For both us and the rest of humanity," he reminded them. "This would help us identify the central component of the Great Death, and would be a major a...vance towards finding a potential cure. We have a working understanding of how these plagues work, but we need to determine whether I'm not missing something." Tom paused, running his fingers nervously through his unruly hair, afraid of losing this opportunity."Again, you've all made your points, but we need to work out the logistics, and I'm not. I will have to go on stage to receive my award. You will go with me. It will be nice to show off my ‘hunky’ husband.” She grinned.We dressed and met the other couples at six. Everyone was dressed nicely. Belinda drew stares even from our friends. Bert grinned. “First, a knock out suit at the pool and now a knock out dress for the evening. You’re going to keep Steve busy.”Elaine grinned, too. “Steve looks pretty knocked out, too. You two make a stunning couple. The only ones who can get close. "I don't know. I suppose we should eat some lunch first. And, Dan, do you want to play some rough games today or do you want to just do like yesterday?" I wouldn't mind either," Dan said. "If you'd like I'd certainly enjoy some more 'sex and torture' games." Yeah, I think I'd like that today. You may do your worst and then ravish me. Just make sure you don't forget the ravishing part."Dan grinned. "I won't forget. Maybe later we can trade off. But I guess you're right and we should see about. Before she can make contact with the door it opens a slither, and a young man's blue eye peers out."Thank God, please I'm..."Come in dear, Christ you're soaked. Come in, come in, don't worry about the furniture, it'll clean. Get comfy, I'll get you a towel. Tea?"Amy is grateful, if a little taken aback by the man's forthright nature."Thank you, thank you very much. I'm Amy." Sam" he shouts as he hurries away to the kitchen.'House' is an understatement. This is a stately home. Amy slowly pulls.