Bellinger Sisters, #1
It Happened One Summer
by Tessa Bailey
Contents
Chapter Six
Overview
After the fraught meeting, Rosie confides in Bethany and considers extreme couples counseling as Dominic seeks another chance. The next morning at the gym, Dominic’s quiet care is revealed, their chemistry nearly overwhelms them, and a raw conversation exposes his mindset. Despite initial resistance, Dominic agrees to last-ditch therapy, setting their marriage on a deliberate path to repair.
Summary
In the quiet after the meeting, Rosie helps Bethany and Georgie clean up, still reeling from Dominic’s surprise plea for another chance. Banter gives way to honesty as Rosie admits Dominic asked her to come home and that, despite their explosive chemistry, she no longer finds the marriage emotionally fulfilling. Bethany suggests last-ditch couples therapy, an idea Rosie both fears and considers.
That night, Rosie can’t sleep. At dawn she heads to the gym, noticing her red coat has mysteriously appeared at Bethany’s and her car seat is warm, hinting at Dominic’s unseen presence. On the treadmill, she spots Dominic lifting; their mutual attraction surges, and he approaches, stoking the tension.
Pressed against the wall, Rosie nearly gives in, but stops short, demanding answers about the coat. Dominic admits he returned it but hates taking credit for basic care because he feels it’s never enough. This glimpse into his thinking reassures Rosie that he isn’t indifferent, but she insists that real communication is essential.
Rosie proposes last-ditch therapy. Dominic initially bristles and blames the club’s influence, prompting Rosie to walk away. He catches up, and after a beat, agrees to therapy, surprising Rosie with his resolve. He leaves determined, and Rosie recognizes that they’ve committed to a serious attempt—Vega marriage, round two.
Who Appears
- Rosie VegaSeparated wife; considers last-ditch therapy, resists pure physical reconciliation, demands communication, and secures Dominic’s agreement to counseling.
- Dominic VegaHusband seeking another chance; quietly returns Rosie’s coat, stokes intense chemistry, reveals insecurities, and agrees to couples therapy.
- Bethany CastleRosie’s friend and host; prompts the idea of extreme, last-ditch couples counseling and urges honest reflection.
- Georgie CastleBethany’s sister; provides comic relief during cleanup, then departs before deeper conversation.