Physical Readiness Ch 6
Harry loitered outside the Ladies' until Ruth emerged. "The problem with all that exercise is that now I'm ravenous", he stated as he pushed away from the wall and matched her strides. "Will you be returning to the grid or heading home?" he asked. "Because I was thinking that we should probably review our programs away from the grid. I think the nation would be safe tonight if I don't go back; what about you?"
"Well…" Ruth pondered, "I was working on something that, under normal circumstances I'd have liked to finish, but I'm thinking that a good meal and a hot bath would probably be a good idea for tonight."
Their steps hesitated as they approached the corridor committing them to a return to the Grid.
Ruth suggested "Have you ever noticed that little place about halfway between here and my home…I think it's called Nature's Bounty? We could try that; I believe that they have the types of things on our menu plans, yet it always smells good…?"
"I'd really prefer a prime rib and potato, but under duress I'd be willing to at least try this place" Harry muttered. "I suppose we shall walk, too?"
"Well it is a lovely evening" Ruth pointed out as they stepped outdoors and joined the steady flow of pedestrian traffic. They walked along for several blocks, enjoying a relaxed conversation extolling the beauties of the Lakes District and childhood experiences there. After repeatedly being forced to slow, separate, and occasionally to walk very closely together to avoid collisions with oncoming foot traffic, Harry grunted in feigned exasperation before catching Ruth's hand in his. He pulled her snugly to his side, tucked her arm under his and allowed her hand to slide partway down his forearm, where he held it covered with his other hand and gave it a comforting pat as they continued walking. Ruth looked at the sidewalk, darted a quick look at Harry's gently smiling profile and smiled, too.
We could stop here or I could write more. What do you think? Please review.