" CIndy," she said. "You've met Cindy. We're neck and neck in this thing, baby. Why are you worried?" I don't know if I can keep up," I said. "And I l...ve you. Adore you." And I mirror your feelings, Dan love," she said. "Remember what I said? You're the first and the only? Forever? Are you not going to want me any more?"I looked at her face. Her eyes were moist. Worried. "Oh, god, please, noooo, little one. Never. But you're running so far ahead of me..."She pulled up and kissed me. "I'm not. Adam - I’ll be fine honestlyDad - uh Kate will be looking after youMom - She's agreed and that's that.Adam - Kate isn't she like a little young? Dad - She’s 18, moron you have been gone for years, she's a good kid and eager to see you again. Adam - I don't mind Kate, she used to watch wrestling with me when you guys had the Hendersons over. It’ll be fine I guess. How long you away for? Mom - er… well the plan is for a month Dad - Business is good, I'm semi-retired now and your brother is taking. My eyes drifted down to the alleyway beneath me where three guys had cornered a young lady. Dressed in a large brown hat with a cream undercoat on, she seemed to be in trouble. My fists clenched as I grabbed my jacket and made my way down the stairs double time.Kicking the front door to the apartment complex open, I ran out to the scene and shouted to the young lady.“Are you alright there Miss? These guys bothering you?”The young lady looked at me, and had the saddest eyes ever. She simply. Feel the burn, when it hurts, all is right in the world. When the pain comes, try harder, do better, wait for the rush, wait for the ecstasy. That had driven her through her training, and made her the person she was today. Linda let herself in. The cleaning woman came in hours after the gym closed, but wasn’t surprised to see Audrey still working out. At fifty, Linda was old, fat, and happy with life. She had shed her hang-ups with husband number two, and was at peace with who she was. She had.