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.

her stiff neck, she saw Abner already awake and working on another test paper. She quickly handled

I can arrange a transfer. With your grades, finding a new

the semester is

about you being affected by

care much about what others

softened Shirley's heart. How could

travel abroad anymore. I'll be 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

smile spread across Abner's face, filled with

lightly on the head.

"No, not anymore."

drove into the neighborhood, Shirley noticed her mom waiting outside, concern creasing her forehead. She rolled

"Mom."

been looking for you. Today, Mark came over with some gifts, talking about setting a wedding date. Your dad

"Let's go upstairs, Mom."

notice Abner, likely the boy she'd heard so much

feel close to him. With a strained

sent Abner to do his homework. In his room, Abner held his pen, straining to listen to the conversation outside. Shirley poured her mother a

Mark, it's

since Mark brought his mother along this time, and they seemed to get along well with your father. I