" They love you," Tina said. "Just not in a romantic way."My cheeks flushed a little. "They do." I paused, picking my words, "but I only have romantic...feelings for one woman," I said, meeting Tina's eyes.It was her turn to blush, but she didn't look away. I extended my hand and waited. She placed hers in mine and gave me a squeeze. Our eyes met again, and I didn't hesitate. I pulled Tina into my arms and kissed her.She returned the kiss, forcefully and hot. We kissed for a few more endless. She was why I was alive.I turned my head toward her and watched her sleep. She always slept in on Saturday morning after her big date nights. I hadn’t had a nightmare on a Friday night in quite a while. I’d had one the night after my mess-up with Francine a week ago and woke up with Peyton holding my hand. But Em was here with me now and when I tried to pull my hand away, she gripped it tighter. Her eyes squinted open at me.“Never let go,” she mumbled.“I thought ... I was dead.”“Just a dream.. “So ... are you mechanically inclined?” he asked.“Yup. My dad has taught me all he knows, and together we’re learning about all the new gismos that the industry comes up with every year. I’m the computer specialist, while Dad does the nuts and bolts. Mom is the accountant.”“Let me guess, you don’t have a brother,” Jesse grinned.“Wrong,” she smirked. “My brother Dave is in med school with his best pal Pete. The two of them plan to set up a general practice when they finish. They’re planning a. There’ll be shoes before long, I’ve patched up your own boots, but they’re not quite finished.’ ‘Shoes? You are a marvel.’ She tipped her head modestly and rose to poke at the fire. ‘Where do you go?’ He asked as he watched her move, her britches clinging to her legs and her tunic hanging wetly around her arms. She looked tiny, like a rag doll brought to life in some fanciful ballet. Her dark hair glistened and her skin glowed. ‘Go? When I’m not here?’ ‘Yes. You said this wasn’t your home.’.