“I thought we were going out.”
“Change of plans. We’re staying in.” I bundle her in my arms and kiss the top of her head. “How bad is the pain? Do you need some medicine?”
“How did you know?” Her voice is muffled against my chest.
“Because I pay attention. Did you get some good rest?”
She nods. “Is it okay if I go take a shower? I feel so gross.”
“Why don’t I draw you a bath? You can soak while I finish getting everything together.”
“Are you sure you don’t mind?”
“Absolutely not. Let’s go.” Reaching down, I grasp behind her thighs and pick her up, wrapping her legs around my waist and walking us to the master bath. I sit her on the countertop and dig in the cabinets for the bath salts and bubble bath, then turn on the tub in the walk-in, getting everything together while she watches me.
Once the bath is ready, I walk back over to her. “Arms up.” She obeys and holds her arms in the air. I know she’s not feeling good because she doesn’t make a single comment about me undressing her. I rid her of her shirt, revealing only a pair of underwear underneath.
“My pants felt too tight,” she mumbles.
“Do you need to use the restroom?” She shakes her head as I help her stand, then push her underwear down to her feet. “Come on, time for a bath.” Picking her up again with my arm under her knees and behind her back, I carry her to the tub and slowly lower her into the water.
“Does that feel okay?”
“It’s perfect.” Taylor melts into the water, closing her eyes on a sigh.
“I’ll be right back.” I press a kiss to her forehead. She feels alittle clammy, but doesn’t feel like she has a fever. In the kitchen, I grab a can of Coke, some medicine, and a pack of crackers, placing them on a tray and taking them back to her.
Before I leave, she laces her fingers through mine and pulls me to a stop. “You’re too good to me. Thank you.” She kisses me softly.
“You deserve this and so much more. I’m just happy I’m the one who can give it to you. Take your time. Yell if you need me.”
“Okay.” She gives me a dreamy smile as her eyes fall closed, soaking in the comfort of the bath.
When Taylor emerges again, she’s dressed in baggy sweats and an oversized shirt, but she looks more alive than she did before. I’ve just finished setting up the movie projector with the help of the hotel’s event coordinator.
“This looks amazing,” Taylor says, walking out onto the terrace.
“Welcome to our very own drive-in theatre.” I wave my hands dramatically, showcasing the set up. I’ve moved the couch and bistro table out of the way and in its place is a massive pile of cushions, pillows, and blankets set up in front of the wall where the movie will be projected.
“I love it so much.”
“Are you hungry? I can start dinner whenever you’re ready.”
Taylor’s stomach grumbles, making us both laugh.
“I’ll take that as a yes. Do you want to sit out here or inside while I cook?”
“I can help.”
“No can do. Your only job tonight is to relax and enjoy.”
“I’ve been laying down a lot, so it would be good to sit up for a bit. I’ll watch you while you work.”
Holding the chair out at the island, I wait for her to sit down before kissing her forehead and moving to the other side. “It’s like you’re at your very own chef’s table.” I wink at her.
“Are you going to do some of those cool tricks while you work?”
“The only cool trick I’m going to do is not cut my finger off while multitasking.”
