Page 43 of Hot Shot
“Is that something that happens a lot?” We haven’t really talked about living here and while the weather probably isn’t that different from where my parents live, Gannon Byrd’s property butts up to the shoreline of Parry Sound.
“In winter a bit. But this place is set up for it. There’s the wood pile to keep us warm if the power goes out. The generator runs basics like the refrigerator, but not the furnace, so good old fashion wood has the job of heating this place covered.”
“Do we need to get more wood? I haven’t noticed a wood pile.”
“It’s in the garage. Well, around the back of it.” He moves to the fridge and opens it. “Are you hungry? Want me to make us something for lunch?”
“Around the back of the garage?”
“Huh.” He glances over his shoulder. “Oh, yeah, the garage is split in two. Front section is for the car, the back is stocked with wood for the fire. Grilled cheese sound good?”
“Yes. Maybe some hot chocolate to go with it?”
“Sure. I can take care of both, you can keep working. I know being here doesn’t mean you don’t have work to do.”
“More reading than anything. Making notes, questions about players to bring up at our next meeting. It’ll be the first big one with Walker at the table.”
“Want to share who you’re looking at? I might be able to answer some questions.”
“No. I’m good for now. Just narrowing down a list of players to begin with. More about their positions and stats at this stage.”
“Well, let me know if I can help in any way.”
“Making lunch is helping.”
He gives me a smile, one that doesn’t quite reach his eyes. “Sure. Give me ten and it’ll be ready.”
I don’t know what the sad look is for. He’s been doing it all morning so I know it’s not because I just rejected his help. I haven’t asked if there’s something wrong because I’m frightened he’s going to tell me to go. It’s an irrational fear because he hasn’t said anything about me leaving. Not even the day I arrived.
Hell, he sort of blackmailed me into staying for the week.
It has to be the lack of sleep messing with my head.
If Bran wanted me gone, he’d tell me. He’s shown he’s capable of shoving me out of his life already; I doubt he’d struggle to do it now.
“You want marshmallows with your chocolate?”
“Is there any other way to have it?”
“No. I just wasn’t sure if you wanted it since we’re having grilled cheese.”
“I’ll never pass up marshmallows with hot chocolate. It’s the only way to drink it and yes that comes from experience. I have a supply of them to go with my chocolate at home. Never have one without the other in my house.”
“Same.” He reaches into the cupboard and pulls out two large mugs. “Want to eat outside or in here? Can you take a break from what you’re doing?”
“I can. I’ll grab a hoodie to put on. Unless you’re going to turn the heaters on.”
“You planning to go straight back to work after lunch?”
“Yes.”
“Then grab the hoodie. I was going to get some washing done after lunch so I’ll be inside too.”
“Okay if I toss some of my stuff in the wash with yours?”
“How much have you got? I’ve let mine go a bit long so I have a least a full load.”
“Only a couple of things.”
