‘Twerent no wonder Jake did what he did though. Folks just don’t take to things like that.”Dottie said, “What do you mean Samuel? Where is Cal...ie?”“Oh, I am sorry ma’am. I supposed you knowed. Ole Jake got back from his last delivery early and (he blushed and stammered some then continued), uh, well, he cotched rancher Morgan’s boy in her bed keeping her company like. ‘Course, he out with his hog leg and let ‘em have it like any sane man would then he just up and left after the sheriff cleared. The thunder of my pulse drowns out other sounds as her soft, warm hand rests on my shoulder. I cannot breathe as her silky hair brushes my cheek. She smells... clean. Clean and fresh, with just a hint of lavender and something else... "Very good, Justine!" I can barely hear her whispered compliment over the pounding of my pulse!I sigh with relief and longing as she drifts away, murmuring encouragement to other students as she passes.Why, oh why did I take THIS art class! Even as the thought. Who I see and don't see is no longer your concern. Goddess knows that I wish it were different but it's not!" She was crying openly now and slowly slid down my door."I can't," she sobbed.I knelt facing her. "And I can't hang on to you when there is no hope. It hurts too much. You asked that I let you go the other day, now it is my turn. Please let me go, Megan.Please."With an effort she got her breathing and emotions under control. She stood with some effort, even going as far as turning away. ”Ben and I split up as we agreed on a time to meet at his house, to swim. I got my bike and rode into town and over to the gym. This had been a good morning and I sure was hoping that Ben and I could both make the team, knowing too, that as long as we gave it our best, we’d make it and maybe even get to play the last two games on the JR. Varsity program.The coaches let the best players do this if they’re that good.I arrived at the gym and went inside to meet Terry. I walked up and knocked.