Chapter 85
Tilda
My nose twitches. And my eyes open.
Sunlight fills the cabin.
The blankets are pulled up to my chin. I’m curled on my side. And I’m alone.
But the door is open, allowing a stream of fresh mountain air to breeze over me. And with it, the scent of coffee.
We’re getting rescued today. And I’m excited for running water and electricity. But being here… It’s been nice.
Relaxing even.
Minus the encounters with the mountain lion.
I smile against the pillow, remembering Ethan last night.
I have no idea what time it was when I woke up having to pee. But true to his word, he got up and walked me to the outhouse. And he stood outside the door, flashlight in hand, since I had the lantern, and he hummed. The “Happy Birthday” song.
My smile turns into a snicker.
It was so bad. And the most random song choice. But also incredibly sweet of him to oblige when I told him I couldn’t go with him listening.
And then after…
I swallow as my humor fades.
After, when we got back into bed…
I blink as I look at his empty side of the mattress.
It was like the other times. Us getting in on our sides. Moving together. Limbs tangling.
But last night, Ethan pulled me even closer. Our arms squished between our bodies. And… I loved it.
Loved the warmth.
Loved the feeling of being intertwined.
Loved sharing a pillow.
Loved falling asleep with his lips against my forehead.
I… I remind myself to enjoy the memory. That there’s no need to feel sad.
Just because we’re leaving today doesn’t mean I’ll never sleep in the same bed as Ethan again.
We are married after all.
Married.
Which is just another reminder of how good Ethan is.
Like just… good.
When I told him about the money and the will, he didn’t judge me. Didn’t want anything. Just told me he understood.
Ethan might act like a grump, but he’s a good man.
My Good Boy.
Heat creeps up my chest as more memories from last night come to mind. And that lightness from before returns.
No, last night was not the last time I’ll share a bed with Ethan.
This might be complicated. Absurd even. But the chemistry between us is real. And the scent of coffee reminds me that today is only just beginning.