”“Mind if I join you?” Kelly asked, approaching the table with a tray of food.“Sure, take a seat!” Victoria said cheerfully. “So, what are...you two talking about?”“Just what we do on Friday nights.” “Ugh, I love Friday nights. I basically sit at the computer all night and watch my favorite shows online.”“Hey, uh… can I join?” asked the suddenly-appearing Tyler, as nervous as Kelly when she first asked. Victoria did not stir or become tense at the senior’s arrival, having learned that he no. " But!" No buts," he said, "I'm getting you home, and on time too."In her bed that night, Ellie ran the events of the evening over and over again. She found that she had memorized virtually every word that had passed between them, and several that had gone unspoken. Sleep wouldn't come. Normally Ellie fell asleep five minutes after hitting the pillow, but not this night.She analyzed each and every kiss he'd given her. She rhapsodized over the texture of his tongue, and how soft his lips had. I'll even give you a ride home." He still didn't change expressions."I changed my mind, no lawyer just get me out of here," he said."Good choice," I agreed.After the cops had gone and before the nurse put more dope in my IV James said, "Eastern European, those Russians have long memories." Not a priority at the moment. Wake Jennifer up and get her the fuck over here," I said as I drifted off to sleep again."Max you wanted to see me?" she said waking me from a dreamless and painless sleep."Get. I noticed she didn't close the bathroom door, but not wanting to look to desperate, I didn't try and peek in. When I heard the shower start, I stripped down and put on the other housecoat. I turned off all the lights, lit the candles in the bedroom and outside by the tub, turned on the hot tub, and cracked another beer. I sat on a chair on the deck, looking at the forest behind my house while I waited for Suzie to finish her shower. After a few minutes, I heard the water shut off and Suzie.