”“Well, it’s a good thing you have her on your ‘nice’ list. How about slippers? Everybody’s been running around barefoot in the morning an... complaining about how cold it is.”“Great idea, if they don’t cost a hundred bucks a piece.”“Mukluks,” was all she answered.I’m quality conscious on most things and a good pair of Native American mukluks could cost you a few hundred bucks. Essentially, they’re a moccasin boot. After a quick search using our phones, we ran into Penney’s and got a knitted sock. Alex stood and I pulled my shorts up. He made no eye contact as heturned to continue to walk.I caught up with him quickly, trying to read his mood. "Are you ok?" How the hell would I know? I swore I wouldn't do that ever again, and thereI was on my knees, powerless to stop. Shit!" I don't understand. It was great. What's the problem?" I asked."I'm engaged to be married." He dropped a bombshell. "Whenever we make love,all I can see or think about is you. You haunt my dreams and show up in. Once Tim had arrived Don lost all interest in her, no matter what lingerie she chose or how high her hemlines went. It was hard to accept that she’d lost him to another, and it made little difference that the other had been another man. She’d tried to avoid the subject for a while busying herself in housework but eventually it became unbearable. They divorced. She remained alone, unwilling to go out. Then she’d met Thomas online. He was good with words, funny at times and had listened. “Right away, Mistress.” He marched off to make preparations. Sadie folded her arms below her bosom, still observing the pair intently.'Play time again so soon? It's only been twenty years.'* * * * *The glow of a centerpiece candle flickered on Cassie and Kayden as they examined their menus. Lively chatter and occasional laughs filled the background of the dimly lit restaurant. The riffing of a saxophone and the gentle keystrokes of a skilled pianist were barely audible over the hum of random.