Chapter 20: Building Bridges

The weeks following her heart-to-heart with Eleanor were a turning point for Alice. Armed with a deeper understanding of Elliot's struggles, she felt a renewed sense of determination to bridge the gap that had formed between them. Every night, she noticed the remnants of his nightmares in the way he tossed and turned, the pained expressions crossing his face even in sleep.

Determined to help him, Alice began devising a plan. One evening, she approached him as he worked late in his office, the dim light casting shadows across his sharply defined features.

"Elliot," she said softly, entering the room. He looked up from his laptop, surprise flickering across his face.

"Alice," he replied, a hint of weariness in his voice. "What's up?"

She took a deep breath, steadying her nerves. "I've been thinking about us—about everything you've been through. I want to help you, but I don't want to push you. Can we talk?"

He hesitated, glancing back at his screen, then nodded. "Sure, let's talk."

They settled onto the couch in the corner of the room, the air thick with unspoken feelings. "I know you're struggling, and I want to be there for you," Alice began, her voice steady. "I want to understand your pain, even if I can't fully grasp it."

Elliot's expression softened, though a flicker of apprehension danced in his eyes. "I appreciate that, Alice. But it's not easy for me to talk about. I don't want to burden you with my past."

"Elliot," she said firmly, "you're not a burden. I married you, and I want to be a part of your life, all of it. We're in this together, remember?"

He ran a hand through his hair, a gesture she recognized as a sign of his inner turmoil. "You don't know what it's like to live with this every day," he said quietly. "I don't want you to see me as weak."

Alice scooted closer, their knees almost touching. "I don't see you as weak. I see someone who's been through hell and is trying to fight their way back. And if you let me in, we can tackle this together."

Elliot studied her for a moment, searching for the sincerity in her gaze. Finally, he let out a long, shaky breath. "I'll try," he said. "But it won't be easy."

"Nothing worthwhile ever is," she replied, her heart swelling with hope. "How about we start by finding a way to create a safe space for you—something where you can talk about what you feel, or even just a distraction?"

A flicker of interest crossed Elliot's face. "What do you have in mind?"

"Let's take some time off together," Alice suggested, her eyes lighting up with excitement. "We could go on a weekend trip—just the two of us. No business, no pressure. Just a chance for you to breathe and relax."

Elliot raised an eyebrow, considering her proposal. "Where would we go?"

"Somewhere peaceful," Alice said, her mind racing with possibilities. "Maybe a cabin in the mountains or a beachside cottage. Somewhere away from everything."

He looked skeptical but intrigued. "You think that would help?"

"I believe it could be a step in the right direction," she replied, her voice full of conviction. "We can spend time together, talk, or just enjoy the quiet. Whatever you need."

Elliot mulled it over, his expression contemplative. "All right. Let's do it."

A smile broke across Alice's face, and she could feel the weight lift slightly from his shoulders. "Great! I'll take care of all the arrangements. You just focus on being you."

As the days passed, Alice poured herself into planning the getaway. She researched cabins nestled deep in the woods, picturesque seaside cottages, and quiet spots away from prying eyes. She wanted this to be a healing experience for both of them.

When the weekend finally arrived, Alice felt a sense of excitement bubbling within her. They packed their bags, and Elliot's initial apprehension began to melt away as they drove away from the city, leaving the hustle and bustle behind.

The cabin they arrived at was perfect—tucked away in a serene forest, surrounded by towering trees and the sounds of nature. Alice could see Elliot's tension begin to ease as they stepped inside, the cozy interior welcoming them.

"This place is amazing," he said, glancing around. "You really outdid yourself."

"I thought you'd like it," Alice replied, her heart swelling with pride. "We can do whatever you want this weekend. There are hiking trails, a fireplace, and a hot tub outside."

"Sounds perfect," Elliot said, a hint of a smile gracing his lips.

As the sun began to set, they settled in front of the fireplace, warmth enveloping them. Alice prepared a simple dinner, and they ate together, the atmosphere relaxed and easy.

"So, what do you want to do first?" Alice asked after dinner, leaning back on the couch.

"I don't know," he admitted, gazing into the flickering flames. "Maybe just… talk?"

Alice nodded eagerly. "Let's do it."

For the first time, they opened up to each other without the constraints of their previous lives weighing them down. Elliot shared memories of his childhood, his struggles with self-image, and how he felt during his captivity. Alice listened intently, her heart aching for the boy who had been trapped in a nightmare.

As the night wore on, Elliot's walls began to crumble. They laughed, shared secrets, and slowly transformed the space between them into one of understanding and acceptance. Alice felt a shift in Elliot—a gradual opening of his heart, and she was grateful for every moment.

When bedtime approached, Alice felt a mix of nervousness and excitement. She wanted to share a bed with him, but not in a way that rushed intimacy. Instead, she wanted it to be a step towards closeness, a chance for them to feel comfortable together.

As they climbed into bed, the warmth of the blankets cocooned them. Elliot turned on his side, facing her, his expression softer than she had seen in a long time.

"Thank you for today," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "I didn't know I needed this."

"I'm just glad you're here with me," Alice replied, her heart full. "We can take things slow. No pressure."

With that, they drifted into a peaceful sleep, the comfort of each other's presence easing their minds, allowing them to escape the weight of their pasts—if only for a moment.

As dawn broke, Alice awoke to the soft light streaming through the window. She turned to see Elliot still asleep, a peaceful expression on his face. It was a sight she cherished, and she felt a deep sense of gratitude for their journey together.

Their weekend had just begun, and Alice was determined to help Elliot heal, one day at a time. Together, they would build a bridge over the troubled waters that lay between them and create a life worth living.