An hour or so around had passed since Benny left work at midday. Not much to do this morning except for a bunch of budgets to review and approve at the family business. Besides law, they owned a club that he ran most of the time since Eva-Lis was consumed by the gallery and Gösta was detached, only used to supervise from time to time, leaving the work to his older son. As usual, he took the morning to resolve whatever was needed, by midday the time to go home arrived but as much as he loved spending time in his new house and his love he felt like distracting himself at downtown.
With hands inside that brown coat pockets, he passed by the several shops leisurely, enjoying himself of this cold but embracing January weather. His nose, red from the cold. His hair, messy from the wild air. His booths, creaking on the sidewalk over traces of snow. For a man who'd spent the last years living on his own, this time alone felt like a fresh air, as much as he loved his new life. He had been doing good, great in fact— learning to share his roof, his routine, his space and time, he was quick at adapting.
A couple in their mid twenties with a toddler crossed the street in his direction. Benny watched them discreetly, the little boy trying to catch the coffee his mommy held, as any boy his age would want to wander in whatever his hands could possibly reach. Benny smiled timidly. His baby girl would be in the outside world in a matter of three months, it'd became a long waiting, he yearned to meet her pretty face, surely as perfect at her mother's, he was convinced. Frida and him had dedicated themselves to adapt a room for their little one, not to mention the closed already full of pretty tiny clothing and infinite amounts of baby supplies. Things still were missed here and there, most of them insignificant and a few others essential.
Benny continued his way maintaining an easy step, calm and relaxed. Frida, like most of days, stayed at home and hadn't texted, which meant she was fine and entertained in whatever plan she had. Benny used to mock her about how she always found a new task to perform, as little and insignificant as it might seem. She never was totally quiet, she had a purpose for each day and lowkey he admired that about her.
With her in mind, Benny reached the corner and stopped to wait for the stoplight. He sighed and smoke came out from his mouth. He giggled— he'd adopted new habits, healthier ones, which meant quitting smoking. He wanted none of that crap near his daughter, the doctor was clear pointing how it could affect the pregnancy process and ahead with a little human in the house, so he decided to quit or at least reduce the dose for the well being of his family. He stood there, switching his look from right to left, until he became aware of the big furniture store at the very corner of the block. He'd been distracted on his thoughts he'd passed by oblivious to his surroundings. He approached te showcase until his eyes reached the ideal target. His lips twisted in the most excited smile a man could have. Got it!
Yet again, Frida checked the clock above the calendar in the kitchen. Disappointed, she sighed loudly. It'd passed a considerable amount of time and Benny was nowhere to be seen, despite assuring he'd be back early, it clearly got of of his hand. Frida pursed her lips, trying not to get annoyed by the increasing disappointment in her, the now cold food staring at her from the kitchen table. She made a big effort, as always, maybe a little extra today because she felt like pampering her man, so she took the time to search a good enough recipe on the internet and gather all ingredients at the supermarket last Wednesday, she got to work as soon as he left for work and dedicated all day in heart and soul to cook, hoping he'd return soon as promised, expecting to surprise him, so bad it didn't turn out.
"I should have asked first," she murmured, scolding herself as she covered the food on the glass bowls. The kitchen still impregnated by the delicious smell. "What a waste. But it's my fault for not asking. Always my fault."
