“I hope I didn’t put you out,” Dorothy said as she stood from the couch. “I promise, you’ll never put me out. I’ll always open my door to you—anytime.” He set the sheets on the couch. “My tea is cold. Can I offer you another cup?” “Oh, I’ll be up using the bathroom all night, but you know, I’d really appreciate another cup. I’ll come in with you.” She followed him to the kitchen and made herself at home at the kitchen table. “She’s lovely, Clayton.” He smiled to himself as he filled the teapot. “She is, isn’t she?” “Very strong willed I think.” Now he chuckled. “Very.” “You’re going to marry her, aren’t you?” He wasn’t sure what he was supposed to do with that question. Her voice was solid, but how did he tell this woman that yes, in fact, he’d thought about it a lot. He set the teapot on the stove and turned to face her. “I don’t know what to do with the thoughts I have on that. Linda has been gone for two years. Her husband has only been gone for four months.”
