章 119: Chapter 119: Penitents, Part 14

Michael

Sitting out in the sun, I try to relax and enjoy the tranquillity of this lovely spot, breathing warm and fragrant air, watching wading birds exploring the sea’s edge, moving like clockwork toys.

The sun is hot, my shoulders growing warm….

… Time to cover up….

I head for my room, next door to the main bedchamber that has become Charlotte’s private space. As I pass the door, standing a little ajar, there are sounds….

…. I pause, listening….

…. and hear their murmured talk. Pushing the door a little further open, I stand quietly…

They don’t see me, but James knows I am likely to be close by.

…. “Charlotte? You want me to….?

…. “Yes. We can start over, start again.”

She wants to make love?

My thoughts awhirl, I lean back against the wall, breathing deeply. If she wants to make love with James, then surely, she will want me too….?

…. surely?

Aware that I’m missing the conversation, I abandon my speculations to concentrate on listening….