Tantrum

Ch. 16 Impatience

*** Spencer's POV ***

Had I spent time researching romantic getaways once Gwen agreed to come on my birthday trip with me?

Yes.

Had I gambled with the treehouse resort, especially when Moe relayed Gwen's hatred of camping?

Yep.

Was it paying off?

Remains to be seen, but after scoping out the master suite, fully stocked kitchen, and hottub overlooking the changing colors of the tree canopy below, the look of awe on Gwen's face hinted that we were headed in the right direction.

"I never knew things like this existed so close to home." She murmurs, leaning on the balcony. "How much did this cost you?"

"Enough." I dodge her question. For a regular family unit, the place is affordable. But I upgraded, knowing the importance of this trip in making a lasting impression on our relationship.

She crosses her arms over her chest and leans back against the railing. I smile innocently and move to cage her in. She doesn't break character, staring up at me with questions in her eyes.

"That's not for you to worry about. I wanted us to have a nice break from everything so we could spend some time focusing on just the two of us." I explain.

"Maybe I want to know so I can bring the boys here sometime." She counters.

"We'll pick up a brochure on the way out." I continue to evade, leaning my head down and pressing a kiss to the soft skin below her ear.

"You shouldn't be splurging just to impress me. I know how much you make." She grumbles.

I stop kissing her and guide her face to look at me. "Don't assume this is all for you, sweetheart. Maybe I splurged to treat myself."

"So you'll let me share the costs?"

"Nice try. You can plan and pay for our next trip if you want." I offer.

"You're optimistic that you'll want another trip together." She muses.

I pinch her chin to ensure she listens to me. Her big eyes blink up at me. "I want to spend as much time as I can get with you, Gwen. You make my darkest days brighter."

She blushes adorably. I can't help but lean in and press my lips to each of the apples of her cheeks. I hover over her lips, our foreheads pressed together in connection. "I never thought someone who saw me in my lowest moments would ever say that about me."

"Moments come and go. I saw the person that you are, Gwen. You came through despite the circumstances." I remind her.

"Not very gracefully." She sighs with a shuddering laugh.

"You need to give yourself some grace. See yourself as we see you. The boys, your mom, me. We all see your charisma, your strength but also your limits. You're allowed to be overwhelmed. Just no self-destructing." I coach.

She doesn't respond and I can practically hear her processing my words. She finally looks up, her eyes glassy. "Thank you. For seeing me. Helping me. I know you were doing your job but..."