Yet, three years of silence, coupled with significant age disparities and differing social circles, had erected barriers.
Their sole mutual interest appeared to be their discussions about children.
After a brief exchange, Ceciliaâs smile waned.
In a subdued tone, she requested, âWhen you see Miss Holt next, could you apologize on my behalf? I wasnât at my best earlier.
â
âItâs on me,â Mark interjected, playfully pinching Ceciliaâs cheek.
âIâll extend your apologies.
â
An ensuing silence enveloped Mark and Cecilia, their gazes locked.
In the past, their connection was primarily physical, a fervent urgency underpinning their interactions, leaving little room for verbal communication.
Now, a palpable estrangement lingered.
As the night deepened, Mark proposed, âStay here.
I have more to share.
â
Cecilia harbored no illusions.
Their history was marked by intimacy and a shared life; pretense was unnecessary when he suggested they converse in bed.
While Mark attended to the dishes, Cecilia opted for a shower.
Subsequently, she found solace by the window, initiating a call home, received by Juliette.
Ceciliaâs voice was faint, a stark contrast to the impulsive boldness of her youth.
After a brief conversation, she ended the call, her gaze falling upon Mark.
A sudden unease overtook her.
It felt as though she was with a man for the first time, nervously adjusting her crimson silk bathrobe.
âYou Look stunning,â Mark complimented softly.
A blush crept across Ceciliaâs cheeks.
He smiled, retreating to the bathroom.
Soon, the sound of running water filled the silence.
Cecilia contemplated waiting on the sofa but eventually decided the bed was more appropriate.
Frustrated with her own timidity, she reasoned they were just going to share a bed, after all.
She chastised herself before climbing into bed.
Clutching a pillow, she pressed her face against it, her shyness persisting.
Emerging from a steam-filled bathroom, Markâs slightly chilled body joined her.