He rolled over to face me, still shivering convulsively. ‘Shhhh, it’s okay Steven. It was just a dream.’ I slowly stroked my hand along his chee..., trying to reassure him. ‘A dream? My God. The pain! They were hurting me. And you – you were… you were gone. And my sister… she was there. She was there! Where did she go?’ His voice, haggard with sleep and fear, cracked again. He started sobbing, a rough tearless cry welling up from his chest. He whispered out a name, once, under his breath:. "Lisa gasped. "That sounds wonderful!"Again, I felt another pang for my masculine side. My engagement withLisa had endured several postponements, mostly due to scheduleconflicts--since we now worked together, it had been difficult to figureout a way to take time off together without leaving the hostess staffshort two girls. There was also the fact that I planned to get marriedin male mode, and would use my vacation time to temporarily remove mynails and forgo shaving."And," Carrie said, "I. Fine. You just want to check him out and if there is something you like, you’ll have it done. I just want what is best for you. That’s all.” It sounded like Amanda was giving up and knew she wasn’t going to win the argument. Steph wanted know what brought all this about but she guessed Natalie opened her mouth and said something that started this whole talk. She entered into the room where both of them can see her. “Hope I’m not interrupting anything.” Amanda smiled at her, “No. I think we are. " Can we give you supper?" That would be wonderful if it's not too much bother." None at all."He gave her the address and went off to warn Becca to expect an extra mouth. She was totally unworried."I've done plenty," she said cheerfully.Steven told her what it was about. "I may need to come clean with her about you. Are you OK with that?" If you are," she replied but a tremor of fear went through her. Steven noticed it."I promise I won't place you at risk."She smiled gratefully at him.Mrs.