Page 62 of Let Leaves Lay Where They Fall

“He’s going to need you.” She speaks to Jamie. Then squishes her eyes shut again, “You’ve both been hurt and lonely long enough. It’s time for some joy.”

Nathan feels an ache in his chest.

“B wants you to take care of each other.”

Jamie doesn’t have words but squeezes Nathan’s fingers again.

“Do you have any questions you’d like to ask?” She meets both their eyes.

Neither can speak. Though there are plenty of questions they each could ask. They both shake their heads, no.

She looks back to the cards. “Ooo. You two have serious chemistry.” She winks, to lighten the mood.

Jamie giggles.

“That’s true.” Nathan winks at the blushing cutie.

“You two do feel like soulmates,” she pauses. “I don’t see that as often as I’d like.” She smiles.

“Well, this was intense.” Jamie pulls his hand back and pats his knee. “Thank you so much.” He’s ready for the session to be over.

She laughs. “I hope I haven’t scared you?”

“Not at all.” Nathan smiles.

Jamie rises from his seat. Itching to get out of the tent and back into the crisp air. “It’s so warm in here.”

She laughs again. “Take my card.” She hands one to each of them. “I have a studio in town where I hold private sessions. Maybe I’ll see you again?”

“Thank you so much.” Jamie can’t get out fast enough.

“Thank you.” Nathan follows.

They walk past a group of four waiting to get into the tent after them.

“You, okay?” Nathan checks in.

“Yes.” Jamie smiles. “She was something.”

“It was fun.” Nathan wants to lighten the shift in tone of the evening. “Don’t think too much about it.” He chuckles. “We have a party to get to?”

“Yes!” Jamie feels at ease again.

“Can we swing by my place? We can change there, and I need to take Mabel out real quick.”

“Of course!” Jamie lights up. “I’d love to see Mabel!” He starts toward the Sanctuary exit.

Nathan follows behind. Taking in a good long stare at the cuties butt swaying with his stride. Feral.

***

Jamie trails Nathan on the three story climb to the attic apartment. The faded old, carpeted stairs creak under their feet. The door swings open and Mabel is glaring at the door. Her furrowed brow lifts the moment she sees Jamie step inside.

“Sorry girl.” Nathan reaches down to pet her head.

She rushes past him and jumps her front paws up onto Jamie’s thigh. Tongue wagging as fast as her nubby tail.

“Hi Mabel!” He squats to her level. Letting her nuzzle under chin and against his cheeks. He ruffles her jowls and kisses the top of her head. Hugging around her neck like they’ve known each other for years and are just reconnecting.

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