that “weighty pause” on his end was processing that exact thing you mentioned . . . But it wasn’t quite working and felt like too much, so both Aiden and I figured we’d put a pin in that
I figured as much. It’s a natural consequence of the one-sided perspective mode you’ve chosen, and Aiden’s instinct (and yours) was correct. It wasn’t the right time.
Aiden’s also grown up a little, in that one of the hardest things to do in a relationship is let someone else do for you (especially when it revolves around a secret kink you’ve been ashamed to share for so long). Concern for Evie’s physical safety aside, he finally gave in to the moment. That was nice to see (as Evie would readily attest).
Speaking of secrets, I’m worried sick that there might be no way to prevent Camila from venting her frustration by blabbing to others about Evie’s condition. If she were a more mature and empathetic person, Aiden might have been able to explain his kink to Camila and thus assure her that there’s no need to worry about him, but she’s proven that her “concern” is wholly insincere and self-serving and that attempting to appeal to her better nature is futile. If only Diego had some kind of leverage over her…
“What’s Evie doing with that banana?”
“It’s not a banana, I’m just happy to see her.”