Page 57 of Atlas
“They’re staring,” I muttered when a couple kept looking over as we stood in line for security.
Jolene looked around. “Yeah, they’re probably wondering if you’re the famous real-life Batman they’ve seen on the news.”
“I doubt that many heard about it.”
“Then they’re probably feeling sorry for you. Ignore their pity and look at the bright side; at least you’re the one with the black eye and cracked lip. If I was the one all bruised, people might jump to conclusions and assume you beat me up.”
I jerked my head back and frowned.
“It’s human nature, Atlas. People take one glance and assume they understand a situation. Right now, I’ll bet many are wondering if your black eye is a matter of domestic violence, and I did it to you.”
I snorted. “Tsk, please.”
“Domestic violence happens to men too. I’m telling you. There are many cases of women being violent toward their partners and children. I’m not making it up.”
“I know, but I hate the thought of anyone thinking that way about you. You’re so loving.”
Jolene smiled and touched my shoulder. “That’s a nice thing to say.”
I loved how kinesthetic she was and how natural it was for her to touch me when she spoke to me.
When we boarded the plane, she was like a little kid.
“I can’t believe we’re flying business class. You didn’t have to do that. I usually get the cheapest tickets. These must have been expensive.”
“Jo.” I leaned in and spoke low as passengers moved past us to get to the rear of the plane. “I’m not a man of extravagance. I don’t drink champagne every night or have a private chef to pamper me, but there are a few things that I prioritize. One is to sleep in a comfortable bed at home and in hotels. The other is flying first class on long flights.”
“Have you ever flown coach?”
“Yes.”
“And you didn’t like it?”
“Does anyone? It’s cramped and claustrophobic.”
Jolene looked thoughtful. “Mmhh, if I had the money, I would want to sit up here too.”
An hour later, we were soaring high above the Atlantic Ocean, and I was browsing through movies to watch.
“I wish I could watch a movie, but the doctor told me to avoid screen time.”
“That’s normal if you’ve suffered a concussion.” I looked at her. “Why don’t you try and get some sleep? Your brain needs rest to heal itself.”
“You’re right, but I’m not tired. Maybe I’ll just sit and look out the window for a while.”
I took a peek and figured she would be bored with white clouds fast. I was right.
“Atlas, do you mind if I rest my head on your shoulder?”
“No, of course not. Here, let me lean back my seat so you can cuddle up.”
She gave me a shy smile. “You’re sure that you don’t mind?”
I was more than sure. I’d hoped for this scenario of holding Jolene in my arms again. “Of course. If people around us are assuming that my face is a result of domestic violence, I’d prefer to show them we’re on good terms.”
“Thank you.” She covered herself with a blanket and cuddled up against me while whispering, “That man with the scarf over there did give me a scowl when we first sat down.”
“I believe that man is a woman,” I whispered back, and it made Jolene do a double-take to be sure.
