my best life 07.04.17.1205P

a frozen exile
Arriving in Ohio was a sharp contrast to my arrival in
California. It was the second week of December and while
much of southern California was basking in 70 degree
temperatures, my destination had icy roads, 20–25 mph
crosswinds and wind chills of 7–10 degrees.
Michael was gracious upon my arrival, but much went
unsaid. This was a new situation for both of us and we
communicated mostly in a very manly manner of tough
exteriors hiding uncertainty. He took me to the back of
his condo and showed me the storeroom.
It was about 125 sq. ft. with one-third of the room filled
with boxes. He handed me a spare key and said
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