"Hardy as you might be, Birmingham-boy, you're my patient and I'll take care of you as I see fit. Besides... he won't be needing them and he was a practical man. He'd be pleased that they were doing someone some good."

Nina picked up her shawl from the edge of the bed and wrapped up in it as she sat down on the ottoman that went with the chair. She breathed in the chilly air, content to have it just then.

"And it's winter here, or just about."