Andy unlocked the door to his house and invited Rusty and Sharon in. His house was not huge, but it was a cozy place and he hoped that the Captain and Rusty would feel comfortable staying with him. Rusty walked into the house and Sharon followed him. Her arms were wrapped around Malin's body as if the dog was what helped her holding herself together.

She looked around her. Flynn's house seemed to be clean and neat. She could handle that for a day or two. Only until I feel better, she thought. Andy's living room was big, much bigger than hers and it felt warm. He also had a big fireplace. The living room was a bit too decorated for Christmas. Men, she thought, they never know when to stop.

"Let me give you the grand tour," Andy said and Sharon nodded absent-mindedly. The last thing on her mind was to explore the lieutenant's house. She was still overwhelmed by the situation; in a split second, she became homeless and nearly lost her life and all she was able to feel was a deep and utter uncertainty. "So, this is the living room." he stated the obvious and walked down the hall, "This is the guest room, Rusty will be sleeping here." He offered her a comforting smile and she made an enormous effort to smile back. "The last room in the hall is the bedroom, you'll be staying there."

"Thank you, but I won't be taking your bed from you. I'll be sleeping on the couch." Sharon replied. "Don't argue." Her decisive tone made Andy grin.

"And this is the bathroom." He pointed at a door on the other side of the hall. Sharon nodded slowly.

"Andy, I want to thank you for your generous offer to host Rusty and me. I hope we didn't ruin your holiday plans." she said.

"Are you kidding, Captain? I'm sure having the two of you around here on Christmas is going to be the highlight of my holiday." Andy's voice was cheerful and Sharon made another attempt to smile.

"I wish the circumstances were happier," she said.

"I'm sure everything will be okay, Captain. Think about the bright side, you're alive and mostly well." Andy smiled. "Listen, I know it probably feels weird and awkward to have to stay here, but I want you to feel comfortable here; mi casa es tu casa." Sharon thanked him again. Malin whimpered and she caressed her fur gently. "Funny," Andy said with a grin.

"What?"

"You never struck me as a dog person. I always thought you were a cat lady." he said.