I melt, despite the icy air. Paul is so good at this part, at spoken sentiments and physical touch, at outward displays of affection. Kisses when he comes through the door, hand squeezes across the car console. Whispered I-love-yous in the dark. An aftereffect of losing Katherine so suddenly, he told me once. He’s learned the hard way not to waste any time.

But after growing up in a household where people were either screaming, throwing things or passed out cold, Paul’s brand of affection is something I’m still getting used to. Whenever we fight, which isn’t all that often, it always feels like the end. Every time he leaves, a not-so-tiny part of me holds my breath until he comes back. As easy as it was to fall in love with Paul, I’m still getting the hang of how to be a married couple.

“Hey, Paul,” Micah hollers up the hill. He shifts from foot to foot on the middle of the dock, tipping his head to the boat in an obvious let’s go. He’s already in his wet suit, his clothes and jacket in a heap on the dock, the golden necklace I watched him tuck carefully into a pocket. Paul has one just like it under all those layers, and so does Jax—Oh, crap, Jax.

“Paul, I forgot to tell you. I—”

“Can it wait?” Paul drops the towels onto my lap and stands, wriggling the boat keys from his pocket, casting an impatient glance down the hill.

“Of course. Go.”

“I’ll be back as soon as I can.” He leans in for a lightning kiss, then takes off for the dock.

I clutch the towels to my chest, stuffing my hands into the folds, searching for a warm spot. The snow has started up again, tiny white flakes that swirl in the wind like confetti. Not the kind that sticks or does much damage, just a visible and annoying reminder of the cold.

Micah waits for Paul at the mouth of the ramp, and together they walk up to the boat. I can’t hear them from here, but I see the focused tilt of Paul’s head, his solemn nods, and I know he’s listening hard. Instructions, I’m guessing.

Paul takes his seat at the helm, and Micah unties the ropes. He gives the vessel a gentle shove, and the currents catch the draft, the wind and the water carrying the boat away from the dock. Once Paul’s made enough distance, he leans over the side, craning his neck for a better look. He catches sight of her, and his entire body stiffens.

Aw, hell.