Chapter 39

We stopped at a small café near the clinic, opting for a table outside where we could enjoy the warm air. The street bustled with people, the scent of fresh bread and roasted coffee wafting through the air.

Monique ordered a salad with grilled chicken, while I went for a croque monsieur, craving something more filling. We chatted about nothing in particular, laughing over a story Monique told about an old professor of hers who would fall asleep mid-lecture.

But as the meal went on, I felt her eyes on me. She was watching me closely, and I knew why. My thoughts had drifted. I was responding a little slower, my gaze occasionally distant.

She set down her fork. “Okay, what’s wrong?”

Blinking, I looked up at her. “What do you mean?”

“You’ve been quiet since we left the doctor’s office.” She narrowed her eyes. “Are you sure he told you everything? Is something wrong?”

I sighed, shaking my head. “No, I promise. I’m fine.”

She studied me for a moment longer, then leaned forward. “Then what is it? You’re thinking about something.”

Hesitating, I finally answered. “I just remembered something I need to handle at the office. Nothing urgent, but I’d like to take care of it tomorrow morning.”

Monique tilted her head. “You’re going into work?”

“Just for a few hours,” I reassured her. “I was thinking—you’ve mentioned needing a manicure and pedicure, and you said you wanted a haircut. Why don’t you spend the morning at the spa? My treat.”

She arched an eyebrow. “You want to send me off to get pampered while you deal with business?”

I smirked. “Not as a thank you for taking care of me—just as your boyfriend. Consider it a little indulgence because I appreciate you.” Taking a sip of coffee, I added playfully, “Besides, I benefit when you look even more stunning when we’re out together.”

She rolled her eyes, laughing. “You’re a little old-fashioned, you know that?”

I grinned. “And you like it.”

She chuckled, shaking her head. “Fine. But only because I could use some self-care.”