CHRISTMAS DAY ARRIVED clear and cold. Maggie had gradually lured Lady the collie into the house to stay with her on those nights when Nick was working late. Lady was on her new bed in front of the fireplace with a tasty bone as Nick and Maggie exchanged their gifts. Nick was overjoyed with his Hardy Boys books, and Maggie was overjoyed with her necklace. They made love in front of the fireplace after opening their gifts and spent a lazy day enjoying each other’s company in and out of bed. Maggie found Nick to be a generous and inventive lover and he found her to be a willing partner in whatever he suggested they try.
Maggie worried about the future and the possibility that their plan to stay together may not work. She knew Nick was imprinted in her body and soul. She loved him deeply and
