“What? It’s only ten –”
“Yes, but I’m sooo tired,” she stated, walking over to where he stood and giving him the look. It was one Ian knew well.
“Okay,” he stated as he put the last dish in and set the washer. “I guess we’re going to bed. Night guys.”
He and Kate headed towards the bedroom, while Penny and Mike watched silently as the door closed behind them.
Penny reacted first.
“She isn’t very subtle is she?”
Mike chuckled. “Not at all,” he replied, his eyes settling on her face. His arm was around her back, resting on the seat of what he’d dubbed her favourite chair, as they poured over photos of her and Kate as children.
“Should I go?” The question was loaded and he knew it. If she wanted him to leave he would, but something in the way she looked at him told him she didn’t.
“No,” was the gentle response that was interrupted with a demure smile. “I’d like it if you stayed.”
“Then I’ll stay.”
It may have been only seconds that their eyes were engaged, but in those moments, with those words spoken, Mike sensed that there was more in her invitation than simply a few extra minutes. It was an invitation into her life. An invitation he’d gladly accept.
“Can I get you another glass of wine?”
“Sure.”
He grabbed her glass and his and made his way to the kitchen to pour them another round. It was a fine merlot, medium bodied – a good year.
As he poured he watched Penny. She’d risen from the floor and stood by the tree, admiring the decorations. He couldn’t help but think that she looked liked she belonged there. She shouldn’t be going back to London. She belonged in a place like this, having Christmases like this with friends who loved her. She’d been closed-off for so long. He wanted to see her bloom.
“A toast?” He placed a glass in Penny’s hand.
“To what?”
“To the end of misunderstandings…and to getting to know each other better.”
His eyes sought out the willingness in hers and found it.
“To getting to know each other.”
