“I think you need body heat, so I’m getting in there with you. Don’t be afraid. I just want to get youwarm.” Keir issued no protest, so Riley took off his sweatshirt and shoes and climbed onto the chair. He gently wrapped his arms around Keir and stifled his surprised laughter as his shy neighbor turned into a heat-seeking missile aimed straight at Riley’s bare chest. Damn, the man was cold!
He tucked the blanket around the two of them and raised the footstool on the recliner. Easing back, he planned to wait a little while for Keir to warm up. Then maybe some soup? He had some canned chicken noodle that might be acceptable. But for the moment, he settled into the comfort of the chair and the sweet contentment of holding the soft-hearted man who, for no good reason, had forgiven him yet again.
Once Keir’s shivering finally stopped, Keir fell asleep, softly snoring.
For Riley, the rhythmic sound and the coziness of a man cradled in his arms banished all thoughts of getting up.