“He’s waiting for his breakfast,” she pointed out.
That pushed Tate into action. He moved the first spoonful toward Nathan, who instantly opened his mouth. Tate’s eyebrows shot up. “Hey, this is easy.”
Something lightened in the room.
She gave a soft laugh. “Of course it is.”
“Clearly he’s an amenable chap,” he said, winking at her. “Must take after me.”#p#分页标题#e#
Gemma wasn’t sure who was more taken aback by that wink—her or Tate. She was certain it wasn’t something he had done intentionally, especially when he averted his eyes again to scoop up another spoonful of food.
Still, it was nice to have a cheerful mood between them, if only for a few minutes. “Yes, well, he’s hungry right now. You should try getting him to open his mouth when he’s not hungry.”
Tate slipped another spoonful in his son’s mouth. “I can’t believe that.”
“You did say he took after you,” she joked.
Tate’s gaze returned to her, one eyebrow quirking, his eyes amused. “So you’re calling my son and me stubborn?”
“Obstinate is the word I would have used.”
“Oh, really,” he drawled.
Their gazes linked…
It was like old times…
Suddenly they were talking on one level but aware of each other on another. She stood close enough to see the attraction flare in his eyes.
He was the first to break eye contact, turning back to his son. “What are your plans for this morning?” His voice was neutral, as if the camaraderie had never been.
Disappointment rippled through her, followed by anger at herself. Why be disappointed because their one moment of bonding was over? It couldn’t make up for the rest of the issues between them.
The rest of their lives…
And his question made it sound as if he wasn’t hoping to share the day with her either, which was a relief. She could be herself without him around. She didn’t have to defend the person she was.
“I thought I might take Nathan for a walk around the gardens and down to the lake. It’s a beautiful day.”
He nodded. “Good idea. He needs fresh air and sunshine. He’s a bit pale.”
Was there an implied criticism in his words? Was he saying their son hadn’t been getting proper care and attention because she’d been a single, working mother? If so, that just wasn’t true. He was at a wonderful daycare while she worked, and every weekend she’d made sure Nathan got out and about with her. They went to the beach or a park, or even the local supermarket where she’d do her weekly shopping. He’d always had fun there, charming the cashiers with his smile. Gemma had loved showing him off.
“I know Nathan can’t go swimming yet,” Tate said, reminding her that the doctor had said it was best to wait awhile before putting Nathan in the water, and even then he would have to wear a special cap to cover his ears. “But the pool is there anytime for you to use. It’s not quite summer, but it’s heated and you won’t get cold.”
His consideration surprised her. “Thanks. It’ll be nice to have some time to swim by myself.” As soon as she said the words, she held her breath. Would Tate think she had an ulterior motive? Would he think she was suggesting he join her in the pool?
His eyes closed in on her, but not in the way she might expect. “Gemma, you realize we have to stay here for the full week or it won’t look right?”
Everything inside her went thud. “I know you don’t want to be with me, Tate. You don’t have to keep telling me.”
He cursed softly. “You’re losing sight of something. This isn’t about us. I’m doing this for my family’s sake, and in the long run for Nathan.” He allowed a tiny pause. “I thought you were, too.”
How did he manage to turn everything to his advantage? She gave a sigh. “Yes, of course I am.”
“Then what’s the problem?”#p#分页标题#e#
There was an empty ache in the region of her heart, but she ignored it. “No problem. You’re the one seeing problems where there’s none.”
He stared hard, clearly not liking her answer. Then he gave Nathan the last spoonful of food and pushed to his feet. “I’ll be in the study all morning.”
The chill was back.
And yet as he went to leave, he stopped to ruffle his son’s hair in a brief but loving caress. Gemma saw the gesture and realized Tate was right. For a moment, she had lost sight of the reason for their marriage. This was about Nathan. She just had to get used to there being nothing for her.