Page 395 of Saving Forever with the Hockey Captain

"I've had excellent motivation lately."

The last button slips free.

For just a second, neither of us moves.

Then she turns slowly to face me.

“Thank you.”

I brush a loose curl away from her face.

“I didn't do much.”

“You did.”

Her eyes soften. “You've been taking care of me all day.”

I was under the impression that was part of the job description.”

"For husbands?"

"For this husband."

She reaches up and loosens my tie. "I think wives have duties too."

"Oh?"

"I believe so."

With practiced fingers she slides the knot down until my tie hangs loose around my neck.

"There."

"I can breathe again."

"You looked very handsome."

"Past tense?"

She laughs. "You still do."

One by one she slips my cuff links free, setting them carefully on the table.

My jacket follows. Then my tie drops. She smooths the front of my shirt with both hands.

Neither of us kisses the other. Not yet.

We simply stand there, breathing the same quiet air.

No hurry. No expectations. No audience.

Just a husband...and his wife.

Finally, Annette glances toward the hallway.

"I should probably rescue this dress before gravity wins."

"I'll be right here."