I paced Linden's living room for ten minutes, coiling my hair into a twist and then shaking it out and starting over several times. I couldn't get it right but that was due to the fact I was busy studying the knickknacks and photos on Linden's bookshelves. And the books, of course.Allllllthe books.
I couldn't get the twist right but I knew Linden's family was adorable, his beautiful sister was recently married, and he was a massiveLord of the Ringsfan.Massivedidn't even cut it.
I'd lost track of all the different editions he had of the same books. Hardcover, paperback, movie tie-in covers, specialty covers, illustrated, annotated, translated.
When I refocused on the wall beside the bookshelves, I realized the quartet of framed watercolors weren't random landscapes but scenes from the books. This guy adoredLord of the Ringsand it was a revelation because he seemed like the type of person who made a point of not going hog wild over anything. He had interests, sure, but nothing bordering on fanaticism.
I tore off his note and grabbed the pen he'd left nearby.
Linden,
Nothing about you is small but yet you choose to live in this cozy bungalow. Are you secretly living out a Hobbit fantasy? Is this your Shire, Bilbo Baggins?
As for your commentary on my pies, I'm concerned you don't know much about baked goods. The cupcakes in your fridge will change your mind.
How's your sister?
Thanks for the water.
~J
* * *
Jasper.
Those were not cupcakes. They weren't cake of any kind. Are you using some kind of WWII-era cookbook where the ordinary ingredients are replaced with the things they didn't need to ration? Or is it a dietary thing? Is this stuff gluten-free? Or vegan? That frosting had the disappointing flavor of carob.
Not sure if I've mentioned this enough but you don't have to bake anything. I would appreciate fewer treats to choke down.
It should come as no surprise I enjoy putting big things in small, tight places. If I wanted a Hobbit fantasy, I would've installed a round door. Good catch though.
My sister is pregnant with twins and happily miserable about it. Apparently she misses beer, not that I remember her drinking much of it before the pregnancy.
I have residential appointments in town all day. I'll head out around nine or nine thirty at the latest, and be back around five.
–L
* * *
Linden,
Pregnant with twins allows her to be happily miserable. Is this your first time around as an uncle?
Is it possible you don't have a taste for sweets? Could that be it? Because everything I bake cannot be dreadful. While you have said the baked goods aren't strictly necessary, I am honor bound to recognize your hospitality. You'll have to put up with the molasses cookies I've made for you today.
Also, please don't feel obligated to give me your hours. If I don't see your truck in the drive during the workday, I'll assume you're out for a bit.
I am curious, however, about your thinly veiled commentary about big things in small places. Seems like an intentional choice, no? Is there something specific you're getting at?
~ J
* * *
Jasper.
Did I hear you running a saw this morning? What are you building now?
The cookies had no sugar in them. Not a single grain. Can you tell me if this is an alternative lifestyle thing? Are you still cooking everything in a crockpot? Because that's not helping matters.
