Holding On by Karen Stivali

from Daniel’s hands.
    Marienne shivered.
    “Go on inside while I park. I’ll be there in a minute.”
    She nodded and followed the doorman into the lobby.
    Marienne sat down on one of the couches and waited for Daniel to return. The lobby looked exactly like she remembered it—beautiful atrium with tall glass windows, open all the way to the top floor. She couldn’t believe Daniel had arranged for them to spend their anniversary at the same hotel where they’d been married. So many good memories. All their friends gathered to wish them well. Ella in her beautiful gown. The whole night was like a dream come true. She’d felt like the luckiest woman in the world that night, but tonight she felt even luckier.
    The baby thumped on her belly, and she rubbed her hand against the kicks. “You have such a wonderful father.”
    “And a wonderful mother as well,” Daniel said.
    Marienne jumped at the sound of his voice. “I didn’t even see you come in.”
    “I was just watching you talk to our baby.” He placed his hand next to hers. The baby tapped twice in reply. “See, we’re all excited about our evening.”
    The smile on Daniel’s face made her wonder what else he was up to. She sensed a bit of mischief in his eyes. Maybe he’s just looking forward to the honeymoon suite. She braced her arm on the back of the couch to push herself up. He cupped her elbow to help. Not that I can be much fun in this condition. She grimaced.
    “What’s wrong?” he asked.
    “Nothing. I’m just thinking I had a much more appealing figure the last time we were here.”
    Daniel’s hand traced its way around her back. “I can’t imagine anything more appealing than your figure.” His eyes glowed as he leaned in to kiss her. “Come, let’s go check in.”
    The elevator went past the floor where they’d stayed on their wedding night. Marienne was surprised he hadn’t booked the same suite. It was lovely and overlooked the koi pond in the atrium. She didn’t care. Any room where she got to spend the night alone with Daniel was absolutely fine with her.
    They followed the bellboy down the long hallway. He stopped at the door at the end. Daniel’s lips twitched into a smile again. She narrowed her eyes, but he said nothing.
    The door to their room swung open and he placed his hand on her back to usher her inside. It took her breath away. The suite they had stayed in previously was spacious but this room was palatial. Her jaw dropped as she saw the fireplace and the baby grand piano in the lavish sitting area. There was a long polished dining room table and a full kitchen.
    “Should I put your bags in the bedroom?” the bellboy asked.
    “Yes, please,” Daniel answered.
    “I can’t believe you,” she said.
    His face bloomed into a full grin. He handed the bellboy some folded up bills.
    “Enjoy your evening.”
    “We will.” Daniel took Marienne’s hand. “Want to see the bedroom?”
    She gasped when she saw the canopy bed. “Oh my God, I didn’t even know they had a room like this. And the flowers.” There were centerpieces just like the ones from their wedding all around the room. “You’re amazing.” Her eyes filled with tears.
    “Don’t cry.” He swept a finger beneath her eye to catch the one tear that had leaked out. He kissed her, his fingers massaging the back of her neck. He rubbed his nose against hers. “You okay?”
    She nodded, not trusting her voice.
    Daniel checked his watch. “Are you ready to head to dinner?”
    “Yes.” She managed, wiping under her other eye. “Do I look okay?”
    “You look perfect.”
    She reached for her coat but he stopped her. “We’re just going downstairs.”
    “Oh okay.” She followed him into the hallway. She didn’t care where they were headed as long as they were together.
    ****
    Daniel had a hard time keeping the grin off his face. He steered her toward the ballroom.
    She furrowed her brow. “I thought the restaurant was over there.” She pointed