Eventually, though, we did make it to the gate to the property, and I climbed out to unlock the padlock and unwrap the chain. At least today the sun was shining, although the air had an intense bite to it, and I knew I wouldn’t want to remain standing in the snow for too long. I didn’t have to, of course, and within a minute or two, I was back inside the Cherokee and coaxing it up the incline to the house.
Since we probably wouldn’t be staying long, I didn’t bother with putting the Jeep in the garage, but instead backed it up as close to the rear door of the house as I could. Dutchie pressed her nose against the window and whined softly; I could tell she knew she was home, and wanted out.
You and me both, I thought, climbing out of the vehicle and going to the rear door so I could let he
