Re: lakeside mansion; hugh c./theodore c.
"It really is," Theodore said. "Thank you," he added, sincerely. It was going to be hard to leave this man behind but he appreciated the sincerity and the acceptance Hugh was showing. He didn't get dramatic, he didn't fight against it or ask Theodore if this was what he really wanted. Theodore hadn't known it was, until he'd spend nearly a full day of honest thought on it. It was a remarkable thing, and yet again, a new start. But it felt like the right one. "Something of a challenge, as well, considering my daughter is going to be in my classes. But, Defense is a rather practical and straightforward subject; she's not writing essays at seventh year level, so I suppose I can manage impartiality."
There was a little smile, but his expression settled back into something a little more serious. "I'll miss you, Hugh. You've been a remarkable friend. And, considering I own a home here, now, don't go thinking you'll be rid of me for good. We'll be back in the summer, both of us."