Trying to be absolutely silent, Jill tiptoed into the Castle. The side Castle door made a click then a solid ‘thunk’ when she turned the deadbolt. She slipped off her Dansko clogs and picked them up. Turning into the living room, she saw Honey and MJ snuggling on the couch. The blazing fire cast a dance of light and shadow on the lovers. MJ smiled at Jill when she waved a clog at him. She moved through the room to the main kitchen then up the stairwell to her loft home. The loft door closed with a satisfying click. Relieved to finally be home, Jill leaned against the door. She set her clogs down and noticed that all the bedroom doors were closed or partially closed. Only Katy’s bedroom door had a light underneath it. Mike must be painting Katy’s room. After using the bathroom, Jill stuck her head in her office. Cleo, Sandy’s much beleaguered cat, was tucked into a tight ball on the couch. Cleo lifted her head to Jill and meowed. Welcoming her warm comfort, Jill picked up Cleo.
