The frantic energy of his autumn courtship with Samantha was gone entirely.

“Take the main highway south when you leave,” I said.

“The side roads frost over near the bridge this time of year.”

“I will,” Brandon said.

I left him to finish unpacking and walked down the hall to check the brass locks on the front door.

The porch light was already on.

The next few months moved at a slow, steady pace.

The late winter mornings brought a pale, clear light into the house, melting the frost off the driveway.