Suzanne flushed. "Is that going to hold you?"
"Terrific," he said. He ate quickly and stood. "I've got to go."
"Hold on." She came close and picked a blonde hair from his shirt.
"Don't want you getting caught."
"No," Oliver said.
"Will you come back?" she asked softly.
"Are you kidding? As soon as I can."
She hugged him as though he were breakable. "I'll be waiting." It was almost an apology.
He ran one hand down her hair and the compound curve of her back. "Save that kiss for next time," he said.
"That one and a couple more."
He left with difficulty and drove home. Jennifer was on a day trip to see her mother; she wouldn't be back with Emma until six or so. Woof met him at the door, sniffing at his clothes with extra interest. "Just between us," Oliver said, rubbing her ears. He changed clothes immediately. By the time Jennifer and Emma got home, he had baked an acorn squash, started a fire, done two loads of laundry, and split more wood. Celtic music was playing.