He knelt on the porch and wrapped her in his arms. He didn’t understand why everyone made such a big deal, gasping and wincing when she gave out her hugs. She was always gentle with Jimmy, and her hugs transferred a feeling of warmth he often found puzzling. It reminded him of the way his mother used to hold him. He’d been safe in her arms and her love flowed like a regenerative force that supplied strength. The same effect came in the small embrace of Catherine. When she hugged him, Jimmy knew everything would be all right. “How are you today, Catherine?” “Fantastic, now that you’re here. Samuel is such a poop. He won’t let me do anything fun. You know how much I like to go outside and say hello to all my friends.” “I know. That’s why I’m here. May I come inside?” Her impish smile spread across the tiny landscape of her face. She grasped his hand and hauled him into the living room where Samuel and Ginger were speaking quietly together.
