In one, her ribs showed. She just shrugged when he mentioned it and said, "Waitressing doesn't pay very much ... I had lost too much weight on top to ...e able to work topless ... and artists' materials are expensive, Dad."Then Casey remembered something else. He said softly, "Kerry, I just realized something. You never failed to remember my birthday, Fathers Day, and Christmas." The tears began again and his voice cracked as he said, "You and Jim had nothing yet you always sent me something. It. I was attracted to you. I didn't deal with that very well."Without lifting her eyes to his, Gail asked quietly, "You 'were' attracted?" Don't go there, Gail. I'm enjoying myself, but I've probably ruined your chances of finding a man tonight, although, I've watched you sending 'Back Off' looks at every man in here. I'm too old for someone as young as you are." You're forty-three, that's not old."He raised his eyebrows at her for remembering information on his identification. "You're right, but. ..it is my size. But only if you insist," she said."I do. Now take it," I replied, placing it on top of what she was paying for."Thank you so much. By the way, my name's Kirsten," she said, extending her hand to shake mine."Glad to meet you. My name is Alan," I said, shaking her hand. Her hand was very small and light, very dainty. "Listen Kirsten, since I don't have to stand in this slow moving line anymore, would you like to join me for lunch down in the food court? I know it's not the best. “You know very well why,” Lucas said matter-of-factly. “I’d rather be your friend forever, then your lover for a day.”“It wouldn’t be that way between us,” Xavier said softly.“You always say that,” Lucas laughed. “But you forget that I know you very well. You burn too hot, too fast. The only reason why you still want me is because except for these little trysts, I always say ‘no’. Plus, I would be a fool to give my heart to you. You are ruthless. You step on broken hearts like it is the most.