But now that she was actually standing in front of him, she was unsure how to start. With all the culture and sophistication streaming from his every ...ore, she felt inexorably small, vulnerable, and a little bit foolish. Red stepped up behind her, hands on her shoulders, lingering just a fraction of an instant longer than necessary, peeling the lightweight jacket from her arms. His face near her ear, he drawled softly, “Come now, my dear, it can’t be all that awful. Couldn’t you sleep all alone. She had been on a ladder, helping paint at a school project when a tree limb had fallen on her and knocked her off the ladder, sending her tumbling to earth.She had been lucky, she had been told, but didn't feel it: a concussion, a cracked rib, and some evidence that there may be an infection somewhere. That was why she would be here another day, maybe longer, the doctor told her, so they could watch her and make sure nothing dangerous was going on inside.With the blanket pulled up to her neck. I went straight to the coffeepot. Eddie handed me my favorite huge mug, and I filled it to the brim. The first sip was hot and tasted oh, so good. I closed my eyes and savored it.“Hey, Tess?” I opened my eyes and looked at Fish. He was frowning at me.“Did you and David ... er...” Fish blushed, his ears turning pink. He looked adorable with his square jaw, black hair, blue eyes ... and bright pink ears.“No, we hardly spent any time together at all. Why?”“Well, uh. Not to be nosy, but who gave. "Thanks, Susan." It's not just me who lives here, Denise, Elaine too." Yes, but I know who I had to ask, really. It was good of you. I know you're taking me on trust, a little. But I just really, really didn't want to be alone in the house tonight."Denise sat still for a moment, trying to stay composed. "It's not that I'm afraid he'll come there for me, I just want to be with someone who'll care for me!" Her face crumpled again, and tears began forming in her eyes. "Lately I can't seem to keep.