Leaning against the bathtub, Jennifer chuckled.
âI told him to stop pursuing me because I wanted us to grow closer.
It seems straightforward, yet he acts foolishly.
He doesnât understand and insists on pursuing me for a full year as if every day is crucial.
Canât he read between the lines?â
Hilliard froze.
This was the true meaning behind Jenniferâs comments in the swimming pool earlier that dayâ¦
He realized he had missed a chance for them to grow closer.
âHe really is acting foolishly.
Donât be upset with him.
After this trip, you should discuss marriage seriously and make it a priority.
What do you think?â Hilliard sought Jenniferâs opinion, hoping to guide the conversation towards resolution.
âNo, I will let him pursue me for two more yearsâ¦â Jennifer mused, then her voice faded as she drifted back to sleep.
Watching her, Hilliardâs eyes filled with warmth, and he shook his head in affectionate exasperation.
He quickly showered, then returned to gently dry Jennifer and carry her from the bathtub to the large bed in their hotel room.
They settled into bed, comfortable and content.
Before turning off the light, Hilliard whispered into her ear, âI could chase you all my life, but letâs marry first.
â
Now understanding the real significance of Jenniferâs daytime remarks, he pondered a new approach.
How could he ever disappoint her?
They embraced and slept soundly until morning.
Upon awakening, Jennifer discovered she was nestled in an arm.
Turning around, she saw Hilliard still deep in sleep, their bodies bare under the crisp white quilt.
Surprised at their nakedness, Jennifer recalled the previous nightâs events.
As she stirred, Hilliardâs eyes fluttered open, and he blinked away the remnants of sleep.
âJennifer, youâre awake.
Do you feel any better now after last nightâs drinks?â he asked softly.
Because he had just woken up, Hilliardâs voice was soft and appealing, the kind that might make a young girlâs heart flutter.
He raised his hand and gently rubbed Jenniferâs head, attempting to ease her discomfort from the previous nightâs drinking.
Jennifer felt moved, inquiring, âIâm fine.
Last night we⦠Did you⦠do anything?â
As she spoke, she glanced beneath the quilt, hinting at her deeper question.
Hilliard understood her implication.
He had no intention of sharing the details of her drunken antics.
âNo, I just brought you back to your room, took a shower, and went to bed.
â
âThatâs all? Did you really just take a shower and nothing else?â