Some looked abandoned, but aslights winked on here and there, others proved to beoccupied. I watched the light fade from our 2nd class train car. Igla...ced at my companion, who was curled up beside me onthe seat, dozing off, a travel guide precariously poisedto slip from her fingers at any second. Eyelids closed,covering those beautiful eyes. Clear face calm, a littlesmile curling her lips, like she was reviewing the pastdays’ adventures. I gently brushed a lock of hair thathad fallen over. I was again struck by his size relative to the two of us, but especially Hani, who was a good three inches shorter than I was and at least a foot shorter than him. Arriving at the pool topless, Deke was impressively built. An obvious gymrat, he carried himself with that air of physical confidence that all athletes and workout warriors seemed to share. After asking Hani to apply some sunscreen to him, he sat up on the side of the lounge chair and talked to us. He made a point to compliment me. I'll take a box of cartridges, but it ain't likely that I will need that many." Yes, dear. Now you just be careful and don't worry about me. I'll just do the necessary chores and sit in the shade the rest of the day. There's always mending and such to be done. Don't forget anything on the list, especially the Mason jars, so we will be ready for canning season," Alice said with a loving smile.Finally, Jim threw his saddle into the back of the buckboard and hitched up the horse. He was ready, at. He opened his eyes and threw an all-knowing smile at me and asked, ‘is this your first time?’ I blushed and nodded. Before he could probe any further, I opened the car door and stepped out. He too stepped out and said ‘Ciao soon at my home’ and smiled which sent me sweet shivers all through my body. I waved him a bye and locked my door from inside. I couldn’t move further. I rested my back on the door and closed my eyes. I knew it was going to be a long night. Just then rain had started and I.