There was a great deal of mutual sounding out of each other going on. Questions about what The Boys were doing at OSU, what grades Julia, Carol and Do...na were in. Stuff like that, with the questions about me being deflected.When dessert was finished, Vanessa got us to move to the living room for coffees and conversation.Robert said, "Andrew and I will clear the table and take care of the dishes, Mom."Vanessa answered, "Thanks. Just do the bare minimum please because I'd like you to come back. Awhile before I can act all sane about these things. As much as the horny boy in me wants her naked in my cabin every night, the realistic somewhat sane boy in me wants to keep her as far away as possible." He looked back over at Lessa. "And ... I know I'm going to have to keep sending you into danger, but the part of me that keeps mourning over Cynthia will want to keep you safe even if it kills us all."Lessa squeezed his hand."I won't let you be weak because of me. Or let you keep me out of. I am his wife and I have sworn to obey him in all things." But surely..." You have no idea how it saddens me to say this. I must stay with my husband and son." I cannot say that I understand, but I respect your decision. I suppose this means goodbye." Yes, my dear sweet Kitsu. Goodbye."He rose, slowly putting on his jacket."I hope if you know nothing else, that you will forever know that you are admired and respected ... and loved."With that he turned and although Niomi wanted with all her. "Something to drink?"She looked at me, her eyes tense and pooling tears. I smiled at her, trying to communicate my support and friendship. It seemed to help. I thought of something that might encourage her relaxation. I stood and removed my jeans, leaving the navy blue boxer shorts tented and stroking the tenting pole.It worked. She smiled and licked her lips. "I'm sorry. There's rosé in the fridge." She opened a drawer and pulled out a corkscrew. When she handed it to me, her eyes riveted.