Dear Ex-wife Marry Me by Twin Bridge

Chapter 2011

Shirley poured him a glass of water, her eyes tracing the neat handwriting on his test paper with a mix of heartache and pride.

"Mr. James mentioned you've still been topping all the exams these past couple of months?"

"Yeah, didn't want to let you down, Shirley."

Unable to hold back any longer, Shirley sat on the edge of the bed and wrapped him in a hug.

"Next time something like this happens, you have to tell me, okay?"

Abner wasn't used to being hugged like this; her subtle scent filled his senses. Shirley's choice was a niche brand of body wash she preferred over perfume, which Abner had started using too. Though it was the same fragrance, he always thought it smelled better on her.

"Okay."

"The doctor said you can be discharged tomorrow. I'll stay with you tonight."

"Shirley, you've just got back; you should go home and rest."

"No need, I'll sleep on the cot next to you."

Abner's cheeks flushed red, avoiding her gaze as he forced himself to continue reviewing his test paper. The hospital cot was cramped, and Shirley, still jet-lagged, fell asleep quickly while Abner tossed and turned. He drew back the curtain and watched her sleep peacefully for ten minutes before gently covering her with a blanket.

cheek for a moment-brief, but heart-fluttering. When she woke, daylight filled the room. Rubbing her stiff neck,

this school, I can arrange a transfer. With your grades, finding a new school will be

the semester is almost over

being affected

care

Shirley's heart. How could he

getting paid for a few projects soon, and after another six months with my advisor, I'll stay on as a teacher. My schedule will be more flexible then, so I'll have lots of time

spread across Abner's face, filled with

on the head. "Does it

"No, not anymore."

mom waiting outside, concern creasing her forehead. She

"Mom."

over with some gifts, talking about setting a wedding date. Your dad agreed on the spot."

"Let's go upstairs, Mom."

the boy she'd heard

couldn't bring herself to feel close to him.

Abner to do his homework. In his room, Abner held his pen, straining to listen to the conversation outside.

Mark, it's completely

Especially since Mark brought his mother along this time, and they seemed to get along