I shoot a simple goodbye text, tuck my wet hair behind my ears, and I head to the door. "Yes?"
"Hey." Joel's voice flows through the heavy wood.
My eyes catch my reflection. I'm still in my towel. I'm not wearing makeup. And my hair… it's not good.
I don't let anyone see me like this.
Not even Anne or Dad.
I pull my towel tighter.
I trace the scars on my right wrist, but all I can see is the giant rock on my left ring finger.
"Bella?" Joel taps on the door. "You gonna open up?"
I guess I should.
The man did marry me.
The least I could do is have an honest conversation about it.
"I'm in a towel." I press my palm against the door. It's a flimsy excuse, but I mean it. It's one thing stripping then jumping into bed with someone. It's another standing here, my face as naked as my body.
"Hate to break it to you, Bella, but I saw every inch of your naked body last night."
"Every inch?"
"Just about." He taps the door. "If you need a minute to get dressed, I can wait…"
But he's not leaving until I let him in.
Okay.
That's fair.
We're adults.
We can have an honest conversation.
I pull my towel tighter then I open the door for Joel.
"Thanks." He steps inside and runs a hand through his shaggy hair.
He doesn't look worse for wear. His green eyes are bright. His grey t-shirt—it brings out the grey in his eyes—is tight around his strong shoulders.
His jeans are snug around his narrow hips.
And those tattoos covering his arms and chest…
He really is an attractive man.
I clear my throat and take a step backwards. "I guess there's the instant coffee maker." I motion to it. "I only drink tea, but I do hear hotel coffee is terrible."
"No thanks."
"Or maybe you want water?" I stumble backwards until my calves hit the bed. Then I fall back onto the bed. I manage to do it gracefully. Like it was on purpose. "My sister said congratulations."
"You told her?"