I forgot to tell Jack to have you wear it, but I'm glad you did."Cookie shrugged again and finished her beer and Sharky quickly got her another one, p...pping the top before he handed it to her and depositing the tab in the trash can.I took a swig of mine."Do you know just how pretty you are?" he asked her.Cookie took a drink from her fresh beer, looking up at him over the rim of the can. "I've been told," she stated. "I don't pay no attention. What does it matter?" It matters to boys, Cookie.. She told me, "No, if he's not I don't want to know it right now."I looked over at her, pleased that she wasn't calling him. I remembered the first time Michelle was with Mike and the angst I went through that night, but stop her? Not in my wildest dreams would I have asked her to stop! I hoped Eric felt the same way I had.I dropped Ginger off under the hotel’s porte-cochere and parked the car. It was a good thing we had reservations because with the snow storm the hotel parking lot was nearly. I think we fit well together. Your presence brightens my day. Makes me feel complete."She smiled. "Good! Good answer! Then it's settled!" What's settled?"Giggle. "You and me. We're going steady. I feel better already." This evening has been a roller coaster, Jo. You're the best part of it." What about Mom and Dad?" Right below you on the 'good things for today' list." I would add our little talk." Which one?" The one where you had to tell me what my dad knew."She watched my face. Saw something. Marie, who had been seated nearby reading a book, looked up to ask, "Will you need me?"I pursed my lips. "Not immediately." I have set up another room so that one of us may have privacy," she murmured, her eyes on mine. Clearly, she was aware that her duties were in the process of suffering a reduction."Very well," I nodded. "Do not feel that you must sleep alone -- but you may if you wish." I allowed Jolene to tug me away.In my bedroom, Jolene undressed me; while she did so, I asked, "Will.