There was wine to drink, and I sipped at it carefully. I wasn't used to alcohol, and I wasn't sure how it would affect my talent. It would be very bad...if my influence deserted me just when I needed it.Cindy still seemed a little ill-at-ease with me, and I sent more waves of relaxation in her direction. I could tell that she wanted to ask Shirley about me, but couldn't think of how to do so without my overhearing. After a while she seemed to be more comfortable, and she and Shirley began to chat. It's a great relief to us that you've found Julie and Hamish, and we can treat you as the adults you are. You forget that we were only 21 when we got married, and you two came along before we were 24, so we're not yet in our dotage! It's been fun having the house to ourselves again after all these years." We wanted to tell you that if you do ever want to have Hamish and Julie to stay, they will be most welcome, and they can share your beds, as long as you don't keep us awake all night. You can. ”“I’m sure the scholarship people can work around that.”“We might want to go ahead and get a post office box and a dedicated checking account. That way we can fool Lizzie. Heck, we can use this fictitious scholarship organization in the future whenever you decide to give away a college education.”“Good thinking. Meanwhile, Lizzie’s here with me. If you can get a hold of them, would you get them to call my cell phone? That way Lizzie can find out if she qualifies.”“Jan’s here having a cup of. ‘Carrots, yes. Milk, no. Santa called me. He wanted a beer this year.’ You open one eye to grin at me. I roll my eyes and snuggle, nuzzling your neck as you close your eyes again. ‘Tell Santa, just this once. Got it?’ You chuckle, your laugh rumbling in your chest. ‘You got it, baby.’ I kiss your neck softly, wrapping my arms around you. ‘Hey Daddy? Since Santa is already on his way…’ I gently bite your shoulder. I hear your breath catch and try not to grin. ‘Yes, Kitten?’ ‘Since he’s already.