142 A heart difficult to read

«Wife, let's go eat!» Alexander exclaims after jumping out of nowhere.

«I was headed there,» I say. It's almost time for lunch.

«Aren't you feeling cold?»

«I'm fine.»

I'm well covered by my shawl and woollen undergarments. Is he the one feeling cold, perhaps?

«Why are you asking?»

«I'm just worried about my wife. Is it forbidden?»

«You didn't talk to me for a week. Don't even think about recuperating in a single day. You'll just get on my nerves.»

«I would have hugged you to warm you if you said yes.»

«You were looking for an excuse.»

«Correct.»

It seems we're back to normal.

«You can hug me if you need it so much,» I mumble. «I'll endure the hassle.»

His hands immediately land on me, and he drags me in a clumsy embrace. I cross my arms and pretend not to be enjoying the warm contact, waiting for him to let go.

«Is this enough?» I ask when I understand it won't be just a short hug.