"I was seeing someone back in college, but itdidn't really click. She joined the Peace Corps, and I think she'ssomewhere in Africa." It was a lie, but...it sounded better than thetruth, thought Jack. She had actually broken up with Jack because shedidn't want to settle down. It was the story of his life and everyrelationship he had been in ended up the same way."So she didn't like the idea of you going to work in the corporateworld?'"Something like that," replied Jack. "Anyway, I've been too busy. He brought them out to the living room and I followed, watching as he put on a game show. We sat there together, not really paying attention to the TV or even to the delicious food in front of us.I thought for a long time in that darkened living room, my shoulder against Patrick’s. I loved Patrick and he loved me. Maybe it wouldn’t always be rainbows and unicorns and pixie dust. In fact, it wasn’t even that now. The point was you never really know if loving one another is always going to be. Melissa picked up the car seat and followed Ariana into the house. ‘What do you think?’ Bobby asked, standing next to his father who looked pleased. ‘It’s beautiful,’ Ariana said honestly as she looked around. ‘Come see your kitchen,’ Bethany grabbed Ariana by the hand and led her to the kitchen. ‘It’s amazing,’ Ariana breathed. ‘Is that the latest stand mixer?’ she asked. ‘Yes, it is. Bobby had us order the top of the line, he wants you to have the best,’ Bethany answered. ‘It’s amazing,’. Sir, I am grateful to have a master that has treated me well. I have grown stronger, both physically and mentally. I have...”“Heather, stop. I am too drained to discuss Page’s philosophy today.” Carl walked over to what he had begun to think of as ‘his’ chair. “Come here.”Heather stood and moved to the chair and, at Carl’s direction, climbed into his lap facing him. The sweaty white sports bra and shorts had become semi-transparent. Carl liked the effect and ran his hand over her fabric covered.