Chapter 361: What to do Next?

Michael Reyes slowly blinked awake, the morning light filtering through the curtains and casting a soft glow across the room. He felt the warmth of another body next to him, and for a moment, he wondered if it was a dream. But as he turned his head, his breath caught in his throat.

Bridget was there, nestled against his chest, her head resting on his shoulder, her arm draped lazily across his torso. She was sound asleep, her breathing slow and steady, her face peaceful and content. Her hair spilled over the pillow, a few strands tickling his skin.

Michael couldn't help but smile. The last time they had spent the night together, he had woken up alone, with Bridget already up and cooking breakfast in the kitchen. But today was different. She was still here, in his arms, and he felt a surge of warmth and affection for her.

Careful not to wake her, Michael gently shifted his position, allowing himself to take in the sight of her. Bridget looked so serene, a slight smile playing on her lips even in her sleep. It was moments like this that made all the stress and challenges he faced worth it. Just being with her, sharing these quiet, intimate moments, brought him a sense of peace he hadn't felt in a long time.

As he lay there, holding her close, Michael thought about how much Bridget meant to him. She had been his partner, his confidante, and his greatest support through all the ups and downs. And now, seeing her so relaxed and comfortable in his arms, he realized just how much he cherished these moments together.

The morning was quiet, the usual sounds of the city far below them, muted by the thick walls of the penthouse. Michael's thoughts drifted back to their recent trip, the memories of their journey through the North Luzon Loop still fresh in his mind. It had been an incredible escape, just the two of them exploring new places and enjoying each other's company.

But this—waking up with Bridget still here, still in his arms—this felt even more special.

Bridget stirred slightly, her fingers curling against his chest as she shifted in her sleep. Michael held his breath, not wanting to wake her just yet. He wanted to savor this moment a little longer, to keep her close for as long as he could.

He gently brushed a strand of hair away from her face. Bridget's eyelids fluttered, and she let out a soft sigh, but she didn't wake up.

As the minutes passed, Michael knew that they would eventually have to get up, start the day, and face whatever challenges awaited them. But for now, he was content to stay right where he was, holding Bridget close and enjoying the simple pleasure of having her by his side.

Finally, after what felt like hours but was only a few minutes, Bridget began to wake. She slowly opened her eyes, blinking away the last remnants of sleep. Her gaze met Michael's, and she smiled sleepily, her voice soft and warm as she whispered.

"Good morning."

"Good morning," Michael replied, his voice just as gentle. "You stayed."

Bridget laughed, the sound filling the room with warmth. "Come on, lazy. I'll make you something delicious to motivate you."

That finally got Michael moving. He swung his legs over the side of the bed and stood up, stretching his arms above his head. "You know I can't resist your cooking," he said, walking over to her and wrapping his arms around her waist from behind.

Bridget leaned back into him, closing her eyes for a brief moment as she enjoyed the feel of his arms around her. "Good. Now go get ready, and I'll meet you in the kitchen."

Michael kissed the top of her head before reluctantly letting her go. "Alright, but don't start without me."

Bridget smiled, giving him a playful nudge. "I won't."

As Michael headed to the bathroom to freshen up, Bridget made her way to the kitchen. The penthouse was quiet, the early morning stillness only broken by the faint hum of the city below. She loved these moments, the calm before the day truly began, when it was just the two of them in their own little world.

She moved with ease around the kitchen, gathering ingredients and setting up for breakfast. Michael joined her a few minutes later, freshly showered and looking more awake. He walked over to the kitchen island, where Bridget was busy whisking the eggs, and leaned against the counter, watching her with a contented smile.

"What's on the menu today, Chef Bridget?" he asked, his tone light and playful.

Bridget looked up from her task, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "How about a classic omelet with some toast and bacon? Simple, but always satisfying."

"Sounds perfect," Michael said, reaching for a piece of fruit from the bowl on the counter.

Once everything was ready, they sat down at the table, side by side, and dug into the meal.

"So what's our next plan?" Bridget asked.

"Reaping what we have sown," Michael replied. "I am thinking of buying a house."