"The circle was drawn in chalk on the floor, runes made in blood enclosing it on both the inside and outside. Candles lit with purple flames dotted it...in strategic spots, and a crystal decanter of wine sat nearby for quick use. To anyone who knew anything, the ritual appeared perfectly fine, exceptional even."I'm sorry mother." The young man bowed his head, his hands tight against his sides."If I could I would've found a more worthy candidate for the ritual," she turned her head to look at him. "Priscilla was not in any position to resist her Mother and she knew it,but she had to try to persuade her against this marriage at least onemore time."Have you thought about me? He's strong and will tear me apart when hefinds out I'm a man just like him!" No dear. Not a man. A male. You are a woman. A male woman granted, buta woman just the same." Her Mother went on as if it was a mere formalitythat her son was getting married to another man. "Since you'll wear mywedding dress to get married. “Mother, you are swearing, I never knew you could.” “Enough already, now what do you want to keep this from going throughout the whole congregation?” “Nothing mother, I do have some good news too.” “Oh Lordy, here it comes, you’re pregnant.” “No, I have fallen in love with the Reverend Caldwell, and before you get your bloomers in a kink, hear me out.” “Blessed be, finally maybe now you’ll settle down and I can have a few grand-babies running around.” “Whoa momma, not so fast. You see you. “ Well, there is only one way to find out. Go over and see.” Patty blushed, turned around walked off the porch. I saw her go over and ring the doorbell. She disappeared inside. I stayed and finished my cigarette. Ten minutes later they both appeared in the kitchen, blew a kiss my way and waved good-bye. I went to bed with my mind full of erotic visions of what might be happening next door and ended up giving myself a happy ending. The following morning was Monday and I prepared to go to work..