Page 89 of A Simple Life

She kissed my finger resting on her cheek. “I love you.”

I winked. “Now, let’s go make some more great memories, darlin’.”

“I’d love to.”

The rest of the afternoon was a quandary. There were moments of laughter. Lots of smiles from Abby, but Quinn’s seemed forced at times. I caught her more than once looking upset, but when she would see me studying her, she forced a smile to her face and a lighthearted tone to her voice. Internally, I cursed running into her ex. He had spoiled what should have been a perfect day for Quinn. Secretly, I wished I’d had the chance for one good punch myself.

Instead, I was living vicariously through a child who had the satisfaction of throwing said punch.

The boat ride was wonderful, the sun and breeze refreshing, the views of the city spectacular. Quinn finally relaxed and seemed to be enjoying herself. We took turns pointing out different things to Abby, who, as usual, asked lots of questions.

I got her a gooey funnel cake, and we sat at a table, watching the city as it went by.

“Wow,” Quinn said in amazement, looking at the horizon. “Too many buildings.”

I chuckled. “Too many people.”

Quinn leaned her head on my shoulder. “I like our view better.”

I pressed a kiss to her head. “Me too.”

When the boat docked, we took a walk, then headed back to the hotel. Abby wanted a bubble bath, so Quinn filled the tub, adding bubbles, and left her happily singing a made-up song about her boat ride.

I watched Quinn for a few moments, curious. Something had been off since she and Abby had talked. I couldn’t put my finger on it, but Quinn was too quiet. I needed to know what had upset her. Did it have to do with the talk with Abby, or was the earlier incident still playing on repeat in her head?

She stood by the window, staring out at the skyline. I wrapped my arms around her. “Miss the city?”

“No.”

I buried my head into her neck. “Miss our little Richton?”

“Yes.”

“We’ll go home in the morning.”

“Good.”

“You okay?”

“I’m good,” she replied too quickly.

“Quinn…”

She turned in my arms, looking troubled.

“What is it?”

“Would you be upset if we didn’t go to dinner? If we stayed here and ordered in room service?”

“If you wanted to go home, I’d be okay with it. Whatever you want to do, Quinn. Today is your day. Whatever makes you happy.”

“You do. You make me happy.”

“Then why do you look so sad?”

She hesitated, and I took her hands. “I thought we were past you hiding from me.”

She looked down at our joined fingers. A tear splashing on my skin made me hold them tighter.