Character Q&A Couples Edition: Malcolm & Esme

I’m seated at one of the stools surrounding Malcolm’s kitchen island in his Manhattan apartment. Across from me sits Malcolm, and just beyond him, floor-to-ceiling windows frame the city skyline. The orange glow of the setting sun stretches between the buildings, painting the apartment in warm light that feels almost cinematic.

“I’m so sorry I’m late,” Esme says as she steps inside, setting her purse down before leaning over to kiss Malcolm on the lips. She pulls out the stool beside him and smiles at me. “The last day of school is always interesting. My students and their parents never really let me leave. They say goodbye… but they never actually mean it.”

I assure her it’s perfectly fine.

Malcolm chuckles.

“Well, I’m not complaining. You can take as long as you want. Knowing I’ll have you all to myself for the next two and a half months is a pretty good reward.”

Esme blushes, and the two exchange one of those quiet looks that says everything without either of them speaking.

It’s almost enough to make me forget why I’m here.

Almost.