"That's not something you need to worry about," Bonnie said.
"I've developed a high-efficiency washer-dryer that takes less than 10 minutes to wash and dry clothes. Your clothes will be dry by the time you're done with your shower, so you don't have to worry about that."
A hint of disappointment flashed in Ivor's eyes. He had hoped to use this as an opportunity to get closer to Bonnie, but it seemed his plan was thwarted.
Bonnie noticed his subtle expressions but chose not to call him out. Instead, she said, "Hurry up and take off your clothes. I'll wash them for you."
Ivor raised an eyebrow and gave a suggestive smile. "Do you want me to take them off right in front of you, or—"
Before he could finish, Bonnie pushed him into the bathroom and closed the door behind him. "If you don't want to catch a cold, hurry up and shower. No more talking."
Ivor chuckled softly and responded warmly, "Alright."
10 minutes later, Bonnie hung the freshly dried clothes on the bathroom door and called out, "I've made some supper and tea. Once you're dressed, come to the dining room."
Ivor's voice quickly came from inside. "Got it."
After dressing, Ivor went to the dining room and saw baked chicken and tea on the table. A wave of warmth filled his heart, and he quickened his pace toward the table. As he walked, he said, "My honey always takes care of me. It was worth the trip."
Upon hearing this, Bonnie looked at him with a hint of suspicion. "By the way, I almost forgot to ask. Why did you come here so late? Is there something important you need to tell me?"
Ivor's grip on his fork tightened slightly. "No."
This response only made Bonnie more puzzled. "Then what is it?"
"I just wanted to see you," Ivor said, his eyes filling with tenderness as he looked at her.
Bonnie bit her lip, a complex mix of emotions rising within her. "Are you crazy? Can't you see it's pouring outside? Couldn't you wait until tomorrow to see me? Why did you have to come tonight? Do you want to make yourself sick?"
Ivor knew she was only saying this out of concern for him. His heart softened, and the tenderness in his eyes overflowed. "I wanted to see you, so I came. As long as I can see you, I don't fear the wind or the rain."
Bonnie felt her heart race uncontrollably. The sound of her heartbeat filled her ears, drowning out everything else. She could see nothing but the man before her.
After staring at him for a long time and feeling her intense emotions slowly subside, she finally spoke. "A-Are you crazy? Is it worth it to put yourself through this just to see me?"
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: I Love You, Miss Genius ( Bonnie Shepard )