They have probably perished."The general pursed her lips while she thought of what she had been told. "It is too bad if they have perished. They may h...ve been of use to me." She paused for a moment then spoke again, "Remain in the camp, if there is any sign that they survived, I want you to lead a search party."The elf almost ran from the tent. The will of the mask is sooo strong! Once she was safely outside of the tent, she smiled. The general was playing right into my hands. If there is any. "Mom quietly asked Derek if he had time to run her home. That's, when out of the corner of my eye, I saw Eileen give dad a discrete elbow to the ribs."Jackie, you're invited too," he said after only one small jab."Me?" she asked disbelievingly."Of course," he replied with a smile, "you're the graduate's mother aren't you? Everyone drive safely," dad said before leaning in close to my ear. "Honey, we'll all meet you and Bobby at the restaurant," he told me emphasizing the word, all."Thanks,. I’m Laurie.”“John. Tenth floor, apartment one, tomorrow night. Come by anytime.”“Yeah, okay, great. I’ll see you there.”She just barely stopped herself from winking. The wink would have been too much: She’d have died of embarrassment and never been able to see him again. Once the door was shut and she heard his footsteps down the stairs she waited for her heart to stop fluttering. She was humming to herself as she tromped down the stairs to start hauling all her things up to. Don’t get too. Please join us. We can't think on an empty stomach."With her alluring smile, she said, "Yes, I would like that. How may I help?" Good. Michelle, please get Ms. Watson an apron. She is going to eat with us—and help."He smiled at her, "Michelle will show you where things are." He went outside to light the grill.She showed the girls how to do the condiments, giving each a suitable task. Why am I here slicing tomatoes and watching him cook? The three girls had an animated conversation about school.