Eventually, I started hanging out at the on-base beer hall, a sortof dive for the social misfits who had nothing better to do. I woulddrink myself int... a near-stupor, then stagger back to the barracks,where I would collapse into my bunk and sleep until reveille formationthe next morning. I would stand in the formation, barely aware of whatwas going on, hoping someone would simply guide me to the latrineso I could stick my head under the faucet and wash the cobwebs out ofmy brain in time to make. " I could feel tears of excitement forming in my eyes as I held out my hand to receive it.As I accepted this most wonderful gift Pa said the magic words, "I think you're ready, Son."I held it at arm's length so I could look at it and take in the whole wonderful sight. Suddenly, all at once Pa's training kicked in and I opened the breech and checked. Sure enough there was a shell in the chamber. I jacked the gun all the way open and caught the shell as it came flying out. It was not a live. Susan stood up and dropped her wet panties on the deck then tossed them to me saying, You may as well have these too as they go with the slip and cami, then jumped in. Toni folded the lingerie with her slip and bra on top, as she finished her wine and off we went to the pool. Hank showed up with another round and into the pool he went.The buy-back was more like a give back. A lace stocking went missing but everybody got most of their clothing back. When I gave Toni's slip and bra back, I said,. "I'm sure," replied Nikki before continuing, "I have to go now but I'dlike to talk to you more about your business as I think that there aresome things I can do to help you. Would you be free at all nextweek?" Yes, I'm free but would you let me buy you dinner? It's the least Ican do in return for your support?" That sounds lovely," confirmed Nikki who continued, "but I insist onit being my treat. A new Asian restaurant has opened near here whichwe could try. Let's say Wednesday at 7:00 and.