Brendan knocked and entered through the adjoining suite door and Cassie quickly wiped away her tears.

“It’s late, sweetheart.” His words echoed her mother’s but from him she felt only caring and concern and not the empty hollow feeling she had when speaking to her mother.

“I know. Time for bed.” Cassie smiled wanly and went to her small bathroom / closet / dressing area to slip out of her clothes. She pulled on the long sleeved flannel nightie (ooh sexy!) and folded her clothes neatly, adding her purple hoodie and a white tank top to the pile to wear in the morning.

Brendan watched her and she saw him catch glints from her ring. She smiled and wriggled her fingers at him. He grinned back and held out his arms to her. She allowed herself to be enfolded in his warmth and strength.

After a few stolen kisses and sweet moments, Cassie fell into a deep sleep. Brendan lay watching her through the night.