“This place is just like I imagined it would be,” she says, almost to herself. “Impressive, but still cozy. Familiar.”
And then she turns to face me, something shifting in her eyes. The softness giving way to caution.
“What’s the plan, Dorian?”
It isn’t sharp. Just clear. A reminder that she hasn’t forgotten who we were. Or what we have to face.
I step closer.
“There’s no plan,” I say quietly. “Not really. There are things we need to talk about—things from the past that still need to be faced. I know that.”
I pause, holding her gaze.
“But for now… let’s just be here. In this moment. No pressure. No expectations.”
She studies me for a long second, like she’s trying to decide if it’s safe to believe me. I can see it in her eyes—she’s searching for the catch, for hidden strings.
But there aren’t any.
“I need a shower,” she says finally. “And to get out of these clothes.”
“I’ll take your bag upstairs,” I offer, lifting it and heading toward the master bedroom. “Take your time. Rest if you feel like it.” I say as she follows me.
“Thank you,” she murmurs.
I place the bag gently by the bed, then pause in the doorway before turning back.
“I’ll make some pasta later,” I mention casually.
That makes her turn. “You’ll make pasta?”
I smirk. “There’s one recipe I know—and I happen to master it to perfection.”
That earns me a real smile. Unfiltered. Bright.
“Well, now I’m definitely curious.”
I smile back and let her explore the place on her own pace.
Back downstairs, I check my phone. David.
I step onto the deck and call him.
“Where the hell are you?” he snaps. “I thought you died or something when you didn’t show up this morning.”
“Lake Geneva,” I respond. “With Della.”
“You kidnapped her now?”
“She came willingly. Well, semi-willingly. But it’s fine. We’re not arguing. We’re... figuring out how to breathe in the same space again.”
David exhales. “Just don’t blow it. And, Dorian don’t rush her.”
“I know. Trust me, I’m not rushing anything.”
“Alright. Good luck. And text me tomorrow if you survive the night.”
“Thanks, Dave” I say dryly, and hang up.
