Chapter 3

“Thanks!” I said.

There was silence for a bit. Then, “I can give you something for the pain, if you like. Demerol.”

I nodded.

“Okay.” He shifted on the cot. “Well, you’re gonna have to roll over then.”

A bit puzzled, I nevertheless complied. The man’s manner, despite evident reserve, had been reassuring. His voice in particular. It was masculine but not rough, and had a gravelly quality that suggested a hidden sadness. It also suggested someone with a good heart, which meant a lot to me in my current state. They say the Arctic makes all men brothers, but my experience had suggested this was not always the case.

“Undo your pants,” he said. After a slight hesitation, I complied. I pushed down my pants and shorts too, so that cool air caressed my ass.