Chapter 782 
Sophie spun around, but before she could figure out who it was, she was pulled into a tight hug. 
Her first instinct was to push away, but then she caught a whiff of that familiar, faint tobacco scent that clung to Colby 
Even though Colby had quit smoking, that scent still lingered on him. 
“Colby…” 
Sophie felt a lump forming in her throat. 
They’d only been apart for a week. In those seven days, she had faced Odie alone, stayed by herself in the sleepy town of Summerfield, and navigated through danger all on her own, never once feeling sorry for herself. 
But now, being wrapped up in Colby’s arms, all her pent–up emotions rushed to the surface like a tidal wave. 
She was scared 

that one day she might never see him again. 
“I’m here.” 
Colby’s deep voice was thick with emotion. 
He tried his best to stay composed, but seeing Sophie standing right in front of him made him tremble. 
This time, he had almost lost her. 
God knows how terrified he was when he found out at the engagement party that Sophie had been kidnapped. 
For over twenty years, he had seen life and death up close, thinking nothing in the world could scare him anymore, until Sophie came into his life. 
He was scared 
that one day he would lose her and never see her again. 
Noticing the scene, the maid quietly exited, making sure to close the d 
behind her. 
After what felt like an eternity, Sophie, still nestled in Colby’s embrace, whispered, “How long do you plan on holding me?” 
“I can never hold you enough.” Colby’s voice held a smile. “I want to hold you forever.” 

“Stop it.” 
Sophie gave Colby a playful punch on the chest, and after pulling away from his embrace, she finally saw how haggard he looked. 
She had thought she was the only one suffering in Summerfield, but seeing Colby’s state, he must have gone through a lot to bring her back to Devonport early. 
“Look at you, all scruffy.” Sophie touched Colby’s brow, then his stubble. “Who would believe you’re the intimidating Colby now?” 
Colby clasped Sophie’s hand, pretending to be troubled. “Rumor has it I have three heads and six arms, looking all fierce. I always thought I looked too refined; this is just right.” 
Sophie shot Colby a playful glare. “Nonsense! Now lie down, I’ll shave you.” “Alright.” 
Colby indulged her, lying on Sophie’s lap, closing his eyes, letting her shave his face with a razor. 
“Colby, this is pretty risky. What if I decide to take advantage and hurt you?” 
“I’m yours, to do with as you please.” 
Colby’s voice was light with laughter. He hadn’t had a good night’s sleep in days. Now, with Sophie by his side, he finally felt at peace. 
Sophie quickly finished shaving Colby and set the razor aside. “All done.” 
Colby opened his eyes to see Sophie’s smiling face. He sat up, wrapped his arms around her, and leaned in for a kiss. Their lips met in a tender, lingering kiss. 
Sophie’s cheeks reddened slightly. “I haven’t even taken a bath yet…” 
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Chapter 782 
Colby’s voice was low and husky. “Let me help my wife with her bath. 
Steam filled the bathroom as Colby gently placed Sophie into the bath