P42

 This story uses a lot of descriptive language and common phrases that might be unfamiliar to some readers. Here are explanations for some of the more difficult words and phrases:

Phrases and Idioms

• Rusty squeeze-box: This is a metaphor for the creaking sound of the dock. A squeeze-box is another name for an accordion. The image of a "rusty" one suggests a grating, squeaking sound, not a melodious one.

• Checking the crabs: This refers to checking crab traps or nets to see what has been caught. Noah would be making sure the crabs are of a legal size to keep.

• Weather-beaten: This describes something that has been exposed to the elements (wind, rain, sun) for a long time, causing it to become worn and rough.

• Evening harmony: A poetic way to describe the combined sounds of nature at night. The frogs and crickets are singing in unison, creating a peaceful, natural symphony.

• Feeling a sense of closure: This means feeling a sense of finality or resolution about a past event or relationship. For Allie, seeing Noah and the dock helps her move on.

• A compulsion had driven her here: A compulsion is a strong, irresistible urge to do something. Allie felt an inner need to visit Noah.

• A breeze broke the stillness: This phrase suggests that the air was completely still and quiet before a sudden, light wind started to blow.

• Alternately looking down at the carving and then toward the river: Allie is switching her gaze back and forth between the two things, showing her inner conflict between the past (the carving) and her present reality (the river).

• Mosquitoes are getting vicious: The mosquitoes are becoming very aggressive and numerous, biting a lot.

• With a wet nose in the wrong place: Clem, the dog, is greeting them by sniffing a private or inappropriate part of Allie's body.

• With her tail between her legs: This is an idiom meaning to look defeated, ashamed, or scared. The dog's body language shows that she knows she did something wrong after Noah reprimanded her.

• The years had suddenly been undone: Allie feels like she's reverted to her younger self, as if the years that have passed since she and Noah were together have disappeared.

• Large and smelling of new wood:** "Lar" is a typo for "large," and "smelling of new wood" indicates the house has been recently renovated.

• A tasteful restoration, not overdone: The house has been renovated in a refined and elegant way, without excessive or gaudy decorations that are common in overly ambitious renovation projects.

• He continued to watch her as she left the room: Noah is still looking at Allie as she walks away, showing his lingering interest in her.

• That little twitch again: This refers to a feeling of inner turmoil or nervous excitement that Allie feels whenever she is around Noah.

• Took a hold of yourself: An idiom meaning to regain one's composure and control of one's emotions.

• Leaned against the counter, one leg over the other: This is a relaxed and casual posture, suggesting Allie is feeling comfortable in the space.

• He laughed under his breath: A quiet, soft laugh that is almost inaudible. It suggests a sense of amusement and humility.

Vocabulary

• Rocker: A type of chair with curved legs that allow it to move back and forth.

• Unpacked: Took things out of bags or suitcases after a trip.

• Porch: A covered shelter projecting in front of the entrance to a building.

• Cabinets: Cupboards with shelves or drawers, typically used in a kitchen.

• Rebuilt: Constructed again after being damaged or destroyed.

• Profile: A view of a person or object from the side.