Chapter 81: Predator, Part 1

James

Ah, there he is...

Out beyond the French doors, Klempner stands out on the snow-covered terrace. By his feet, Blackie nudges the hand of the strange, grim man, and he reaches into a pocket, producing some small thing which the dog accepts and swallows.

Can't handle having people around him all the time?

Let's give him some practice...

*****

Klempner

From my viewing-point at the front of the house, I look out, down and all around. The view is glorious. Open fields lead down the mountain to the frozen and snow-covered lake below. In the bright sunshine, the place is startlingly lovely.

But I can't bring myself to relax and enjoy it.

The mountain snowscape is beautiful, yes. Open, beautiful and vulnerable.

The cold bites, penetrating my several layers of clothing and regardless of what I might think of Mitch's sense of humour, I've topped it all off with the hideous garment Mitch gave me for Christmas.