Page 19 of The Retreat

Colin laughs. “It’s your wedding gift to me. Do you like it?”

“I thought it was my job to pick out my gift to you.” I turn my head to look at him, and he grins.

“I’m trying to earn that kiss.”

“And how would spending my money earn you a kiss?” Our banter is light. I don’t spend money, so I don’t care.

“By making your life easier, Hus-bear.”

I roll my eyes.

He reaches across the space, putting his hand on my thigh. “Want to grab some lunch?”

I don’t pull away from the touch. It is comfortable and comforting. Almost like Oliver’s but different. “Sure. Sushi?”

“Mmmhmm. Where?”

“Park at my apartment. It’s easier to walk.”

“Sounds good.” He navigates the streets with ease. A rare trait in trust fund kids.

“Do you drive a lot?”

“A fair amount until my parents took my car.”

“Why didn’t you buy yourself another one?” I raise a brow, figuring he has to have a trust fund.

“My parents cut me off.”

I stare. “What?”

“It’s a long story—I don’t really want to get into it.” For the first time, I see Colin’s light dim.

“Okay.” Maybe I should press. But I don’t want him to feel like he has to tell me. “I guess I’m the best husband, then.”

His smirk returns. “That means I can keep the car?”

“You said you bought it? Did you think I was going to make you return it?”

“This is just a test drive.” Colin puts on the sweetest face. “Please, daddy.”

I playfully reach across the console to slap his cheek. “Don’t call me that.”

“Anything you say, daddy.” He winks.

We park in the underground garage and stroll side-by-side in the surprisingly cool summer day. Clouds float by, making most of the walk shady, and my mother still hasn’t called. I open the door for Colin, and his brows shoot up.

“What a gentleman.” I can’t tell if he’s putting on an act or if he’s being playful.

All of this would be a whole lot easier if I understood normal human reactions. Something comes over me as we get to our table, and I want to see if I can spur another reaction out of him, so I pull out his chair.

It’s even better than opening the door. He blooms like a flower, lighting up the entire room. I help him scoot in and then take my seat across from him.

“When is your brother flying back?” Colin asks after we order drinks.

“Don’t you know?”

“Isaac is being cagey about it. I can’t get a straight answer.” He picks up his napkin and puts it on his lap.

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