He seemed hurt at the thought and said, “Why should I mind?”
“I don’t know. I just didn’t want to give the impression that I’m taking over your house.”
“I don’t see it that way, babe, but to put it in those terms, you’re free to take over anything I have that you want or need, and if I don’t have it, I’ll certainly try to get it for you.”
“While we’re on the subject, I should pay you something toward rent and utilities.” He gave me a hurt look again, so I said, “I’ve never sponged off anybody in my life, and I certainly don’t intend to start at this late date. If I’m going to be living there, it’s only right that I contribute. Richard doesn’t live there for free, does he?”
“No, he gives me a hundred bucks or so each month for utilities, and every so often we sit down and figure out wha
