Chapter 42

• Patrick lay propped on his side when the others arrived, Rhonda snuggled against his chest. None of the others gave them a second glance. Cora was lying on the couch with Dade sitting by her head. Lengthy, long-distant communications were exhausting. He was pleasantly surprised the two women managed as long as they did. He felt pride as well, but then again, this group constantly made him feel proud and humble, just by being among them as their friend.
• Lass you need to at least roll over and join the happy group.
• She snuggled closer to him. But I’m so damn comfortable, Pat, and relaxed, it’s been a long time. Despite her words to him, she wiggled around and slowly moved to her other side. Cora grinned over at her from her place on the couch. “Hey,” she whispered.