Chapter 6

Dane made a sound of agreement.

They walked a while longer, turning into a darker side street.

“Life is strange, isn’t it?” said Dane.

“Why’s that?”

“With all my newfound freedom, I haven’t the slightest desire to do anything with it.”

“You’re too settled. You’re a cocooner.”

“A cocooner?” Dane grinned. “Is that even a word?”

Ryan laughed. “I think so. It is now, anyway.”

“What does it mean?”

“It means you’re happy in your own environment. Content to stay at home, in your cocoon. Granted, it’s a damned fine cocoon with a huge swimming pool. You know I love that pool. And I can’t say I haven’t enjoyed being in the cocoon with you, because I have.” He paused. “Maybe a little too much.”

Dane, although overjoyed to hear that Ryan liked being at home with him, was puzzled by the final comment. “Too much?” he asked, trying hard to mask his curiosity.

“Yeah. I haven’t been going out either. I can’t remember the last time I went to a club or a pub or a party.”