28Holger was again the battle-ready commando I remembered.
He paused at the guesthouse’s open front door to untie and remove his boots.
I revised my assessment to Danish commando.
Like good Scandinavian guests, Dawna and I slipped off our sneakers and followed him indoors.
Shaded lamps cast warm golden light on the tile floors.
They weren’t bright enough to reveal the grit that I felt through my thin socks.
I was standing on rusty-brown terra cotta tiles deftly shaped by hand.
I’d once been in charge of an ambassador’s residence with the same expensive flooring.
Handmade terra cotta tile needs special care.
Daily sweeping and regular washing with vinegar water are vital to preserve the gorgeous finish.
This floor hadn’t been swept recently. No vinegar scented the air.
The room s
