Whatever he said apparently pleased his companion, for she stepped close and kissed him.“Come on, Roger, let’s dance some more.”She led him over...to a circle of revelers engaged in their own version of a Renaissance summer solstice dance. A few of the women danced bare-breasted, one or two completely bare, as was one of the men. Many had imbibed or smoked. The aroma was familiar.Sophie led Roger again through her repertoire. No one seemed to care, really, what dance one chose. Roger managed to. The phone came on, which always startled her. It never rang first.“This is the home of Amanda Waters and Bret Donner,” it now said. “Leave your number and a clear message. If you’re not selling something, we might get back to you.” She couldn’t figure why Bret mentioned her, let alone put her name first. She wasn’t going to give anyone this number.A man’s voice recited a number with an area code she didn’t recognize. Then, “After seven o’clock, eight Central. And who is Amanda Waters?”She. These guys are talking like they don’t think anyone can hear them. I don’t think I’m supposed to be awake enough to realize what’s happening. Even if I can’t move, I’ve already fought this thing better than I should. ‘Seat 15, not Seat 17!’ Leader shouts. ‘Jesus, you want to grab some housewife whose husband is gonna call the police or something? Yeah, fuck you too, Lenny.’ I try to remember what I put down on those demographic forms. Probably nothing that would make them think someone was. Sure you can see Melanie when she comes home at the weekends. That was another lie I told you," she started crying now.I put my arm around her and pulled her to my chest. "Betty why do you dress in black?" I like black and surprising as you may think it deters attention. Oh I want attention, but I am also frightened as well. There are so many diseases out there nowadays that I'm afraid I will pick up the wrong man and get infected. I know Melanie isn't infected so you must me clean, that is why.