I started reading your book "The Housekeeper" and wasn't initially sure if it was to my taste. The characters seemed matter-of-fact, cold, and distant at first, and even the emerging intimacy was strongly marked by separation. But gradually, a glimmer of light emerged behind their walls.
The passionate closeness gradually becomes interwoven with genuine emotions, and Ivy and Lando's cautious approach is full of longing, but also accompanied by the fear of pain. It's beautiful to witness how they both deal with their doubts—including those sown by others—and how these insecurities only slowly fade away.
At the same time, they build a kind of protective wall around each other while tearing down the walls between them, piece by piece. They begin to understand each other, often without many words. Simply perfect.
I found the make-up sex after Lando and Cleo's meeting a bit difficult because it doesn't really resolve any issues. But ultimately, it suits them – they often still open up to each other through closeness and intimacy, rather than through conversation. Now, the first "I love you" has been spoken, again in a very intimate moment.
I'm curious to see how they will grow through the challenges ahead.