It was the kind of cold, crisp autumn morning that required fuzzy socks, oversized jumpers and steaming hot drinks. Nichelle Asher was sat on the comfy side of the sofa with a mug of tea (a teacup wasn't going to cut it this morning), listening to the rustle of leaves outside and generally feeling at peace with the world.
A draft of cold wind rather ruined the mood, the gingery collie bolting through the door and up onto her lap was little compensation.
"Sorry Sunshine."
She smiled, despite the goosebumps and the fact that Antares was licking the mug. "There's tea in the kitchen."
A few moments later Kate joined her on the sofa.
"It's getting colder."
"We'll have to find a way to keep warm."
"More knitwear." She said wisely. "What do you want for Christmas?"
Nichelle shrugged. "I have everything I want. This house, Antares, you. Every day is a gift."
"Aw." Kate leant forward and kissed her nose. Antares grudgingly got off the sofa and sat in the basket on the other side of the room.
"I love you."
"I love you too." They snuggled into each other's arms as the wind whipped the leaves from the trees and high into the air.
