Lena watched as her cousin and her husband played in the snow with their two kids. They always looked so happy together and Lena felt her mouth turn into a smile just looking at them and listening to their laughter.

“Watching the model-perfect family?” a familiar male voice asked behind her.

She jumped in surprise. She hadn’t even noticed he was there. He seemed to have a sixth sense for ruining every happy moment. She sighed. She didn’t want to fight him right now. She felt tired after a long day. She had got up early in order to pack everything, then she had worked for a few hours before driving into the mountains on the slippery roads.

“Has the cat got your tongue?” he asked.

“What do you want, Devon?” Lena sighed and turned to him.

“You know what I want,” he said enigmatically.

“Honestly, I don’t. I’m not a mind reader. I just know that it would be easier for both of us if we avoided each other.”

“Easier for whom?”

“Look, Devon. I’m really tired and I don’t want to argue with you right now.”

He seemed surprised for a moment. She turned her attention back to the small family. They were building a snowman right beside the road. Moments later, she heard someone approach and suddenly a cup was held in front of her.

“Drink this.”

She glanced up and met Devon’s grey coloured eyes.

“What is it?”

“Cappuccino. Coffee to wake you up and cacao to sweeten your temper, puss.” He gave her his usual grin as she accepted. She just gaped at him.

“Thanks,” she said as she started sipping the warm liquid. “Have you decided to play nice for a change?”

“No. I prefer a kitten with claws, that’s all.”

“A few hours of sleep are all I need.”

“I don’t mind sharing.” He winked at her.

“Being afraid of the dark is quite normal, I hear.” She paused before adding, “…when you’re five.”

“I wasn’t thinking of sleeping.”

“Nightmares makes sleeping difficult, but I’m sure that there are plenty of motherly women around here that will take care of you is you ask nicely,” she said ironically.

“Sounds as if the coffee is working,” he said and laughed. He moved closer to her. “Maybe I prefer the sleepy kitten after all.”

“We don’t always get our wishes fulfilled.”

“You know where to find me if you want to do something about that,” he said before he walked away.