A family is a unique and marvelous thing, she thought. You're always needing things from one another. Always hurting one another, and forgiving. She grinned to herself. That, at least, she and Dylan had plenty of practice at already.

"Pardon , Miss, but shouldn't you be changing trains?"

The heavy baritone voice came at her from way up there, its tremulous vibrato sending shivers down her spine. She knew when she looked up she'd see the curly shock of haywire hair, the dark eyes sparkling mischievously and the strong arms ready to pull her to warmth and comfort.

"Dylan!"

He drew her to her feet and kissed her.

"This is better than my homecoming after the War. I'm so grateful, so glad I found you. You are my ground, my homeland, my everything."

Her knees buckled at his words. "But, what, how--?" She was all questions.