When they got home Mr. Magee was overjoyed to see them. The dog had gone to Emory first. Cam, who was a believer in signs and portents, took the dog’s enthusiastic greeting for Emory as confirmation that his decision to let his feelings for the man flow freely was correct. Cam felt it further confirmation when Emory said he’d like to come with Cam on Mr. Magee’s dog walk. The men and dog strolled along the beach, Mr. Magee contentedly sniffing while Emory and Cam talked about the beauty of the night as the stars twinkled overhead and the crickets chirped in the brush. Cam’s heart sang when Emory took hold of his hand as they walked.
They arrived back at the house and Cam went to retrieve the bathing suits they had worn earlier.
“Forget those,” Emory said, the now familiar evil grin on hi
