*Claire*

I woke up and slowly stretched, fully expecting to feel Eric’s body next to mine. Instead, I felt the cold bed. I sat up, not realizing it was as late as it was, searching for him. I reached for my phone on the bedside table and saw his note.

*Claire,

You were sleeping so peacefully that I couldn’t bring myself to wake you before leaving. Know that I’m counting the minutes until you’re in my arms again.

...