*Eric*

Under the shade of a sturdy oak tree, a cool breeze rushes over my forehead. It draws my attention away from applying the final coat of wax to my dining room table. I use the moment to admire the house I've been building for so long, and then my thoughts drift to Hattie.

I can almost feel the heat of her presence, that wild energy radiating from her. Hattie's red hair----bold and untamed. It's flame--like in the way it catches the light, and makes me want to run ...