The heady aroma of roasted coffee seeps into Klara’s consciousness, slowly awakening her from a dozy state among the crisp sheets Dante had changed last night without even having to be asked. She smiles, keeping her eyes closed to relish the last moments of sleep. He must have walked to Bang Bang while she was still snoozing and bought them both coffees.
Fingers crossed he’s also bought me an almond croissant. Ever since they moved into their dream home in Elsternwick five years ago they’ve been obsessed with the pastries at Bang Bang, their favourite local cafe.
Klara’s hand reaches out to Dante’s side of the bed. Her fingers run up and down the milky white sheets as if she is stroking him, remembering the warmth of his tummy against hers a few nights ago, his stubble tickling the nape of her neck and, better than everything, feeling connected again. Dante seemed ready to try for a baby after weeks of tense conversations and simmering silences.
He had avoided the topic at first but now seemed eager, maybe even a little pushy. Maybe men do have some kind of emotional cycle that isn’t as obvious, or maybe marriage is just like this – cavernous lows and delicious highs…
Unique’