Michael
“What’s funny?” I ask.
“I've never seen you in PJs before.”
“I thought it was more appropriate right now; didn’t want you to feel pressured.”
“I don’t…. Michael, thank you.”
“For what?”
“For being here.”
I kiss her forehead. “Always.” She’s feeling better, but she looks awful. “Would you like me to run you a bath? You’ll feel better if you’re clean.”
“That would be nice.”
There’s no shortage of expensive oils and salts in the bathroom and I tip plenty in, making the water foamy and as much of a treat as possible.
“Want me to keep you company?”
“Mmm… I’d rather just be quiet and have a soak. Is that alright?”
“If you’re alright, yes, of course it is.”
Charlotte smiles through swollen eyes, patting my chest with her palm. I kiss her. “Try to relax.”
She does seem fairly calm, so I leave her with it, but stand the door ajar.
Downstairs, I pace, stare out of the windows, then pace again. Normally the sea calms me, but today….