Broken Memories, Intertwined Hearts novel Chapter 213

Ines sobered up the moment she got out of the car. She'd had a blast all day and was in high spirits, but also a bit worn out. As soon as she walked in the door, she flopped onto Ethan, burying her head in his chest, "I'm beat."

Ethan gently smoothed her hair, "Did you enjoy your day out?"

"Definitely. I used to be so busy at the firm but still managed to squeeze in two trips a year. Even if I couldn't get time off, I'd at least go once. Traveling helps me chill out. I don't like being cooped up at home all day."

"Did you go by yourself?"

"Yep. I like flying solo. It can be a bit lonely, but I don’t have to tiptoe around anyone else’s feelings. It's liberating." Ines reminisced about the past.

Ethan frowned, "From what you're saying, it seems you enjoy traveling alone. Aren't you afraid of running into trouble?"

"I am capable of looking after myself. With sufficient financial resources, I feel secure. I am adept at managing my needs, being cautious about food and lodging. During the day, I can explore and enjoy myself, while finding solace in a comfortable hotel at night. It suits me just fine," Ines explained, outlining her self-sufficiency.

Ethan was a bit uneasy. This girl, who clearly had no sense of security, oddly enjoyed traveling alone.

"Why don't you invite Phoebe or your colleagues?"

"I have gone out with Phoebe a few times, but our schedules hardly match. And I definitely don't want to go with my colleagues. I don’t want my alone time to be disturbed. Besides, colleagues are just colleagues, they won't accept me unconditionally like Phoebe."

"I will go with you next time."

Ines looked at Ethan, seemingly hesitating. After a while, she didn't say anything, and Ethan's face gradually changed, his eyes squinting.

"Don't you like the idea of me traveling with you?"

Ines found his expression amusing and suddenly said, "We may be married and together every day, but I need some me-time occasionally. If I have time to travel, I'd like to go alone."

"Ines, isn't it nice to have company? I'd follow your lead, won't affect you at all."

"Alright, don't scowl now. I was just messing with you. The last time we went out together, I realized that two's company."

He would arrange everything and all she had to do was enjoy. She could even sleep on the beach without a care in the world, something she'd never dared to do when she was alone.

At this thought, Ines broke into a smile.

"Really?"

Ines nodded, "To prove I'm not lying, I'll give you a kiss."

With that, Ines planted a kiss on Ethan's lips. He thought it'd be a quick peck, but she kissed him for quite a while. He glanced at the shoes on the rack, hesitated for a moment, and deepened their kiss.

When they pulled apart, Ines clung to Ethan, like she couldn't bear to let go. It was rare for Ethan to see her acting so clingy, he laughed and shook his head.