She handled the house with ease. She cooked beautifully and filled the place with good food and a sense of order. Day by day, the stiffness between husband and wife gave way to trust and warmth.
A big part of that came from the fact that they both loved the same child. Eugene, true to his word, never pressured her or rushed anything. He was willing to wait as long as it took for Katie to come to him on her own terms.
What he didn’t realize was that his young wife had long since fallen for him and was secretly hoping he would stop being so careful. Meanwhile, her mother, Tammy, was admitted to an excellent medical center, where she finally got proper treatment. The results were remarkable: the pain in her joints eased, and she began walking again with only a cane for support.
She praised her son-in-law every chance she got, and Eugene couldn’t help but stand a little taller when she did. But Tammy, who had seen plenty in life, also understood exactly what was and wasn’t happening in the marriage.
One day, after Eugene had gone to the clinic and Sophie was outside playing, she decided to speak plainly. “Katie, tell me the truth. Do you not find that man attractive?”
“Have you really not noticed what kind of husband you landed?” Katie looked surprised. “What are you talking about? I know now you were right before the wedding.”
“I see how he cares for us. I know how lucky I am.” Tammy narrowed her eyes.
“Then how much longer are you planning to keep him at arm’s length? Don’t tell me I’m imagining things. That man looks at you like you hung the moon when you’re not paying attention.”
“A good man’s patience isn’t endless.” Katie blushed bright red.
“Mom, I want a real marriage too. I do. But I boxed myself in. I’m the one who told him not to push me, and now he’s honoring that like it’s written in stone.”
“And I’m too embarrassed to make the first move. I can’t exactly walk into his room and say, ‘Well then, let’s get on with it.’” Tammy smiled and shook her head.
“You two are something else. Making life harder than it needs to be. Here’s what’s going to happen.”
“Your wonderful husband found me a last-minute opening at a rehab spa to help finish my treatment. They say the mineral baths work wonders. I’m taking Sophie with me. She’ll enjoy the pool and the fresh air.”
“And while we’re gone, don’t waste the opportunity. By the time we get back, I expect this house to contain an actual married couple. Consider it your honeymoon.” Soon enough, Tammy and Sophie left for the health resort.
Eugene drove them to the station himself, got them settled, and made sure they had everything they needed. On the way home, he stopped at a florist for a large basket of roses, picked up a bottle of champagne, and bought fresh strawberries. He had decided to give Katie a proper romantic evening.
But when he stepped into the house, he stopped short. The scent of candles was in the air, but Katie was nowhere in sight. Quietly, he went to their bedroom to change—and froze.
There she was, curled up asleep on the bed. She was wearing a striking red dress with a neckline that flattered her figure beautifully. Her thick hair spilled across the pillow.
She looked so lovely it took his breath away. Eugene sat carefully on the edge of the bed and gently touched her bare shoulder…
