Chapter 22

Jules wrapped his scarf around his face and pushed his way into the windy clearing, picking up Belle rather than letting her trek through the thick snow. She trembled in his arms and he wanted to get her inside quickly. He saw no lights shining in Felix’s windows, but the moonlight showed him the way.

“Come on, Belle. Let’s go take care of my man.” At least he hoped Felix was his.

When he arrived at Felix’s door, his pants were wet and he was freezing. Nobody ever locked their doors on the island or at the North Pole, so he turned the handle and entered the house.

“Felix?” His voice echoed in the empty room. Jules took in the tidy little combo living/kitchen area that made up the first floor. He flipped a switch and the track lighting over the kitchen area came on, illuminating the mess on the table. He unhooked the leash and set down Belle. She instantly busied herself sniffing along the kitchen floor in search of crumbs invisible to the human eye.