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It’s quiet between Jake and I during breakfast at the kitchen table.
However, Emily and Dylan excitedly recount their exciting time at the circus yesterday, which makes it easier for us to become distracted.
Our attention is on our children's conversation rather than the incredible evening we experienced last night. I can still feel the lingering sensation of his touch, and the whole experience with him was incredibly exhilarating. I am exploring new sensations in unexpected places.
Taking me to pleasurable heights I never realized could even be reached.
Emily's eyes sparkle with unbridled enthusiasm as she launches into her version of the circus adventure, her voice brimming with excitement.
"And then, mom, the clowns! They were so scary with their big shoes and red noses! But—but the lions," her tone dips. "They scared me more. Especially when they roared. It was so loud!" Her little hands cover her ears in remembered fear, her body inching closer to mine for comfort. I automatically wrap an arm around her, pulling her into a reassuring hug from her chair.
"It's okay, sweetheart. Those lions were well trained and in a safe place," I soothe, trying to ease her fears, all while my mind wanders, replaying fragments from last night with Jake.
Then there's Dylan, Jake's mini future cowboy, who's practically bouncing in his seat, unable to contain his enthusiasm. "But Dad and Ms. Mia, I think the coolest were the acrobats! They were flying through the air, doing flips and stuff. It was so cool!"
His eyes, so much like Jake's, shine with the thrill of it. His excitement is palpable, filling the room with a liveliness that momentarily distracts me from the whirlwind of my emotions.
"And Dad," Dylan continues, turning to Jake with a wide grin, "when can we go again? Can we? Please?" His pleading gaze shifts between us, innocent and hopeful.
Jake catches my eye over our children's heads, and we silently converse. We both know that moments like these are precious, the simple joy of a child's fascination, and that our bond strengthens as we spend time together.
These moments subtly knit us closer. Not just as parents co-navigating the joys and challenges of parenting but as two individuals rediscovering each other, exploring the depth of the connection that had once seemed lost to time and circumstance.
Jake leans forward, ruffling Dylan's hair affectionately. "We'll try to go again the next time they come to the area, buddy," he promises, a warm smile spreading across his face. His voice's undercurrent of love and commitment isn't lost on anyone at the table.
Dylan's face lights up with joy, and Emily, now comforted and curious, leans in closer, eager to experience the excitement of the circus again. A moment of shared happiness lingers in the air, tangible and sweet.
"Mr. Jake, what was your favorite part of the circus?" Emily's question breaks the warm silence. Her eyes sparkle with curiosity as she turns to Jake, eager for his answer.
Jake pauses momentarily, reflecting, then smiles softly at my daughter. "You know, I think it was watching the joy on your and Dylan's faces," he begins, his voice filled with affection. "But if I had to pick from the show, I'd say the tightrope walkers. Something about the balance and courage they show is just captivating."
Turning to me, Emily's curiosity remains unabated. "And what about you, Mom? What did you like the best?"
I laugh lightly, touched by her interest. "I loved the juggling act," I admit, remembering the flawless coordination and rhythm. "The way they kept all those balls in the air was like watching a dance of precision and timing. Mesmerizing."
Both children nod, absorbing our answers with bright, thoughtful eyes. Their imaginations are likely spinning with the vivid imagery of the circus acts we described.
"Alright, kids, let's focus on finishing breakfast now," Jake says, gently steering the conversation toward the morning routine without dampening the spirited atmosphere. They obediently nod and then devour their blueberry pancakes, each bite reminding them of their hunger.
I also start eating my food again, and my eyes lock with Jake's, who winks at me. I stifle the giggle I almost let out, feeling like a schoolgirl with a crush. I'm glad I woke up with no regrets this morning, but it did feel strange having to slip on my underwear and tank top at 3 in the morning when I woke up to sneak out.
I had gone to the guest room, closing the door behind me, quickly showered ,and then changed into my nightgown before returning to bed.
I packed some clothes for Emily and myself in case we stayed overnight in Clearmont Ridge. After breakfast, the children head into the living room to watch cartoons while I assist Jake with the dishes.
We wash and dry, our shoulders and arms brushing against each other playfully as we gaze at each other, undressing with our eyes. I wouldn't mind if last night happened again, but I know it has to make sense for that to occur.
Getting away with us staying over last night was a breeze, considering we made it back to the house in the evening. However, I can't help but wonder if being invited to stay over again could potentially confuse the children.
Or worse yet, make them suspicious.
I haven't even started considering how to approach Emily and ask if she's okay with me dating. And I'm currently undecided on whether it's a good idea to date.
But I couldn't deny the electrifying way that Jake made me feel last night.
The kind of way that has you yearning for more and unable to get enough.
After cleaning up from breakfast, it was time for my nature crafts class at the Beartooth Ranch. Today, we planned to create leaf prints, an ideally suited activity for children ages six to eleven.
