Chapter 74

* * * *

“Home at last,” Daniel said late Monday, as he and Griffin toted his bags into the house. He sniffed. “And no smoke smell.”

“It’s been over a week, and you know Leeds’ people kept the windows at least a bit open to air the place out.”

“I know. I think I was afraid I’d still smell it because, well—”

“A memory thing?” Griffin suggested. “Got you.”

Daniel put down his bags, turning to Griffin. “Yes, you do.”

Griffin arched an eyebrow.

“You have me. Perhaps not every hour of the day—but you do.”

“I know,” Griffin replied, smiling. “Even if we were sharing the house, or my cabin, we wouldn’t be together twenty-four-seven. The only difference between us and normal couples is we have to drive a few miles, instead of walk into the next room, to be together.”

“Barring a major snowstorm.” Daniel shook his head. “That could put a real crimp in things.”

“If I know we’re due for one, I’ll come down here. I’d rather be snowed in with you than alone with the chickens.”