Chapter 83. Tonight

Aaron POV

I moved slowly to the rhythm of the soft music playing as I stirred the sauce, swaying just a little. I had left Joan in bed so I could make breakfast before she woke up. Since I hadn't been able to get much sleep anyway, I figured I might as well make myself useful.

Joan had made it a habit to glue herself to my side, draping her legs over me and tucking her hands into my shorts. I’d just stared at the ceiling in resignation, willing myself to stay still. I had a feeling she knew exactly what she was doing while pretending to be asleep. And even though my mind knew she wasn’t ready for anything yet, my body had an entirely different opinion.

"What are you doing?" Her voice came from behind me, and I froze for a moment before glancing over my shoulder. She leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, green eyes sparkling with amusement.

I shrugged, masking the flicker of embarrassment creeping up my spine. "Cooking," I