began discussing important matters, the door swung open, and there stood (y/n), wrapped in nothing but a towel. Ransom’s eyes widened, his mind racing to comprehend her sudden appearance. She looked innocent, a playful glint in her eye as she stood there, seemingly unbothered by his professional demeanor. Ransom watched, half-amused and half-terrified, as she flashed him a cheeky grin and opened her towel before, just as quickly, dashed out of the room. “Fuck, me” he muttered under his breath, his heart racing. He was grateful for the positioning of his computer camera; it was only capturing his face and the bookshelves behind him, shielding him from any awkwardness that might have ensued if his clients had seen his wife’s playful stunt. “Uh, sorry, can I get back to you on that?” he stammered, suddenly needing to end the meeting. The clients were mid-sentence when he cut in again. “I think I’m going to have to reschedule. I have…uh…a family matter to attend to.” He clicked off the call, letting out a sigh of relief. His expression shifted from bewilderment to determination as he leaned back in his chair, a sly smile creeping across his face. “(Y/n)!” he called out, his voice booming throughout the house. “You better be prepared for what I’m about to do!” He quickly pushed himself away from the desk and stood up, fueled by a mix of adrenaline and playful annoyance. He stepped out of his office, glancing around the house for any signs of where she might have hidden. “Where are you hiding, you little minx?” he teased, starting his search through the hallway. Ransom knew his wife all too well; she loved a good chase, and it wouldn’t be long before he found her. He checked the living room first, calling out her name again, “(y/n), you can’t hide from me!” But the only response was the soft echo of his own voice bouncing off the walls. As he moved toward the kitchen, Ransom’s heart raced with anticipation. He could already picture her trying to stifle her laughter, probably somewhere nearby, ready to jump out and surprise him again. The thrill of the hunt was on, and he couldn’t help but smile. “Come out, come out, wherever you are!” he teased, his voice playful yet firm. He had every intention of getting back at her for this little stunt, and he was ready to make it memorable. After all, this was the kind of fun that kept their relationship alive and exciting. He turned a corner and spotted a glimpse of her towel peeking from behind the couch. “Gotcha!” Ransom shouted, lunging forward with a triumphant grin.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Ransom sighed as he watched his wife's eyes sparkle with mischief. "What is it now, baby?" he asked, half-expecting her to pull another one of her playful pranks.She grinned widely, her excitement contagious. "So, there's this trend going on TikTok where husbands act out spicy scenes from books," she explained, her tone teasing. "I thought it would be fun if we tried it. I've picked three scenes from this new romance novel I'm reading. You just have to act them out!"Ransom raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Oh really? And what exactly do I have to do?""Easy!" she said, pulling out her phone."I'll read a line from the book, and then you just... act it out like the character would." She scanned her notes, her excitement palpable. "Trust me, you'll love it!""Alright, I'm game," Ransom said, rolling his shoulders back and getting into character. "What's the first line?"She cleared her throat dramatically. "He pulled her close, his breath warm against her ear as he whispered, 'I've wanted you for so long!"Ransom wasted no time. He stepped closer to her, wrapping an arm around her waist and drawing her in tightly. Leaning down, he whispered in her ear, "I've wanted you for so long." His voice was low and sultry, and he could feel her shiver against him.She let out a soft gasp, as it turned her on."Wow, that was... " she exclaimed, biting her lip. "Okay, next scene!"With a twinkle in her eye, she read the next line: "Their lips met, igniting a fire that neither could contain."Ransom smirked, his confidence soaring.He leaned in, capturing her lips with his, pouring all his passion into the kiss. He held her there, feeling her melt against him as their bodies moved instinctively closer.Ransom smirked, his confidence soaring.He leaned in, capturing her lips with his, pouring all his passion into the kiss. He held her there, feeling her melt against him as their bodies moved instinctively closer.When they finally pulled apart, she was breathless, her cheeks flushed. "Okay, okay! That was definitely on point," she is, trying to regain her composure."One last scene!"She took a deep breath, flipping to the final part. "He pushed her on the bed, his hands gripping her wrists above her head as he said, 'You're mine."Ransom took a moment to really embrace the character, feeling a mix of obssesive and intensity. He gently pushed her back down on the couch, pinning her wrists above her head. "You're mine," he growled, his voice dripping with desire.She gazed up at him, wide-eyed and flushed face. "Ransom, that was incredible!" she exclaimed.Ransom smirked, pulling her back into his arms. "Well, how could I resist? You make it all too easy.""Maybe we should do this more often," she suggested, winking at him. "Yeah just as long as the trend is spicy," he replied, grinning back at her. ”Oh honey, I didn’t mean for the content.” Giving him a seductive smile.