Invitation

After their hike, Ed’s wife Beth called from the upstairs bedroom, “Honey, can you come here, please? I’m naked.”

Their marriage had settled into the routine of middle age lately, so Ed was thrilled with the invitation. Despite the ache in his knees after five miles on hilly trails, Ed took the stairs two at a time, bounding toward the love of his life.

As he entered their bedroom, Ed saw Beth seated on the edge of their bed, naked as promised.

“Can you check me for ticks before my shower?” she asked. “Gotta be careful these days. Thanks, honey.”