With his coat unhooked from the antlers and flung across his arm, he stood contemplating, a furrow of perplexity between his eyes.
"If I—I hadn't promised—"
"You go. I guess it won't be the last evening I spend alone."
"Yes it will, hon."
"I know, I know."
He buttoned his coat and stooped over her, the smell of damp exuding from his clothes.
"Just you lay down in the front room till I get back, Mil. Here, look at some of these new fashion books I brought home. I'll be back early, hon, and maybe wake you and the kid up with—with a surprise."
"Quit!"
"Just a French kiss, hon."
She raised a cold face. He tilted her head backward and pressed his lips to hers, then went out, closing the door lightly behind him.