Kate looked at the mess and glanced at Bastien.

—Clean this up.

Bastien nodded, and Kate went upstairs to brush her teeth, her cheeks still flushed. She tied her hair in a ponytail, washed her face and teeth, then came back down. The table was set, and Bastien was uncorking a bottle of wine.

—I just want juice, please.

—Alright, darling.

Bastien couldn’t wipe the smile off his face. Those fleeting, passionate moments with Kate made him happier than a child on Christmas. He poured a glass of juice and placed it in front of her, kissing her lips.

—All set. Let’s eat.

They both started eating, and Bastien’s eyes lit up with delight.

—Darling, this is delicious.

—Thanks. I like that you enjoy it.

Bastien ate with such pleasure while Kate watched him. He looked just like that weak little boy who used to devour cookies in her sewing room. His eyes sparkled with joy at every bite. Kate looked at him with love. Bastien felt her gaze and looked up.

—What is it?

—You remind me of when we were k