”I nodded at him. “Me too.”“Do they give you a certificate – when you get to be a proper American?” asked Sam.“I don’t know, Sam. Mayb....”“I’d like that. I’d like a thing I can hang on my wall that says I belong,” he said.“Yeah.” That sounded like an excellent idea. I would like that too.We looked at each other and shared a moment of silence together. Then without any discussion we both turned at the same time and looked back out across the living room. Together we watched the swirling patterns. Come on, hellions, it’s about time for us to get moving as well.”As the group around the table dispersed, I held back to help Zara gather up the dishes. It wasn’t all that abnormal for me to help after lunch or dinner, but she knew I had my own work to do and gave me an odd look as everyone else left. “Okay, Vivi, what’s going on? You and Gianna usually bolt out of here after breakfast to get started so you can get back to playing sooner.”“I just wanted to ask if you were going into town. ." NO, NO," I blurted in a panic. "Please don't. I'm sorry. I won't giveyou any more backtalk." I figured you'd see it my way. But you also have to serve the girls ata little party I'm having tonight." Not... like this." Oh? And what would you like to wear? Your pretty maid's outfit? Wouldthat be better, lambkins?" No, but... I mean..." You mean that you don't want to be seen in any of your pansy wardrobe bya bunch of females who are going to laugh at you and make jokes aboutwhat a. It was then she heard the feeble scratching at the front door andshe ran over to it and opened it.Jake was on his knees near the door, his arms full of firewood but hecouldn't stand up to open the door. He was dressed only in his dark suitand covered in snow, his face a mask of pain, his hands blue."What the fuck?" Sharon grabbed him by the arm and helped him inside."Wait." He reached outside the door and started to drag the cut logsinside."Leave it!" Sharon kicked the logs that were blocking.