Re: lakeside mansion; hugh c./theodore c.
"I never really took to helicopter parenting, and let's be honest: I know I'm holding on to something that's not going to last much longer, with her. Fortunately, I've had the time to get used to her being away for most of the year, but she's done with school in June, and it's hard to say what she'll do, then." He spread his hands. "I think regardless of how that might go, I'll enjoy the post. And if I do, I'll likely stay on, at least for a full year after."
He listened as Hugh offered the same sentiments Theodore had, and he was touched, his heart warmed by the honesty. "I don't think there's anything to be ashamed of, as I feel the same," he said. "And I refuse to let anyone horrible move in, so you won't have to deal with that." He smiled, openly. "I do have the time. I made the time, as a matter of fact, and I have to admit that I'd be a little put out if you didn't offer to share." He would leave in the morning, to drive back to Salem, and from there, make his way across the Atlantic through less conventional means.