Chapter Hundred And Ninety Seven

The gentle morning breeze carried the sweet smell of damp earth and blooming flowers through the open window. Birds outside were singing their cheerful morning songs. Suzy stirred in her sleep, breathing in the pleasant air. She turned in the large bed, reaching out for Ryan, but the space beside her was cool and empty.

Her eyes opened quickly. She sat up, pushing her tangled curls away from her face. A small knot of worry formed in her stomach for just a moment before she saw him. Ryan was sitting in the sturdy wooden chair near the window, already dressed in clean trousers and a soft t-shirt which was opened. He was carefully removing the cotton cloth wrapped around his waist.