Lost Soul

Chapter 12

Mike had worked hard on planning his date night with Christine, and had even gone as far as getting a night in a hotel. He didn't want to pressure Christine but it would be nice to have one on one time with his wife now that she was recovered. She was focused now and had mentioned having a baby several times. Mike would have preferred to wait until Josie was a bit older, but there was no guarantee that Christine would even be able to get pregnant or that it would be easy. Mike did want to give her what she wanted though.

He had explained to the girls what he was doing and had taken them to the store to pick out a nice outfit for Christine. It was a nice day out with just the older girls and Mike was planning on taking both of them out by themselves. He didn't want either of them to think that he was only interested in Josie. He spoiled both girls, buying them several outfits and entirely too much make up for his liking. His baby girls were growing up and he didn't like it.

The day of the date, Christine came out wearing the outfit the girls had picked out for her. It was a pretty floral, knee length dress, complete with a sweater and ballet type flights. Her hair was done in soft curls and her make-up was light and very tasteful. Mike gave her a soft kiss on the lips before giving Josie to Kaitlyn.

"You look so beautiful. Do you have your overnight bag?" Mike asked. Christine handed him the tote bag that also had his clothes packed in.

"Yep. I'm ready to go." Christine said with a smile. She leaned over and gave Hannah, Kaitlyn and Josie a kiss on the forehead before giving Elizabeth a hug. Something was whispered between them but Mike was busy kissing his daughters and didn't pay any attention. He gave Christine his free arm and walked her out to the truck. He helped her in and they began the hour drive to a bigger city. Dinner was at a semi-private steakhouse and Christine and Mike both ordered steaks, shrimp, baked potatoes and salad. Christine was fairly quiet through the dinner and Mike was afraid he had something wrong.

"Are you okay? You're kind of quiet. I hope this hasn't been too much?" Mike asked.

"No, no. It's all been amazing. I've enjoyed it a lot." Christine answered.

"If you'd rather we didn't go to the hotel, we can just go home. If you're too tired…" Mike remarked and Christine took a drink of her red wine.

"No. I really want to go to the hotel." Christine replied.

"What's bothering you then?" Mike asked.

"Just worried…I don't look quite the same as I did." Christine finally answered and Mike nodded.

"Neither do I. If you don't want to do anything more than sleep; we don't have to. I don't want you to feel pressured." Mike offered.

"I don't. I just…we'll just have to see what happens. I don't want to disappoint you." Christine answered and Mike reached over and took her hand.

"You couldn't if you tried. Seriously, don't worry about a thing. Now; would you like some dessert?" Mike asked.

"Maybe share a piece of the chocolate lava cake?" Christine suggested and Mike nodded in agreement. He ordered the cake and a refill of their wine as well as coffee for both of them. Christine remained fairly quiet while they ate the dessert but smiled at Mike several times. They walked back to the hotel, hand-in-hand; talking about the live music and an art fest. Christine was a little nervous and Mike could tell so he didn't hurry her. Her mind was made up even if Mike was afraid it was too soon. The hotel room was very luxurious and Christine had already mentioned taking a long bath in the tub.

"If you'd like to go ahead and take your bath; I can draw it for you." Mike offered. He helped Christine out of her jacket and hung it up for her.

"That would be really nice if you would. Thanks." Christine said. She gave Mike another smile and a kiss on the lips before he went into the bathroom. A moment later, she joined him in just a robe and waited while the water filled and Mike lit some candles.

"Do you need me to help you in?" Mike asked. He still worried about Christine balancing herself on the tile.

"You'd probably better. I'd also like for you to join me." Christine said as she took the robe off. Mike was surprised at her request but Christine gave him a long kiss. "Please? And before you ask, I'm ready." Christine said.

"Alright." Mike agreed. He helped Christine into the bathtub, undressed and got in with her. Baths were not his thing but he didn't mind it too much especially when Christine settled on his lap and gave him another long kiss. It was just the beginning of a fresh start for them.