It began 2 years ago when I had just turned 18. I had a feeling of achievement after I turned 18 and felt I could do anything with my life(which was p...etty dumb).It was a hot and sunny Saturday afternoon. I was laying in my bed watching a TV show. My mom came up to me and said she’s going out for some work and wouldn’t be back until evening. She said she has put some clothes in the washing machine and I need to put them outside to dry once the wash cycle completes.I shook my head and she left. I talked a bit with Beth and with Joan and, of course,with you. I think I remember the lights coming up at closing and walkingout to the car. I don't remember the ride home or anything after that. Iguess I should have warned you that when I drink and I'm not shootingpool or playing darts or something I tend to drink too fast and get toodrunk. I'm sorry." So, you don't remember kissing me?" Um, no. Where did I kiss you?" Randi queried."On the lips," Denise was purposely being difficult."OK, not. Others were smaller and hopefully could be taught to be topmen, up in the masts dealing with the sails and lines up there. Some claimed to have never been on a ship before but were willing to learn. Some claimed to be the best seamen I’d ever meet.This was really the first time we’d brought on trainees. I wanted to say that they could fit in, but at the same time I wanted to tell the crew that the trainees were nowhere near as good as them.I told them that I’d give each one a Pinch to go to sea. The chill water swirled around us as we moved closer together."Got something in mind?" Helen asked, a suspicious expression on her face.I kissed her. Her body was chilled, but felt warm in my arms as I pulled her into an embrace, and I was pleased when she didn't pull away, but rather kissed back, pressing herself back at me. My hand came up to rub along the back of her neck.She stepped back after a moment, and turned to look to the left and the right. An amused smile came across her.