As Christopher came back downstairs, Emilia carefully placed the steaming pitcher of freshly brewed coffee on the table, accompanied by a freshly made breakfast that she had prepared unprompted. Christopher's vibrant smile seemed to illuminate the space. The refreshing shower had revived him, masking some of the fatigue lurking beneath his eyes. His damp hair was neatly combed back, glistening in the morning light.
"I hope you can get some rest today," Christopher remarked, tying his tie as he walked toward the table. His words carried genuine concern."
"I would be more concerned for you, Mr Hayden. You have been awake for so long and you have a whole day of work ahead." Emilia answered honestly.
"I might steal a cheeky nap in my office during lunchtime. Don't worry. And last night was the best night I've had in ages," he settled himself down. There was a sparkle in his eyes. Emilia evoke something in him that he never knew existed.
"That's good to hear, Mr. Hayden," Emilia responded, her voice laced with sincerity and warmth. She never seemed to put a mask on which he was so keen on.
"Will you join me for breakfast?" Christopher inquired, causing Emilia to halt in mid-step, surprised by the unexpected invitation.
"If you wish, sir," Emilia agreed, quickly retrieving her own plate from the kitchen. Barky immediately found his way to her side, snuggling his head against her feet. Emilia poured two mugs of freshly brewed coffee as the dog's fur tickling her sock-covered toes.
Christopher was the first to take a sip of the coffee, his face contorting in contemplation. Emilia noticed his expression and anxiously awaited his reaction, fearing a reprimand for not preparing the coffee to his liking.
"What coffee is this?" Christopher queried, his voice tinged with intrigue.
"It's the same blend that Bernadette brews every morning, Mr. Hayden," Emilia's voice showed concern.
"Really? It tastes different, somehow smoother than I remember. It's amazing," Christopher added.
"Ah, I added a pinch of salt to the ground coffee and brewed it at a lower temperature than Bernadette does," Emilia explained, a faint blush coloring her cheeks.
"Salt? I can't taste it at all," Christopher remarked, his eyes lighting up with fascination.
"Salt helps to mellow the bitterness."
"Astonishing," Christopher uttered, promptly finishing his first cup. "Is there anything you're not good at?"
Emilia blushed deeper at Christopher's praise, her heart fluttering at his words. She couldn't help but feel a pang of longing, knowing their connection could never extend beyond their professional roles. He was married, and she was simply his assistant. He had a bad time getting to sleep and he found entertainment in their conversations. There was nothing more to it.
"Good morning, sir, madam," Bernadette's voice broke the spell as she entered the room, still wearing her coat.
"Good morning," Christopher and Emilia replied in unison. Bernadette glanced at them curiously but said nothing.
Emilia felt uneasy being spotted in Christopher's presence. She didn't need Bernadette vocalising the ridiculousness or judgment of it. She was berating herself for being near him.
"What are your plans for the day?" Christopher asked, snapping her back from the spiral of thoughts.
"I've already fed Bark Twain, so I'll take him for a walk after breakfast. Then, I will likely spend most of my day working on my university assignment. I have lectures to prepare for tomorrow. That's the highlight of my day, Mr Hayden," Emilia replied. She hesitated before turning the question back to him. "And what about you, sir?"
"I have a meeting this morning with a key shareholder, more of a networking opportunity really. It will likely turn into a lunch. After that, I need to prepare a presentation for tomorrow. We're expecting some regulatory changes, and I must ensure the board of directors is informed," Christopher answered without a second thought, glad that his wife took interest in him.
After breakfast, Emilia went on a walk with Barky, while Christopher remained in the dining room, awaiting Patrick's arrival to assist him in preparing for the day ahead. Not long after, as expected, Patrick greeted Christopher with a courteous "Good morning, sir."
"Good morning, Mr Cosby," Christopher acknowledged, his brows furrowing in concentration as he read a document, gathering information for his upcoming presentation.
"Mr Hayden, aspirin?" Patrick offered, noticing the telltale signs of dark circles under Christopher's eyes. He suspected Christopher had indulged in alcohol once again.
"I'm quite alright, Mr Cosby," Christopher replied, his smile putting Patrick slightly off balance. "Please arrange an appointment with the vet and dog groomer for later today," he instructed, striding purposefully toward the door.
"What for?" Patrick asked, taken aback by the unexpected request.
"We have a new addition to the family—a dog that Emilia brought home."
"You have a dog with Dr. Vincent?" Patrick exclaimed, momentarily forgetting to use Emilia's married name.
"Yes, it appears so," Christopher confirmed, his good mood radiating through his gleaming smile.
"I see. I'll make the necessary arrangements for this afternoon," Patrick replied, his mind racing to catch up with the unfolding situation.
"Brilliant," Christopher exclaimed, his buoyant step matching the enthusiasm in his voice. Sensing something amiss, Patrick couldn't help but voice his concerns.
"Sir, is everything alright?"
"Never better. Although, I do hope to get some sleep tonight," Christopher replied.
"A sleepless night?" Patrick inquired, his concern deepening.
"Indeed, but every minute was so worth it," Christopher responded, almost bounding toward the waiting car. Patrick couldn't shake off his unease, troubled by the sight of Christopher, who seemed elated.
"Sir?" Patrick felt powerless.
"Don't worry, Mr Cosby. I have spend an entire night talking with my wife! Isn't that splendid?" Christopher asked before getting into the car.
Patrick was speechless, realising very quickly that he definitely didn't have another seven or eight months before the truth was to be revealed.