“My boss informed me today that the school has approved a new award to be given out to the most improved swimmer.It comes with a generous bursary.”
“That’s great, Master.”
“At first they wanted to name it after me, but I asked for them to name it after Coach.”
“What an honour that is!”Ella’s eyes glowed, she leaned in, her lips pressing against his with a suddenness that startled him.
The warmth of her kiss burned through him, sharp and fast.
Her excitement and joy at something for him only made his stomach sour more.
“Yes, it is an honour, and there’s an award ceremony.”Zee shifted, so he was looking at Ella straight on because he would not look away from seeing the impact of his words.
“Next Friday.”
And just like a light going out, her expression went from happiness to furrowed brows.
She glanced down, a length of red hair curtaining her face, and he knew she was struggling for composure.
“I’m sorry.You know I need you at my side.Everyone is going to be there.They invited Nico and Roger.”Zee swallowed.
His old rivals coming looked better for the school than it meant anything to him but it was a nice touch.“Sportswriters from around the world, a lot of press.I’m going to call Coach and tell him.”
He rubbed a circle on her back, wanting to soothe her.“Dear heart, look at me.”
He held his breath, waiting.Ella always obeyed him, but he noted it was a pause before her wide eyes met his.“I am sorry you can’t be there in person to hear Annie play and support her.She knows you love her.You can watch the stream.”
“Okay,” Ella nodded, her voice a whisper that pierced his heart.
“I know you’re upset.Do you want to talk about it?”Zee stroked her silky hair.
“Not right now, Sir.I have to get dinner out of the oven.”She went to move off his lap, and he held her for a moment longer.
“Maybe the event tonight will raise your spirits.”
“With your permission, I’d like to skip this evening’s event.I’m tired.At least we didn’t tell the girls yet, so I’m not disappointing them.”
She glanced away, fidgeted with her hem.
“I hate disappointing you, Ella.”
“I know, Master.”Her eyes met his, with that sheen of unshed tears, and he hated he was asking her to give something up for him.
This award ceremony was important.
He needed his wife on his arm, and there was no changing it.
But he’d give her the space she asked for.
“Let’s eat and then I’ll leave you to music.”
“Okay,” Ella slid off his lap, striding into the kitchen.
She took the food out of the oven, the plates down, and started serving his dinner.
Watching her flow through this daily ritual usually was a source of pride, but right here, knowing he broke her heart, her little acts of submission were like a knife’s edge cutting him open.
***
