When they returned to Davenport, the couple briefly stepped into Mike’s apartment to change out of their formal clothing. Ruthie took off her uncomf...rtable dress, hoping it would be a very long time before she would have to wear it again. She didn’t see why she would; no formal events were coming up that she was aware of. It was warm enough for her to wear the red dress that Mike had bought her when they first started going out in October. How long ago that seemed, and yet it was only slightly. "Promise me we can leave a nice wet mess on something expensive in here."I chuckled. "We'll see. Hello, Gloria. Sorry I'm late. I had a few staff issues." Come work for me, boys. I promise I'll only sexually harass you once a week." Gloria opened the door herself for us. "Maybe twice." Gloria, you poach my boys, you know I'm just going to spend more of my time, lounging on your couches and drinking your booze." I chuckled."Oh but that's the point! You know I've just been trying to get you in my. Cynthia Hosier wanted to bookmore practice time and classes. She said something about a dance contestagainst another girl. Do you know something about this Maren?" I was drinking my wine at the time and choked hearing it. After somecoughing and help from Shane I was ready to answer Mom's question."Actually I do Mom. I'm the other girl she wants to beat dancing in thecontest." Now it was Mom's turn to almost choke on the food that she waschewing. Shane helped her and tried to be funny, "If I. You needed that. I don’t know how I’d handle what you’ve been through, or do what you’ve been doing.” “But you’re so strong.” “Maybe. But I know I must have my breaking point too. Everyone does. I just haven’t reached mine yet. If I’m lucky, perhaps I never will. How are you feeling now?” “Better,” I said truthfully. “Stronger. I’d been dreading going back, but now I feel I’ll be able to face it.” We stayed like that for a while, she cradling me and gently stroking and kissing me, I turning my.