Chapter 143: Champions, Part 5

Michael

“What’s funny?” I ask.

“I've never seen you in PJs before.”

“I thought it was more appropriate right now; didn’t want you to feel pressured.”

“I don’t…. Michael, thank you.”

“For what?”

“For being here.”

I kiss her forehead. “Always.” She’s feeling better, but she looks awful. “Would you like me to run you a bath? You’ll feel better if you’re clean.”

“That would be nice.”

There’s no shortage of expensive oils and salts in the bathroom and I tip plenty in, making the water foamy and as much of a treat as possible.

“Want me to keep you company?”

“Mmm… I’d rather just be quiet and have a soak. Is that alright?”

“If you’re alright, yes, of course it is.”

Charlotte smiles through swollen eyes, patting my chest with her palm. I kiss her. “Try to relax.”

She does seem fairly calm, so I leave her with it, but stand the door ajar.

Downstairs, I pace, stare out of the windows, then pace again. Normally the sea calms me, but today….