No more chances. She knows she can’t be what I expect. She’s gone. Understood? Have HR call me in 15 minutes. Goodbye, Sarah.” I returned the ph...ne to my pocket and turned back to Miabelis. She was silent, waiting.“Miabelis, I’m sorry but I need to handle the rest of this business,” I offered. “I should do it privately, but I am anxious to continue our conversation. You’re through at four o’clock, correct?” Meet me in the bar of my hotel at 4:30. By then I’ll have this handled and will be able. ” She giggled and that helped lighten the somber mood.Amanda turned back to Dave, “Well, that’s a pretty sterling endorsement.” Her voice had a touch of sarcasm to it, displaying continuing disbelief. Dave figured this wasn’t a surprise since Brian had burned her rather badly pretending to be available and even promising her a longer-term relationship once the non-existent divorce was completed – something that probably would never have actually happened.Joan surprised Amanda, “I agree with. I wanted to see you again. " I respond softly, not looking up. "Why did you want to see me again?" "I missed you and was wrong to leave. I didn't realize how much I need you." "Need me? Why do you need me? What is it that you need?" you ask, trying to feel me out, seeing how I respond. You know well what my response might be. I don't respond, not sure of what to say, not wanting to sound stupid. "What do you need?" you ask again. "You." I respond, breathy, obviously holding back tears. Pushing. I suspect it’s going to be all or nothing with Tashana.Reaching down for the golden mask that Tashana held in her limp hand, John gently pulled it from her unresisting fingers, and stared at the twisted mouth turned up into a mocking smile. “You poor girl, you’ve suffered through so much,” he said, his voice throbbing with sympathy.Tashana had fallen quiet now, staring ahead blankly in a dazed stupor. He glanced at Alyssa again, and then gently scooped up the catatonic Maliri girl in his arms,.