Edith’s thoughts drifted in the haze of exhaustion.

Shouldn’t she be the one feeling jealous?

Why did it seem like Justin was the one getting possessive inow/i?

When Edith didn’t respond, Justin pressed a little harder, his lips grazing her earlobe with a hint more insistence.

It was a warning, in its own way.

Edith caught the message and hurried to answer, her voice flustered. “I… I understand.”

A satisfied smile curled at the corners of Justin’s mouth.

Water sshed over the edge of the bathtub, and beyond the tall windows, two silhouettes tangled together in the morning light.

The next day.

Edith slept so deeply, the sun was already high in the sky when she finally stirred. Disoriented, she rolled over, reaching for the other side of the bed–only to find it empty.

From the study, she could faintly hear Justin’s voice, deep and calm, as he spoke in an online meeting.

He’d been especially busytely. And she, for some reason, had never felt sleepier.

A nce at her phone told her it was already noon.

How had she managed to sleep sote?

By the time she got out of bed, her stomach was growling. She needed to get something to eat.

Determined not to repeat yesterday’s awkward interruption, Edith padded

b16:37 /b

over and knocked softly at the study door.

Justin came to the door almost immediately.

Through the narrow gap, Edith caught a glimpse of the meeting on his screen–several high–level executives, all looking as serious as ever.

Guilt pricked at her; she hated to disturb him at a time like this.

She kept her voice as quiet as possible. “I’m just heading iout /ito grab a

bite.”

She tried to slip away, but Justin caught her hand before she could leave. “Wait for me–just one minute,” he murmured.

He turned back to hisputer, his tone unhurried and authoritative. “Sorry, everyone. I need to have lunch with my wife. I’ll be back in Northcrest this afternoon–we can continue in person.”

Edith couldn’t help but blush with embarrassment.

The way he said it made her feel a little self–conscious, as though she was the reason he’d dropped everything for lunch.

Justin emerged from the study, already asking, “How about trying that seafood ce in Southborough? It’s supposed to be pretty famous.”

It made sense–if they were visiting, he wanted her to sample the local specialties.

But just the thought of seafood turned Edith’s stomach. Her face went a little pale.

Justin frowned, concern etching his brow. “Still feeling unwell? Should we postpone our trip back to Northcrest for a couple more days?”

Edith waved her hands quickly. “No, really, I’m fine. Just the idea of seafood makes me a bit queasy. I’ll eat something simple–just enough to fill me up.”

If they dyed their return any longer, she worried people would start gossiping–saying Justin’s wife was spoiled and clingy, always

212

b16:37 /b

demanding his attention.

Justin still looked worried. “Once we’re back in Northcrest, I’ll take you to see a doctor.”

Edith followed him out of the suite, grumbling under her breath, “It’s nothing, really. No need to see a doctor over this.”

In the elevator, Justin stood tall and straight, his tailored suit pressed to perfection–a necessity for today’s video conference. He looked every bit the part: sculpted, serious, imposing.

He nced at her, his tone resolute. “Anything that concerns you is never

a small matter.”

Justin was always so direct.

Edith thought, maybe it was just the way he’d grown up. People in positions of power always seemed free to speak their minds.

The hotel, reserved by the Hawksley family, served its meals buffet–style.

Edith piled her te with tart, refreshing foods, while Justin eyed her choices with a sharp, discerning look. “I thought you preferred sweet things?”

She shrugged as they sat down/“Maybe it’s just the weather here–hot

and humid.”

But then she paused, realization dawning. “Wait, how do you know I like sweets and not sour things?”

2??