I went to Nicole’s door and peeked around the edge. ‘Strip club rules,’ she purred. She was standing in front of a full-length mirror on the opp...site wall, watching me over the shoulder of her reflection. ‘You’re not allowed in the dressing room.’ Her forearm draped across her chest. He back was bare. Her panties were high-waisted and complimented her every curve. They were a deep red. ‘This is the dressing room? I’m pretty sure this is the V.I.P. area.’ ‘Is that right?’ ‘It is. Besides, the. As Mary cried, Mark looked at the screen and saw that she had written a poem, the first line starting 'I really didn't know'. The rest told of her remorse at how she had hurt someone. The subject was unnamed, but there was no question it was Lindsey."Come on, Mary, let's have a soak," Mark said, pulling her to her feet before she could object. He reached over to quickly save the poem and close the word processor.Mary tried not to look at Mark's crotch when he stripped off his shorts, but that. I know instantly that the cheap oak has never felt the touch of holy water, that the cracked and varnished plastic form of Jesus in His suffering has never had those secret, powerful words muttered over it, that it is a mere decoration and not a talisman with any power against me. I laugh and my laughter tumbles and turns, transforming into my hands, sending the crucifix flying off the wall to skitter like a mere spider across the bare hardwood floor into the corner furthest away from me. Now I. Her boredom turned to resentment leading to frequent fighting and nagging. Eventually, we found ourselves living together, but with no real passion towards each other.***In June, my 20th year high school reunion was scheduled. The organizing committee had arranged B&Bs for people who didn't like hotels. On the appointed day, we checked into our room, which was cozy with a big comfortable bed. Outside in the back, there was large deck with a large hot tub. After such a long drive, it would be.