It cannot, and does not,” the big man shrugged while everything around them spoke, “Lessons require progression. None can progress while they stil... suffer. Only after.”“I guess that’s your whole deal, innit,” Belita said, starting to understand. “Pain now to avoid worse pain later.”The skull mask nodded.“What can ye do? Ye cannae erase my memories, can ye?” Belita asked, a bit worried.“I could, but that would be counterproductive. You would learn nothing,” the wind said. The mask again tilted. I felt like a small boy dressed up in my fathers best suit wearing shoes several times too large for me. I think it was my appearance at this computer industry trade show that created the lasting public image of me as the 'eccentric and reclusive genius that was very ill at ease with fame and fortune.' I wouldn't at all argue with this.They were probably exactly correct. Other than my daughter and co-workers, I had no one to share the little joys and triumphs of my life with. I had found out. “Tell me!” he told her quietly.“I was scared and lonely, and I didn’t know y’all slept nekkid. And I touched you without permission. And, and I felt your thing. And I liked it...” She stopped, looked up at him, and told him bluntly, “AND I don’t think I love you, at least not that way. I’m ashamed, and I’m so sorry.”“You shouldn’t be ashamed or sorry.” He hugged her tighter and kissed the top of her head. “Y’all didn’t know, and then you got permission. Listen, Sweetie, I liked it too, and you. He asked "Are you Maxine Stone?" If this is her room, I guess I am. I sure as hell ain't been playing musical beds," I said only about half away. Just awake enough to be a smart ass it seemed."Just making sure hon, I don't want to send the wrong evil bitch to hell." the person in white whispered. It was at that moment that I knew I was about to be very dead. "Besides the old men wanted you to know it was coming."All of a sudden the person in scrubs began to shiver. I knew the signs well. I.