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Chapter 82

And I love you, Garrett…always have, always will, came the imagined response.

“Damn, that was a good un.” Gus’ voice caused the phantoms to vanish and brought Sam back to reality.

Sam felt himself slip out of the warm confines of Gus’ body. He pulled the old man tight against his chest and kissed the back of his head.

They lay there for a time. Just as Gus’ breathing started to become deep and regular, Sam asked, “Do you love me?”

“Huh? What?” Gus asked back, startled.

Sam realized then the man had started to drift off. “Sorry. I asked if you loved me.”

“What kind a fool question is that? ‘Course I love you.”

“I mean like it seems Garrett and the captain do.”

“You mean am I inlove with you? Hell, no.” Gus chuckled, turning to face him while maintaining Sam’s embrace.

“Are you in love with me?” he asked Sam.

“No,” said Sam sheepishly, embarrassed he had started the conversation.