I laughed at his joke.
“I’m going to grab a bite to eat. I should be home in two hours. I need to drop stuff off at the Caylor’s and Sid’s.”
“I’ll give you a bite.”
I couldn’t help but laugh. “I’m counting on it!”
“I’ve missed you.”
“Yes, me too.” I couldn’t help but smile.
“I’ll call you later?”
“Please,” I said, smiling for the first time in days.
It was dark when I dropped off the neighbor’s goods and returned home. It was nice being in town and around people. Temperatures were dropping. I hadn’t planned on being out so late and wasn’t wearing my coveralls. Even on max, the heat in my truck couldn’t keep me warm. Moving around and unloading the truck helped, but I was still cold when I entered the mud room. I stripped off my jacket and shoes, letting them stay where they fell, and walked into the house.
It was warm, almost too warm. There was also a big fire burning in the fireplace. I looked around, wondering if Cyndi had come home. Then I saw a thick, open sleeping bag and all the throw pillows from the sofa and chairs on the floor in front of the fireplace.
“Hi,” he said, emerging from the guest room. He was the most glorious sight I’d ever seen.
“Holy fuck!” I whispered under my breath and crossed the room into his waiting arms. “I can’t believe you’re here.” I was able to get out before his mouth found mine and silenced me.