We spent the evening talking, laughing, and getting to know each other, until the restaurant closed. We stood outside talking more, while I was desper...tely trying to work up the courage to kiss her. I had a weak plan in mind, and I went with it. As we were taking and laughing I would take a step forward towards her. When we were laughing at something particularly hilarious, I wrapped my arm around her waist. Before I could lose my nerve, I moved my hand to her hip, brought my free hand to her. It has certainly rubbed off on you and Rory, for you show that same concern and this is reflected on what you have done for us." More than that," Ross chipped in, "The fact that you could afford to buy a property in St Andrews for your student years confirms that, but from your attitude and your acceptance of people around you we never suspected how well off you were or the influence your family had in your local area." The thing about having money is something you often take for granted," Phil. " I'll say."Ben ordered a sandwich and watched the girls perform. He didn't approach the stage or pay any of the girls for a lap dance. He knew Ellen wasn't going to cut back on expenses, so he figured he would have to start.After finishing eating, Ben headed back to the office and started working. Unlike the last couple of days, he was focused in the afternoon. He worked through five o'clock and up till seven. His friend Jeremy calling finally broke him out of his trance."Hey, Ben! Where the. I was so incredibly moved. No one has ever said or written anything so heartfelt to me. I doubted anyone ever would or could. I had so much trouble concentrating on my studies in the ensuing days. I knew from Cindy’s next phone conversation she felt the same. By now, Christmas vacation was only a couple of weeks away. Her thoughts of me overtook her mind as much as my thoughts of her overtook mine. I literally had trouble doing simple things, the thoughts of her were becoming so all consuming..