Can you keep a secret? Ellie asked. Of course, Kristina replied, clearly dying to hear the latest gossip. We gave Brittany quite the pre-wedding prese...t, Ellie said. Kristina tried to comprehend the implication of Ellies words. Her eyes suddenly went big. Who did? All four of us, Ellie said. No way, Kristina said, shocked but smiling. Miranda asked, Want to join our growing posse to humiliate Mark? Of course, Kristina said, disliking Mark as much as everybody else did. Miranda added, stressing. They looked as if they were actually getting along. Maria and I were impressed. I learned about the village she called home with her father and two younger brothers. We talked until almost midnight. I was still on east coast time, so I was the one that petered out first.As she escorted me to the elevators she whispered, "If you like, I will spend the night in your room. That way I will be your hostage. I will be a very co-operative hostage." And then she smiled that smile all women can produce.. "We will call her. Her husband Steve must also come. He has experience and wisdom. Despite the government ban against him, I think he will agree that he must be here to advise and assist our response," the old man answered softly.The elders stood for a long time by the monument, lost in a silent communion of prayer. They sensed a revered spirit there; they reached for wisdom and confirmation. The sun was nearly touching the western horizon when the old man dug deeply into his jacket pocket to. We exchanged mobile numbers, talked day and night for a week. Nothing dirty, all pure innocent texts. I dreamed every night what it would be like to share a bed with him, have his arms wrapped around me while I slept. I never dreamed of what would happen the following thursday. Mike invited me to go over his house, he lived alone in a 3 story, 4 bedrooms, game room with a pool table. I jumped at the chance like a desperate little girl wanting more ice cream. That thursday came, I prepared.