" Did anyone say how many words they wanted?" This sounded like a very loosey-goosey proposition."Well, no, they didn't. Maybe you can write something...up and they will let you know if it's too short or too long." Charlotte, I can see this is important to you. You will be prominently featured in this story because you had so much to do with its final appearance. But, if you don't mind, I'd like to talk to the art director or the editor and get some idea of the parameters of this article." Oh .... I had heard stories and interrupted a few of their more insane ones. I had caught Britney once balanced on my fence on one leg. Another time, Shannon was trying to get on the roof of my house and broke the trellis. Luckily, she hadn't broken any of her bones, just some wood. Suddenly, worry spiked through me. All thought of sleep was gone. I wanted Mary here where I could protect her. I needed to relax so bad. I glanced at the kettle. Steam trickled out the end. I could hear the water. The rest of them was fairly obvious however. Their long flaming red hair set off their smooth alabaster skin and, as I drew closer, I could see that they had a light sprinkling of freckles.They had on Forest Green velvet dresses that set off their deep green eyes, which I finally saw when being interviewed. The skirts of the dresses were very full and extended to within a few inches of the porch floor. I finally realized, as I neared the porch, that there were petticoats under their dresses. "I have to admit that I was furious," the Dean admitted. "It's been along time since anyone dared to talk to me like that. Like Marge usedto." Your wife?" Tommi asked hesitantly.The Dean nodded. "Marge used to get cross with me when she wanted to letme know I was out of line. Since ... well, you know...." He bit his lipagain. "She was a steadying influence for me, and I miss that." I'm sorry," Tommi apologized. "I didn't mean to bring up bad memories."The Dean shook his head. "You.