John watched as Mitch squatted in front of the fire and coaxed the flames into life. Again, the man’s movements seemed deft, unhurried, and graceful. John took a gulp of his hot chocolate, uncomfortable with the direction his thoughts were going.
“There, think that’ll hold,” Mitch said, looking at John from over his shoulder.
John smiled. “Come and get your hot chocolate while it’s still, uh, hot.”
“I’ll just wash my hands first,” Mitch said, disappearing off into the dark kitchen.
John was about to remind him to take a candle but guessed the man knew what he was doing.
On returning, Mitch smiled down at him and asked, “Feeling any warmer yet?”
John nodded, disconcerted by the man’s obvious concern. “Yes, thanks.”
John watched Mitch settle himself at the other end of the sofa and pi
