After breakfast, Jake and Clara got ready to leave. Clara gave me a warm hug at the door. “Thank you so much for having us, Bella. The party was lovely and the guest room was perfect.”
Jake stood beside her with a small smile. He shook Ryan’s hand first, then turned to me. His eyes held mine for a second longer than they should. “Yeah, thanks Bella. Everything was… memorable.”
I forced a smile. “Safe drive, you two.”
They loaded their small bags into the car. Clara waved as they pulled out of the driveway. I watched until the car disappeared down the street. The house felt quieter once they were gone.
Ryan checked his watch and sighed. “I need to head to the office too. Some paperwork I can’t push anymore.” He kissed my cheek and grabbed his keys and left shortly after, the front door
