She did a double take. “Sorry. Come again?”
“I’ve been studying for the police exam. Thought I might try my luck in Toronto if it goes well.”
Elaine didn’t say anything for a moment, and her mouth hung open. Her forehead creased, but she rearranged her features. “Oh. That’s great.”
“I’ve been feeling a need to get away.”
“Of course. I understand. The police, huh? I’m proud of you, Connor. You’ll be the best cop on the force. How did Ryland take it?”
“So much has happened in the past year. I don’t think he was happy, but he understands too.”
If he didn’t know any better, he would swear her lip quivered.
Andy lumbered out of his bedroom and down the hall. Plopping himself down next to his mother, he said, “Is Daddy coming home too?”
Elaine kissed his head. In that moment, she seemed to age. Her blue eyes lost some sparkle. She whispered to Connor, “We have this conversation a lot.”
Ignoring the sting of pain under his ribs, he picked Andy up and put him on his knee. “Hey, buddy. Your mom has had a long day. How about you and me and Layla head over to the lodge kitchen? I know for a fact Uncle Ryland keeps his stash of peanut butter cup ice cream in the freezer there.”
“I love peanut butter.”
Connor rolled his eyes in jest. “Yeah, I know. Go get your sister and put on your coats.”
The little guy ran down the hallway, shouting for Layla.
“That’s very kind of you,” said Elaine, “but you don’t have to take the kids. I know they have tough questions. I can handle them.”
“I know you can. I just want ice cream.” He grinned. “I’m pretty sure I can get my hands on four bowls. We’d love for you to join us.”
“I’ll come. I want to say hi to everyone, and I don’t think I’m ready to be in this cabin by myself.”
“You don’t ever have to be alone. Say the word and I’ll be here.” Connor stood and pulled her into an embrace. “Welcome home, lady.”
She mumbled her thanks into the front of his sweater, burying her face. Connor closed his eyes. His mountain lion sniffed at her hair, pleased with her scent.
Roses. She smelled like summer roses. It was nice. One drag of her and he could almost feel winter’s grip peeling away. He took a big breath and then another.
It was only when the children raced out of their bedrooms that Connor realized he and Elaine had been clinging to each other.
