84

LORENA

I headed downstairs, to the pool area where I told Ella to meet me. The moment I stepped outside, the cool September air hit my flushed face.

For a moment, I halted my step, closed my eyes, and listened to the stillness of the night while the air cooled my hot skin. If only I could freeze time and leave us in this cocoon.

It might not be a realistic cocoon, but it was better than the reality.

I opened my eyes and noted Ella already seated by the pool, waiting for me, her small frame sitting on the edge of the pool with her feet dangling off of it.

“Hey,” I greeted her and sat down next to her, mirroring her position.

Throwing me a side glance, she gave me a small smile. “You look like you tumbled through bedsheets with a certain husband of yours.” Her shoulder nudged me lightly, her tone teasing.

I rolled my eyes. “Didn’t you tell me to take advantage of the fact that I was under the same roof as him?”