“Of course, silly. That’s why we’re here, isn’t it?”
I slid the key into the familiar lock. Even the feel of it was the same in my hands as I turned the handle and pushed the door open. We walked through the silent house, turning on lights and opening windows. It had weathered the years well. It was well decorated but comfy, not stuffy. My mom had a knack for that. We walked through the large kitchen and through the French doors to the deck.
I slid my arms around her from behind, staring out at the waves.
“What do you think, sweetheart? Could you call this home? At least some of the time? I’m not sure I could sell it.”
She pinched my arm and I smiled.
“What was that for?”
“If you sell this place, I will divorce you.”
I laughed.
“I guess I’d better not sell it then.”
“Oh, Shane, it’s wonderful.”
“It is, isn’t it?”
“Do you think we could do it? Come back and forth? I wouldn’t want to leave my friends behind for good.”
“I know,” I said, squeezing her carefully. “It’s a great place to spend summers. And Christmas,” I added. “If you like snow.”
I turned her to face me, still holding her in my arms.
“I’ve never seen snow.”
“Then it’s settled,” I whispered, pulling her close. I was already thinking about what came next. It was a good time to christen my childhood bedroom, I decided. Unless she needed a nap. The baby took a lot out of her.
“Christmas in Rhode Island.”
She nodded.
“I can’t wait. It’s so beautiful here. The house . . . the ocean . . . I think it’s the most beautiful thing in the whole world.”
“You’re wrong.”
“About what?”
“I’m looking at the most beautiful thing in the whole world.”
She blushed and I squeezed her.
“You really have no idea, do you?”
“I have ideas,” she said, looking indignant.
“Like what?”
“I was thinking . . . it’s been a long drive. I would love to lie down.” She blushed a little deeper. “Together.”
“Woman, you read my mind.” I held her waist with one arm, steering her back toward the house. “How do you feel about twin beds?”