Only then did I see theywere carrying what looked like big flashlights but were probably stunrods.Military Guy stood looking at us for a moment and th...n surprised us bysmiling. "Gentlemen. Points for bravado. But you understand that we can'tallow any trespassing. Now, I want you to know that I will not involvethe police if you'll answer some questions for me. Are we clear?"We knew enough to say, 'yes, sir' and, as freaked as I was by the stunrods, I could tell Tommy and Craig were as relieved. “I’ve about had enough…”The wall behind me implodes on itself. The man’s eyes go wide. He has no time to react before he’s knocked out as Rayner with her black and blue armor underneath her tiny black jacket closes the distance between by the time you can flick a finger. She looks at me and just shakes her head. Even though her mouth is blocked by the mask that covers the lower half of her face, I know she’s smiling. “Don’t even,” I sigh. “I didn’t say anything,” she laughs as she goes down to. ..” I smile warmly, looking into her teary eyes as she gazes up at me “We are friends Bell... You don’t have to act, just be you...” Leaning close, I kiss her on the forehead and speak again “Ok?”Bell wordlessly replies, tightening her arms around my waist, and burying her head into my chest as she allows the repressed tears to flow. “Bell... How long have you been holding all of this... Do you ever free this sadness, this pain?” Whispering sweet encouragement into her ear, I stroke a hand. " said Doris, "You're getting the hang of thingsreally quickly."I was proud of my efforts, although I couldn't help wondering just whatit would actually feel like to be wearing one of these firm, highlinegirdles for a whole day, irrespective of what the advert said about"Comfort With Control". It seemed a good moment to mention that both mymother and sister, Wendy, were in the market for a new firm girdle, andmaybe they'd be interested in this new Berlei one."Fine," said Doris, "Take a couple.