The sound of water splashing in the bathroom made its way into the bedroom. Steve Burton found it irritating, and he slightly raised his hand in agitation to loosen his tie, trying to catch his breath.
Ruby Gregory had prepared hot water for a bath and thoughtfully placed a towel and bathrobe near the pool. Walking out of the bathroom, she spoke to Steve, still frozen in place, "The bath is ready."
Steve didn't move, his eyes locked onto Ruby, realizing he never learned his lesson about her. So, he spoke the first words after coming home, "Did you call tonight?"
He brought up the matter that she refused to mention.
Ruby's expression was gentle, unbroken despite his words.
Upon hearing his question, she nodded slightly before speaking, "Over the weekend, when I went shopping with my mom, I saw a tie that I thought would suit you, so I bought it."
As she spoke, Ruby pointed to a gift box placed on a corner of the sofa.
