So many of the houses were colonial. He had the feeling of being in two vastly different eras. Realizing that he’d been holding Darlene’s hand tightly, he loosened his grip. “What’s the matter?” she asked, her face bearing an expression of concern. He was about to say “Nothing,” but he knew that wasn’t true. “Let’s talk when we get back home. Right now, I want to experience this city. It’s so different from the South. It seems more like New England.” “Old Frederick is, because it’s about the same as it was in the late eighteenth century. I’m glad you’re enjoying it. I never have time to appreciate its history, so this is a treat for me, too.” At Patrick Street, they strolled over to Canal Street, where she’d parked her car. “Let’s go home, Darlene.” She gazed up at him with an inquiring expression, then evidently decided not to question him and took out her car keys. “Okay.” He held her hand as they walked into the house. He led her to the living room.
