“The backcountry signs say stuff like BEYOND THIS POINT IS A HIGH RISK AREA, WHICH HAS MANY HAZARDS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, AVALANCHES, CLIFFS, AND HIDDEN OBSTACLES, YOU MAY BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COST OF YOUR RESCUE and I think, um, no thanks. I choose life.”

“Sir Tucker,” I say suddenly, interrupting Angela.“Yeah?”“I believe the correct response is, ‘yes, Your Majesty,”

“Hey, you feel like driving today?" he asks. "I don't want to walk to the bus stop. It's too cold.""You feel like dying today?""Sure. I like risking my life. Keeps things in perspective.”

“I think the birds in the area are dying laughing watching me try not to crash.”

“Silver Avalanche coming up the driveway," calls Jeffrey from upstairs."What are you, security?" I call back.”

“How did you do that?” I shrug. “I click my heels three times and say, ‘There’s no place like home.’” “Uh-huh. So … you think this is your home? My barn? His tone is playful, but the look he’s giving me is dead serious. A question. “Haven’t you guessed by now?” I say, my heart hammering. “My home is you.”

“Coward, says the nagging voice inside my head. You should talk to him. Find out what he has to say.What if he says we belong together?Well, then you'll have to deal with that. But at least you won't be running away.I think it's more of a brisk walk.Whatever.I'm having an argument with myself. And I'm losing. So not a good sign.”