There are some things I need to know first. But my point is that I need as much separation from home and my job as I can get, OK? This way it's better...for everyone. So if I don't tell you stuff, don't be mad. And if I want you to help me keep secrets from Steve, I hope you understand that it's for his benefit, too." This is really a job to you?" Bud asked."I think of it that way. A job. A career. Whatever. It's what I'm going to be doing with my life. Like I told Sue, the pay sucks, but there. Has Lucy Klintt been booked yet?’ ‘Not yet. I spoke to the arresting officer not more than…’ the sergeant looked over to the dispatcher. She held up both hands and spread her fingers open and shut two times. ‘About twenty minutes ago.’ The dispatcher held up a sheaf of papers. ‘They’re real busy downstairs right now. They’ll be booking her soon.’ Roth was silent for a moment. ‘Any reporters there?’ Thurman looked over at the dispatcher. ‘No, none here. No call either.’ ‘I better get in. Just in. I pass. Idon't want to be a cheerleader," I said kind of bitchy."Hahaha. Cheerleader!" Neil laughed."I bet you're looking forward to the Homecoming game?" Mrs. Richards saidlooking at me and Michael.As my mouth slowly fell and just hanged open, Mom added, "Oh I can't waitto take Charlie shopping for her dress." My dress? Homecoming?" I said finally finding words again."OMG! Has Michael not even asked you yet?" Mom asked."What? Please no!" I said with scariness in my voice.Just then Michael. She took the coffee with her only comment, “Thank you, kind sir, should I pay you now or later in your room?”This was out of personality for her, but I played along and told her, “You have to pay me the old fashioned way with your ankles over your shoulders.”The remark made her giggle even more and I saw both Sam and Misty look in our direction at the same time. Sam was frowning but she gave me a victory sign with her fingers spread widely. Misty was grinning from ear to ear and I remembered.