Elizabeth is an amalgam of three people. There is, I’m afraid, no real life analogue to Denise. Stan’s devotion to Caron is heavily modelled on my...own love, of course. Like everything else, sweetheart, I offer this to you. Steveh11, 12th May, 2006 * * * * * Chapter 1 Stan woke up, rolled onto his back, and stared at the ceiling. It was a defensive reflex, looking at the empty pillow next to him would bring tears to his eyes. It was his 42nd birthday, and he was alone… again… still. The ceiling. "One of my more powerful healing spells," the stranger told me."Thanks," I grunted as I got back to my feet. I felt strangelyexhausted, though perfectly healthy. I touched my shoulder, amazed athow normal it felt. "But who are you?"The stranger stared at me for a moment, then broke into a grin. "It'sme... Deacon"I nearly choked at that. "Deacon?" I stared at him in disbelief. Hedidn't look ANYTHING like Deacon. Then again, I didn't look anythinglike myself either. "How..." There wasn't anything. The poor guys didn’t stand a chance. Before they knew it, Sue had effortlessly removed her target from the group, separating him from the protection of his peers while her friends engaged them with banter and not so coy looks. Just in case their attention wandered, Devon, in an exaggerated movement, put her arm around Janice and they began to kiss, apparently passionately. The girls kept this up for a few minutes before Millie said out of nowhere, ‘Hey! There’s Grant!’ and set off back up the. We’re still damp to be honest”“I noticed you looked bedraggled, no offence. That’s a real shame. So, you’re getting the ferry this afternoon? It’s a bit late for the morning one”“Yes”“Well, can I buy you all a coffee? There’s a place coming up which is very nice. Somewhere to relax before going off?”Angela looked round at the other two, soundless facial expressions between the three in that way that women have. Donal had used that non-verbal communication in his ‘Black is Back’, the fourth in.