The night was hazy, filled with the chirping of summer cicadas.
In the bathroom, a few drops of essential oil were added to the hot water filling the tub.
The oil was a special blend developed by Kendal Ellsworth, known for its soothing and sleep-inducing properties.
So much had happened in the last two days. Now that she could finally relax, a wave of exhaustion washed over her.
A long soak in the tub eased the tension from her body.
The bathroom door opened, and the woman emerged in a bathrobe, her hair wrapped in a towel.
She sat down at her vanity, about to apply her skincare, when there was a knock on the door.
Briony paused. “It’s not locked.”
The door opened, and Stewart walked in carrying a tray.
On the tray was a glass of milk.
“I warmed some milk for you.”
Briony watched him in the mirror.
They were two adults who knew the score, a former couple just reunited. They both knew the real reason for the glass of milk.
Briony’s gaze fell on Stewart’s bandaged finger, and she couldn’t help but smile.
“Stewart, give it a rest.”
Stewart showed no embarrassment at being caught. Instead, he grinned, seeing that she wasn’t annoyed. This emboldened him.
He walked over, placed the tray on the vanity, and then turned back to close the door.
With a click, the lock engaged.
Briony raised a delicate eyebrow. “Stewart, I don’t remember saying you could stay.”
The man came to stand behind her, resting his hands on her shoulders.
Briony didn’t flinch. Fresh from the bath, her skin glowed rosy pink from head to toe, and her beautiful eyes sparkled with moisture.
She was the very picture of a freshly bloomed rose.
The sight made a fire stir within him.
He slowly leaned down, his face close to hers, his long, narrow eyes meeting hers in the mirror.
His voice was low and raspy. “Bryn, don’t overthink it. I just lock doors out of habit.”
Briony was silent.
Stubborn man.
She pursed her lips, deciding not to call him out on his little game.
In fact, a part of her was curious.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Regretting the Wife He Threw Away