Freda's POV

I could hear the familiar sound of the horn, and my heart leaped with joy as I recognized it was Hardin. He had been away for what felt like an eternity due to work, and his absence had left a void that only his presence could fill. Without a second thought, I dashed down the stairs, anticipation bubbling within me like a fizzy drink waiting to burst.

As I reached the bottom of the stairs, there he was, standing tall and handsome, a sight for sore eyes. Without hesitation, I launched myself into his arms, feeling the warmth and strength of his embrace envelop me like a comforting...