“I heard you went to the forest to collect wood,” she said softly, “is this all that you have collected?”I smiled, and replied, “No, Violet,...I am afraid it is not. I will have to return to the woods a few more times. There are about eighteen logs I must bring back and they are quite heavy, so it will take a while. In fact, I am not sure if I will be done until sometime tomorrow afternoon, maybe longer.”This must have upset her, because for once, a scowl came across her face, and then an instant. " Gracie looked like she was contemplating something saying finally, "You really have me on tape screwing? Do you want to watch it with me? I want to see how good I am." No! Come on Gracie. I'm trying to treat you with some respect which is more than you deserve. Don't push me too far. There is a limit to my tolerance. I have loved you and I still have some affection for you even though you haven't returned it."Tears finally showed in her eyes. "I know Reed, it is just starting to hit me that. Mom said Afreen was here to meet me. I was flustered, I looked at her and Afreen asked if I could give her a ride to a nearby mall. I was bit confused and shocked, stuttering I said yes. We went down together, talking in the elevator. Afreen told me that her scooter was sent for servicing and that it was her birthday on Tuesday, and therefore she had some shopping to do which is why she asked my help. I got my Fz from the parking and came to the entrance where Afreen waited for me.She got in. However, the biggest hurdle to get over would be my parents. Since Brandon was going be away the week between Christmas and New Year’s at his dad’s cottage up north with Kellie, I planned to spend a couple of days over Christmas with my parents in Sarasota. Rick insisted on joining me. ‘Christmas? With my parents? Really?’ I asked. ‘Are you really sure you want to do that? I’m only staying a few days.’ ‘I know,’ he said. ‘You’ve already met my folks and I’d like to meet yours. And since it’s on.