Chapter 58
Ben, April 18
“Are you…is that…” I can’t even form the words.
“Yes, and it’s cold. Can I please come in?”
It’s her. Standing in the early morning chill. I step aside immediately. “Yes, of course. Come in.” I take her luggage, grateful to have something familiar to handle. “What are you doing here?”
“I was in the neighborhood.” She laughs lightly, and it’s like sunlight breaking through clouds. That single sound carries all her happiness, all her ease. “Just kidding, geez, smile a little.” She nudges me with her foot. “I just needed to see you. How are you?”
The absurdity hits me all at once. I can’t help it—I laugh. Not a polite laugh, but a full, deep laugh from the toes up. My eyes water, my sides ache. When I finally regain control, she’s sitting on my couch, eyes alight, watching me like I’ve completely lost my mind. Maybe I have.
“Feel better?” she asks, calm, composed, as if she’s been expecting this reaction.
“Much.” I chuckle softly, wiping my eyes. “So… Liz, what are you really doing in England?” I settle on the coffee table across from her and, for the first time, notice the bare left hand—no ring.
“I needed a change of scenery for a while. Something was missing, and I needed to sort it all out before…” She trails off, but the gentle rubbing of her belly makes the rest obvious.
“It’s been a long time,” I mutter. Obviously, I’m a wanker.
“Yes, and I’m sure we’re both very different people now. I just…” Her voice fades, unsure.
I glance down at her belly, then at myself, realizing I’m still in a towel. Embarrassment shoots through me. “I’m going to get dressed. Can I get you anything while I’m up?”
“Coffee?”
“Tea?” I offer.
“Perfect.” She smiles, and it’s the sort of smile that makes the entire flat feel warm.