QUOTE : Val found Ellen at midday, arranging a bouquet in what would likely be his bedroom. She’d chosen red roses and bright orange daylilies. “Interesting combination,” Val murmured, coming up behind her and inhaling her floral scent. “I like seeing you in this house, Ellen.” She went still, and Val knew a gnawing sense of stealing moments before time ran out. “Hold me.” She leaned back against him. “I shouldn’t like being here so much, but I do.” “Here in my arms”—Val tightened his embrace—“or here in my house?” “Both.” She turned and slipped her arms around his waist. “And you shouldn’t be sleeping with me, either.” “I’m protecting you.” Val dipped his head to kiss the side of her neck. Ellen angled her chin. “As if locks won’t do that job.” “They won’t, entirely.