"You know, civilization, same ol' same ol'," Russ grinned and drew Carrick into his arms as they kissed hello. "I missed you." Their bodies pressed together felt like fire and ice. He was so glad they were both back to normal.
Carrick's dogs loved Russ. He was at the estate so often that the dogs assumed he belonged there. The trio of dogs laying by the fire, eyed the two of them and wagged in greeting, but didn't bother to get up.
"That was thoughtful of him. I haven't met him, but I have heard of him," Russ said, letting Carrick go. He wandered over to pet the dogs one by one. He sat down on the hearth and took off his shoes, tossing them into a corner. Wiggling his toes he put his feet in Luna and Elsa's soft fur and ruffled it with his toes, the big guard dogs rolled on their bags obligingly.