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“Where are we going?” I ask as he carries me out of the room

Undeterred by our lack of clothes, he makes his way to the closest bathroom, which is the one by the pool Fortunately, we don’t run into anyone on our way

His aftercare is gentle He washesme dry with a soft towel When we’re both wrapped in fluffy robes, he carries me to his bedroom and puts me to bed with an instruction to rest while he fetches dinner

I can’t stand it I can’t stand the uncertainty Against ment, I open my

“Alex?”

He stops in the frame and turns to look at me

I brace myself for humiliation “Do you—”

The phone rings shrilly on the nightstand

Frowning, he walks over and lifts the receiver “Yes?” His voice carries a hint of irritability

His frown deepens as he listens After a moment, he says with a clenched jaw, “I see”

He lifts his gaze fleetingly tohis back to ht voice, “That won’t be necessary I’er at the office I’ll call you back in five minutes” The phone makes a click as he returns the cordless receiver to the base

I clutch the blanket to ht?”

When he faces ain, his expression is schooled, but the worry lines are still visible around his eyes “There’s been a coht on theme”

A stone drops in my stomach “I’m sorry”

He gives et dinner, but I won’t be joining you I have to deal with this”

I swing et the dinner”

“No,” he says in a co tone Softer, he adds, “Stay in bed, my love You need to rest”

“Is there anything I can do?” I ask, the lethargic effect of s a fresh wave of tension

“No, but thanks” He checks his watch “You wanted to ask ”

I pull upimportant”