Was it one of desperation? Would she bolt for the street when she saw me, saw us? She seemed to be heading towards the street side restaurant exit whe... her eyes caught mine.It felt like a million years passed in that second. I know I went white, and Sven had stopped talking. Then a smile that bloomed on her face like a morning glory in full sun, accompanied by her eyes brightening up, told me that whatever had passed the night before, she was fine. She hastened over and we all stood, but it was. Four TV commercials.A medal of fuckin freedom—from the King of Zambunda. And a partridge in a fuckin pear tree. “Wait—what “??? Mom was refilling our tea. “Medal ?? King ??Dustin was talking loud enough now that a few others in the diner turned their heads. “What's he talking about honey”?“Ya Matt— medal”? Asked Caleb, now suddenly interested. “Ahhh jeez Matthew--”I'm sorry—it just slipped—I swear”.I took a sip of my tea, mom is still standing there. The diner has gotten quite now, and just. He smiled and held her as they watched the night sky. It wasn't about sex tonight. He just wanted to show her how much she meant to him. She made him a better person. “I love you,” he whispered in her ear. “And I love you,” Brianna replied, and then snuggled up closer to him.(_)(_)(_) The next day was quiet. Their parents had insisted on a family game night, so they agreed. And after several board games, Alan was happy to sit on the couch with Brianna and watch movies. She laid with her head. Varick smiled, this was music to his ears, the simple fact that Alan had survived a full out attack by the doctor gave him a hope that he hadn't had in quite a long time. "I know what you are thinking Varick, no I am not about to try a full out attack against the doctor or the old assistant." Alan saw the surprised look on Varick's face. "You didn't know? He was in the chamber with the doctor when it happened though it nearly killed him. That was the main reason for so long the doctor thought.