“I don’t suppose we can use the restocking towels excuse?”
Her laughter melted away but her smile remained. She was watching me with sleepy eyes and bed head.
“You’re beautiful,” I said.
She flushed and looked down. “I’m happy,” she said. “I feel lighter this morning. I don’t know.” She glanced to the window.
“Good.” I pulled her close to kiss her, but she held up a hand between our faces.
“Gah, sorry about my breath.”
“Since when does that matter?” I cocked an eyebrow at her blushing.
“Since I didn’t wake up an hour before you and have time to brush my teeth. I’ll be right back.”
I stretched in bed as Collette walked in. “I’m trying to watch my show but this keeps ringing.”
“Oh, boo.” I reached for my work phone Collette handed me.
“Keep it short,” the little girl demanded.
“Yes, your highness.”
Frankie was dressed and back in the room as I ended the call. Collette snatched my business phone back and dashed out of the room.
I looked up at Frankie, and she watched me tentatively. “Who was that?”
“Agent.” I winced. “I have to be back in LA today. I’m sorry. The other lead dropped and they want me to do some last-minute screen tests with the new actress, test our chemistry. I’m so sorry.”
She took a deep breath and came to sit on the bed. “Okay.” She held my gaze.
“Okay?”
“Yes. You have to go. We’ll be fine. School starts Monday. The book is almost done.” She lifted her chin, nodding. “Actually, no offense but it would probably be best for my productivity if you weren’t here.”
I leaned forward and kissed her forehead. “You have got this. And hopefully, it will go fast.”
She kissed me back.
“I will miss you,” she said.
I grabbed her tight. “God, I’ll miss you too. And I will be back just as soon as possible. Everything will be okay.”
She nodded against me, tension back in her shoulders.
