Page 34 of With Love

“Good morning, everyone!” she starts, a chipper tone in her voice. “Mmm, that smells so good.”

“Thank you! Please, come and have a seat. I’ll grab you some coffee.”

“Well, you’re very attentive, aren’t you?” Owen starts. “Getting everyone their coffee, making them breakfast.”

Adrienne shoots him a confused look.

“I enjoy it. It gives me purpose. Helps me maintain some control. That’s something that we’ve been working on since I got here. Physical and mental therapy. Right?” she turns to face Lucy. Owen can’t see her face, but I can. She is imploring Lucy to help her explain to Owen what is happening here.

“Right!” Lucy jumps in, never missing a beat. “Good mental health is necessary in order to obtain stronger physical health.”

“Well, it’s good that you have such a great nurse, then.” I want to punch the shit-eating grin from his face so bad it hurts.

“Lucy, do you think that we can get a little self-defense training in today? I want to show-off my moves to Owen. Maybe show him a thing or two.” Adrienne says, turning to Owen and sticking her tongue out at him.

“I think we can make that happen. I want you to start with a little walking outside though. Get your heart rate up a bit. And we need to measure your breathing again. It’s been a few days.”

Adrienne turns so no one can see her face before she answers. She thinks I don’t know that she is rolling her eyes, but I do. It brings a smile to my face.

“Okay, sounds great. I am going to go get ready and I will be back down in 10. Owen, Marshall, are you guys coming with me?”

“I need to stay back and take care of a little work, but you guys go ahead and enjoy yourselves.”

“I’ll go,” Owen speaks up. “I could use a little fresh air.”

“Great! I can’t wait to show you the gorgeous scenery! You’re going to love it.”

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