Homecoming

Chapter 27

From the moment Maximilian changed or at least sought to change, I realized that in addition to his face and sexy body, which he liked to admire, I enjoyed every moment I spent with him immensely. I was fine with him because he was funny, nice, you often teased me, but I still had no idea where our friendship was headed and whether I personally was ready for a new relationship.

It seemed to me that Max liked me too, but at the same time I felt guilty that he just didn't have much choice. I took care not only of him, but especially of his children, who adored me.

I was lying outside on the terrace on our large upholstered lounger, enjoying a peaceful and quiet evening. There was a pleasant breeze and the air could smell the sea. I rested calmly with my eyes closed and listened to the soft rustle of the waves.

Max had just returned from an evening run a few minutes ago and was now taking a shower. The boys were at a tent organized by the hotel complex, which also included our bungalow. So it seemed like Max and I were supposed to spend the night alone. I finally had it just for myself and it made me a little nervous, but also distracting me. I wasn't sure if I wanted to move on so fast.

"Why did you actually have them camped at the hotel?" I asked him when he appeared on the terrace dressed only in a bathrobe. And only God knew if he had anything under him but naked skin. "If they wanted to sleep under the bare sky, then why not here at the villa or on our beach?"

"I thought you would appreciate privacy more," he said.

"Depending on where you're going," she smiled.

"You know where I'm going," he leaned over and kissed me tenderly.

"You're right," I said, returning the kiss.

"I'll be right back," he pulled away, disappearing behind the French door.

I felt full of energy, but it was still a weak word. I felt uplifted. I haven't felt so happy in months, and I owe it to my relationship with Max. He and his children turned my life upside down, but I wouldn't exchange for anything in the world with others.

"Champagne?" I smirked when he returned. "What are we celebrating?" I asked when I noticed that he had exchanged a comfortable bathrobe for a short-sleeved shirt and pants.

"And must there be a reason for that?" he smiled broadly.

I adored the warmth of his smile as he looked at me and also the glow in his eyes.

"Champagne is not just drunk to quench your thirst," I said.

"You'll get used to it," he replied, shrugging innocently.

I doubt it. Immediately my mind flashed, but I kept it to myself.

I watched him tear off the foil on the bottle, turn the wire basket around, and easily pull out the stopper, which he set aside. He smiled at me once more and poured golden bubbles into our glasses.

"For us and for many such nice moments together," he handed me a cup and drank with me.

"On us," I repeated. It sounded nice.

"How are you?" he asked me and sat down next to me with his feet along mine.

"Pleasant, happy and extremely calm," I said from my glass and swallowed. "I haven't felt this way in a long time."

"I believe, too," he smiled and clasped my palm in his. "And I owe you all for that."

"To me?" I looked at him over the rim of my glass and wrinkled my nose. "I really didn't do anything."

"You restored my zest for life," he replied honestly.

"Me too, actually all three," I corrected myself.