Chapter 13

The new week began quietly, slipping back into its familiar rhythm.

Monday through Wednesday passed in the usual comfortable blur of work and domestic life. Rob headed into the office each morning, spending long hours refining drawings for the waterfront project, while Elise worked from home, headphones on, fingers flying across her keyboard as she wrestled with complex code for the gaming company. Evenings were relaxed, simple dinners together, a glass of wine on the sofa, occasional lazy lovemaking.

Tuesday night, after a particularly long day, they found themselves tangled in bed earlier than usual. The sex was slow and sensual. Rob took his time undressing Elise, kissing every inch of her petite body until she was trembling. He went down on her with unhurried devotion, tongue circling her clit in slow, steady strokes while two fingers curled inside her, drawing out soft, breathy moans. When she finally came on his tongue, he slid up her body and entered her in one smooth thrust. They moved together languidly, faces close, eyes locked, whispering quiet affection as the pleasure built. Elise wrapped her slim legs around his waist, pulling him deeper until they both came together in a shared, shuddering release. Afterward they lay tangled in each other’s arms, content and sleepy, the rain still tapping gently at the windows.

They noticed almost nothing from next door. No unfamiliar cars in Ella’s driveway, no signs of visitors. The tall blonde seemed to be keeping a low profile, and life in the cul-de-sac continued its peaceful rhythm.

Thursday arrived with brighter skies. Both Rob and Elise had decided to work from home, enjoying the flexibility their careers allowed. Around noon they agreed a change of scenery would be nice and drove to a new Mexican restaurant that had recently opened nearby. The lunch was short but enjoyable, fresh guacamole, crispy fish tacos for Rob, and chicken enchiladas in a rich mole sauce for Elise. They laughed and talked easily, stealing bites from each other’s plates, the meal feeling like a small, welcome break in the middle of the week.

As they turned back into their quiet cul-de-sac, a sleek new model Range Rover followed them in. Rob pulled into their driveway while the luxury SUV continued past and smoothly turned into Ella’s driveway.

Both of them paused before going inside, curiosity getting the better of them.

An older man in his early fifties, average height and build, well-dressed in a casual blazer, stepped out of the driver’s side. From the passenger seat emerged a stunning young woman in her early twenties. She was a classic redhead with long, fiery hair cascading down her back, and a body that screamed swimsuit model, long toned legs, narrow waist, full breasts, and an effortless, confident grace as she moved. She wore a simple but expensive-looking cream sweater and tight jeans that showed off her figure.