Sleepy Fox Hollow honey in the rock and the sugar don't stop

If he'd known Anselm a little better, he might not have read into it so much. As it was, he ascribed most of the man's distaste and distrust of him to his mixed heritage. It was a simple answer, and one that was all too often correct. So for better or for worse, Dusty Rose was not interested in accepting hospitality.

"I don't," he replied, taking a little step back. The distrust was mutual. He nosed the bone closer to the other man. "I can keep myself well enough entertained. I'd appreciate it though, Anselm, if you'd tell him I'm in the area when he gets back."

Another little step backward.

"You can have that," he said, indicating the bone. "It's not gonna last. S'pose a visit will have to be present enough."