22
~Bella's POV
The water was soothing, calming both of us as we stood under the stream, neither of us in a rush to finish. After a few moments, I pulled away and began reaching for the shampoo, feeling the day ahead pressing on my shoulders again. It was time to get ready to leave.
We finished our shower in silence, each of us lost in our own thoughts. The warmth of the water seemed to seep into my bones, giving me a brief moment of relief before the world outside demanded my attention. Once we were both done, I stepped out of the shower and began to dry off, feeling the exhaustion still hanging around me but not letting it drag me down.
Alex stepped out after me, and I watched as he moved toward the mirror, grabbing his shaving kit. His eyes met mine briefly, a silent understanding passing between us.
"You look better already," he said, his voice gruff but sincere.
I gave him a small, half-hearted smile, nodding in acknowledgment. "Thanks."
