Chapter 56: Chapter 56

James clasped me about the shoulders. “I wish you could accompany me. The trip will take a good three months, and I shall miss you greatly.”

“You will deal with that, as well. As will I.”

“You’re so damnably placid. Few would ever guess what a volcano of emotions rages in your breast.”

“If you’re suggesting guile on my part, I do not admit to it. I am simply Otter.”

“Not Joseph Strobaw Otter?”

“Right now I am River Otter, and I have found the fish I wish to catch.”

“And the fish is begging to be caught.” James laughed and took me in his arms.

He was so charged up by the news of his trip he dragged me inside and immediately assumed control of things. He claimed he could only remain a few hours, but he fair wore me out with his demands. He was probably trying to store up enough loving to last during his absence. I was tempted to remind him it didn’t work that way. Ah well, might as well enjoy it while I could.