“I thought after lunch we could go for a walk up the mountains” suggested Lauren.“Yeah, why not. I’ve only seen these mountains from my side, ...ot from round here.”They entered the kitchen to find her mother checking lunch for the one hundredth time that day.“Hi, you must be Jim!”“Yes, pleased to meet you. That smells great!”“Are you hungry?”“He’s always hungry!” said Lauren, watching her mother intently for any sign of displeasure.“Good, well it’ll be ready in about ten minutes. It’s only ham,. " Yes, Sir?" Firstly, I want you to remember that we are simply two people who are curious about each other. Secondly, that we appear to 'connect' and very importantly we can laugh together. And lastly, we are attracted to one another. It's as simple as that. We like each other. In this way, we are no different to any other potential couple in the world. If we keep things simple, then there's no reason why we shouldn't meet."Elaine knew his words sounded reassuring. They were reassuring.. And the repercussions ofthat fell on him alone.This wasn't a life he was borrowing anymore; it really was his life. Thepunishment meted out to him today would determine what path his lifewould take for the rest of his days.He was Burt now and he would still be Burt a year hence; ten years hence.He was going to be Burt Harper until the day he died: a withered oldbroken down man.The next moments would determine if he would spend those years free orimprisoned; whether he'd be discharged with no. Sandy didn't know what to make of her new BFF. She knew that severaldays ago, she was golfing with Danny. Danny was the funniest guy shehad ever met and showed her how to golf as well. Initially, Sandy hadno interest in golf, but liked her friend's brother. When Sandy askedDanny to help her golf, she took on a new relevance in Didi's life.Didi was now totally focused on helping Sandy, regardless of her ownhormonal issues.The next day was Monday and that meant Didi and Sandy would be immersedin.