Small Town USA Feeling Whole Again

The next morning, banging at the door woke Julie. She ran to the window and saw Sean's reddish hair and now clear and relaxed face. She opened the door, and then realized she was wearing her nightgown, so she rushed to put on a robe. When she remembered that she didn't bring one, she grabbed her jacket.

Julie couldn't help giving Sean a welcome hug. Sean lightly returned the gesture, but he was holding back. Julie sensed his coolness and it upset her.

"Sean, how are you? You look . . . well . . . better. Are you OK?"

"I'm fine Lassie. How are you? What, are you cold? Why are you wearing a jacket? It seems warm in here."

"I didn't bring a robe."

"Why don't you go change? We should go into town."

Julie went inside to change into her clothes, but kept speaking.

"Did Gutierrez say it was OK for you to come here? Because, honestly, I can take care of myself, you don't have to come here to rescue me."

"I just had a terrible plane ride, with lots of turbulence. They didn't serve a meal and then I had to drive into this stinking town. A thank-you and a cup of coffee will help, Lassie."

Julie walked over to the tiny kitchen. "I can make a cup of instant."

"I guess that will have to do. Do you have some toast? My stomach is a shambles."

"Here's an old bagel and some cream cheese. You could have stopped to eat. I mean the situation wasn't that critical."