Chapter 66

The older man smiled and resumed climbing the stairs. It didn’t take long to reach a suite of rooms that rivaled my grandparents’ for luxury although it was more compact. He pointed the way to the bathroom. “The shower is in there, young man. Erm…do you know how to work the taps?”

“I can manage.”

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to sound condescending.”

“Not condescending, sir.

Mr. Sayer raised his hand to pat my shoulder, but I backed away from him. “Sorry,” he said again.

“No, I’m sorry. It will take some time before I get used to human contact again.”

“Take as much time as you need. I’ll find some clean clothes for you.”

“Thank you.” Although I was fairly sure he wouldn’t be able to find anything that fit me. “I…I really wasn’t looking forward to putting these back on.”

“Am I correct in assuming they aren’t yours?”

I nodded, and the lines around his eyes creased in a smile that was warm with reminiscence.