Mary looked around the club and commented “Very nice place, love the décor, they go all out for you Navy guys.” Ace nodded and Nicole said “...eah, we love it here, lots of fly boys in white” and let forth a lecherous chuckle. The drinks arrived and each began to sip down their own drink of preference as they visited. Mary gave Ace an inquisitive look as he searched the room for a likely candidate to satisfy Mary’s challenge; none were to be seen, not yet at least. As the. It was like a parasite was eating away his joy, draining him of life. When I had seen his face two nights ago, I had known that death was involved. It was the same look my mother had worn after her father had passed. That much stayed the same across cultures. He had tried to be stoic, noting that Benny had been old and housebound for years. Maybe it was even a release after years of dialysis and surgery. He could tilt his lips up in a parody of a smile and mouth those platitudes, but he. .. I hope I have not disturbed you ... I am sorry for...” she said in a very unsure voice.“Oh come on Sejal...” I cut her off, “I am so glad to hear your voice...”Hearing my words, I could feel her relax on the phone. “Tell me, sweetheart...” I said in a soothing voice “ ... how did you happen to think of me today?”She seemed to be searching for words, and I could hear her swallow.“Bhaiya ... today we are leaving for our picnic ... so I thought...” she began tentatively.“Yes sweetheart...” I. Unemotional, unassuming, but stupid man behind the mask. Didn't I expect this? Well if I had to try it with someone. I chose to put her on my work list of providing for, along with my parents and so called friends. I wish I could let u know the joy she showed, as I became the man she sought.What would I not give to see it on a face when I ripped my mask!Then, the story usual. We met a few times. I got her wish list. I tried to give her one she could fulfill. Occasional truths were shot down as.