Redhawk Caldera Most people think I burn hot, it's actually quite the opposite.

Elwood shook his head apologetically. Unfortunately, he couldn't see a way to change Ashton's speech patterns, although he suspected that the male would make efforts if Elwood asked him. But the odds that he would be spending much time with Towhee anyway were slim. He wasn't even sure of the next time he would see the hippie.

"It's good that you told him you don't like being called 'doll,'" he said, glad that Towhee had stuck up for herself. "It just might take him some time to listen. But he doesn't mean you any disrespect. He's...an interesting character. He's got a lot of crazy stories to share." Returning Towhee's playful grin, Elwood added, "But I don't expect you to become best friends with him or anything."

He paused, then said, "Gannet, though...I think you might like him if you give him a chance."