Deep within himself, a small nugget of guilt begun to form. He'd never be able to offer all of himself to Maple the way he could have to Winnie. There were too many years of friendship to build and even more insecurities to share. No one else knew him the way Winnie did, and yet his midwife best friend was already withdrawing from him again. Maple deserved more than someone still so emotionally invested in another lover.

However, Dory had never been the selfless sort. Whenever his feelings were immediately involved, Dory felt greedy and selfish. He craved the connection and intimacy. Maple deserved more, but Dory couldn't let go so easily.

He embraced her, his head coming to rest atop hers. If she was at all bothered by his trouser situation she didn't comment, which he supposed was a small blessing to be had. Dory might've been content to stand there with her all night had the kettle not chosen that instant to begin whistling. With a short laugh, Dory pressed a kiss to the top of her head and broke apart. "Would you like some tea?"

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