Page 55 of Kian

“I understand where you’re coming from. I’m forty-two myself.”

“Yeah, I remember you mentioning your age.”

“I just meant that I understand not wanting to wait too long for marriage and kids.”

“I think you would make an amazing father.”

“If I can be half the father that mine is, I’ll be happy.”

“You seem very close with your family.”

“Yes, we are a tight-knit bunch. I can’t wait to see them again. It bothers me that my absence caused them concern.”

“I’m sure they understand the circumstances. Well, I finished up here so I’m going to take a shower. Won’t take me long.”

“Alright, I’ll be here when you’re done.” He smiled as he grabbed some eggs from the fridge.

****

Monday morning, Kian stood at the sink in the kitchen, staring out at the melting snow holding a cup of coffee. He was so anxious to get home, but he knew he’d miss Gretchen.

He glanced over his shoulder when she entered the room and made her way to the coffee machine.

“Morning,” he said.

“Good morning.” She placed her cup under the spout and pushed brew, then looked at him. He grinned when a blush moved through her cheeks.

“Why are you blushing? Sweetheart, I’ve been over every inch of you, so you shouldn’t blush anymore.”

“Stop. You enjoy teasing me.”

“And you don’t like teasing me? Come on. Last night—”

“No. Just no.”

Kian laughed. “Alright. I just wanted to make sure you wouldn’t forget about me.”

“That will not happen. It’s the other way around.”

“Gretchen, I won’t. I just want you to know that it may be a few days or longer before I can get back in touch with you. I’ll have to get a new phone, then call you, though you won’t know until you take a walk.”

“I will every day until I hear from you. I want to make sure you’re okay.”

“Alright. Killian has your number in his phone and his is in yours. If you can’t get in touch with me, send him a text.”

“I don’t want to bother him.”

“You won’t. If you happen to go into town, come to the offices and look for me. I’m going to be busy, but I will never be too busy for you.” He kissed her lips. “I promise.”

“Okay. I’ll be patient, though it is not one of my virtues.” She shook her head. “I hate sounding so clingy. That’s not me.”

“I know. It’s fine.”

“Is it? What if when you go back, you realize it was only because we were stuck here together?”

“I think I’d know if that were the case. I’m a grown man, I like being with you and I’d know if it were just because of being here and you saving me.” He tilted his head. “I could say the same about you.”

“Nope. I’m not a fickle woman. I’ve been on my own for a while. I’d know too.”

---