She and Chess lounged side by side on his couch. The room was dark, lit only by the black-and-white film playing on the television. She cuddled into the chenille throw that Chess had placed over her. “I fell asleep?” Chess touched her arm. “Mm-hmm. Poor thing, you were exhausted.” “I guess.” The day at the work and the evening’s fun and games had tuckered her out. She smothered a yawn. “Sorry.” Bailey was tired too, snoozing next to the couch. “What time is it?” Mia asked. “Not quite nine thirty.” “Oh.” How embarrassing to conk out so early. “What are you watching?” “Just an old movie.” Feeling cozy by his side, her brain still a bit muzzy, she snuggled against him. Peering again at the television, she recognized the movie at once. “Oh, Laura.” “You’ve seen it?” he asked. “Lots of times,” Mia answered. “But I love it.” As they watched the rest of the film silently, Chess draped his arm around Mia’s side, pulling her closer.
