Emma

Part 5

When she got up the next morning, a note was waiting for her on the bar.

"Hi. When you go around the house, there's a little path toward the woods. If you follow it, the walk will take you about an hour and I'm sure you'll enjoy it. See you later. Love to you. A."

Emma smiled. She was touched by such thoughtfulness. She was in a cheerful mood as she ate her breakfast and got ready. Before she started following the path, she texted Alex.

"Hi. I'm heeding your advice and going on an adventure. Wish you were here. Thanks. E."

Before she stepped out, her cell phone vibrated.

"This is my walk, so I'm with you for a bit. Watch and enjoy everything you see. A."

When Alex returned home, Emma was waiting for her, the table set.

"Hi. What's up?"

"Hi there! The walk was really nice. Thank you so much. I'm glad I took some very nice pictures."

"You're welcome. I don't have to work tomorrow. If you want, I can take you to the forest. I know a lovely spot."

Emma got closer to Alex and kissed her cheek. "I'll be happy to follow you anywhere. Thank you very much," she said, as she looked into Alex's eyes.

Alex blushed and turned away to hide her confusion.

"Are you hungry? Sit down, I'll serve you."

Alex nodded and obeyed quietly. They shared their meal quite silently, watching each other. Later they drank their coffee sitting side by side on the terrace. As Emma sensed that Alex had been withdrawing since the day before, she deliberately maintained a physical contact with her, shoulder to shoulder.

"Do you need a ride to your brother's?"

"I'd like that if you don't mind."

"No problem, I'll take the opportunity to go shopping. Just call me when you wish to leave for home and I'll pick you up."

"OK, but you can come and join us afterwards if you want."

"No, Emma. I think it's important that you spend some time alone with Nico. I guess you have a lot to talk about and you need to be together. I'll be a third wheel."

"Yes, you're right. I'm sorry."

"Don't be sorry. It's OK. I'll be here when you get back, don't worry," Alex added, aware that Emma longed to be comforted. "By the way, I'm seeing some friends tonight. I'm taking you with me."

"Friends? Where?"

"At a local lesbian bar. Can you handle it?"

Emma was silent for a moment before she answered.

"If you stay with me, yes."

Alex chuckled at the reply and at Emma's face.

"You have nothing to worry about. I won't leave you at any time. And, you know, we don't bite, not like that! You just have to say no!"

Emma blushed at Alex's innuendo and smiled widely. "Are you making fun of me?"

"Of course! I couldn't resist!"

"This isn't funny!" Emma said, slapping Alex's thigh.

"Yes, it's funny, believe me! You should have seen your face!"

They laughed and teased each other for a while before Alex finally decided to drive her to Nicolas's house. Hand in hand, they separated in that same driveway where they reunited, and exchanged a kiss on the cheek.