Sometimes when Isak is working, seemingly lost in thought as he sands down one of the new pilasters or cuts two wood pieces to the same length, there’s a sudden change to his movements, a sharp intake of breath, and then he turns around and looks for me.
The first time it happens, he is kneeling at the foot of the stairs. He’s been pulling on his unwashed hair all day. There’s wood dust smeared on his forehead where he must have rubbed the skin with the back of his hand, and there’s more of it clinging to the little gilt hairs on his arms. For reasons unknown, he’s only wearing one sock.
He’s so lovely.
The moment his gaze finds me, he swallows and the tightness around his mouth softens. He gives me a small smile. It stays on his face as he turns back to his work.
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The final chapter of 62 Degrees North is coming on Sunday, 10th March. We're excited to share it with you! Catch up before the final installment here.