chapter 6

Tuesday afternoon Dean arrived at Olivia’s house at three thirty for his visit with Eli. His plans for horse riding were a washout because of the heavy rainfall most of the day. He was glad it had eased as he left his car and walked to Olivia’s porch.

She met him at the door and let him inside, where awkward “hello’s” were exchanged.

“Eli should be along in a few minutes.” She said. He looked out the window. “Since it is wet outside, maybe I should go pick him up?”

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you.”

He turned to look at her. She smiled at him. It was the first real smile he’d received from her since his arrival. He had to admit it warmed him from the chill of the weather.

“Ive been told that a soon to be nine-year-old boy quite enjoys walking in the rain.” She explained. “He’s also told me that he is no longer a baby.”

“Then im glad you stopped me from making a serious error and insulting our son’s budding manhood.” Dean said.

Just then, Eli came bursting through the door with laugh