“Thank you,” I replied with a smile. With introductions concluded, Roger led me through the house. It was surprisingly warm and welcoming. The golden wood floors and light walls were a sharp contrast to the cold mansion I had been raised in. I wondered how I’d feel when we returned home after being here. “Your home is lovely,” I said. “Our home. You have made me so happy, Blanche. We will spend our summers here. I mean…we can if you want to. And, this is our suite,” he announced. Roger opened the double doors. The blinds of a huge window were pulled open, showing the ocean just beyond. It looked as if I could reach out and touch the crashing waves. Before I could respond, Roger scooped me up. He lifted me over the threshold and carried me into the room. He twirled me around before set

