Geoff headed to the small cabin he and Teddy called home. He pounded the snow off his boots and went inside, where he took off his boots, placed them on the rack next to the door, and walked to Teddy’s study.
Teddy sat at his computer, inputting data and making calculations. Geoff struggled to understand the financial side of their business and was happy to let Teddy do it.
“Our guest is settled in, and I think he’s going to take a nap before dinner,” Geoff said.
“Sounds good,” Teddy said.
Geoff wrapped his arms around Teddy and squeezed. He placed his face close to Teddy’s hair and inhaled, letting the scent of his coconut shampoo permeate his senses. Geoff closed his eyes and cherished the moment. It was the little things.
Teddy ran his hand up and down Geoff’s arm, tickling the hairs.
“I’ve invited him to join us for dinner,” Geoff said.
“You did, huh?” Teddy looked up, grinning.
“He’s by himself, and you said we had plenty.” Geoff leaned down and kissed him.
“You’re a sweet man.”
“What are you going to make for dinner?” Geoff asked.
“I was thinking of making lasagna with garlic bread.”
“Perfect.”
“After dinner, we can have hot chocolate with s’mores and watch a movie.” Teddy turned around in his chair and smiled up at Geoff.
“Hot chocolate, s’mores, and cuddling up for a movie sounds like the best date night I could ask for,” Geoff said.
“I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
“I’m going to take a walk.” Geoff gave him one more kiss.
“Have fun,” Teddy said.
Geoff grabbed his copy ofThe Girl on the Train,bundled up, threw on his hiking bag, and headed out back.
The small path, which had expanded from years of tourists walking for exercise, went in a larger circle. It started on one side of the backyard and ended on the other.
Geoff walked down the dirt trail, snow drifting down onto the trees, rocks, and the path. It was a beautiful scene. He loved the outdoors. The fresh air, the smell of the trees and moss, and even the earth itself. Everything about nature centered him.
I wish Teddy would join me more.
The rustling of bushes and movement of animals outside his vision kept Geoff alert. Animals rarely ventured onto the trail, but it wasn’t impossible. Geoff always carried bear spray, a first-aid kit, and his cell phone.
He made his way down to his favorite spot. The large rock sat against a tree a dozen feet off the trail. It was large enough for him to sit on, lean against the tree, and read.
Geoff took up residence on the rock before putting his reading glasses on and opening the book, quickly getting lost in the pages.
He didn’t know how much time had passed, but he was at a good stopping point, so he headed back home.
The smell of pasta sauce and beef met him at the door. He inhaled the aroma and grinned. Teddy was an amazing cook.
After putting his house shoes on, he walked into the kitchen, where he found Teddy busy at the stove.
“That smells amazing, babe.”
“Come taste it.” Teddy held out a wooden spoon.
