Perverts 'R' Us

All the Usual Suspects

By Jack Spratt ( M/f, cons, lolita )

Chapter 1

The rain continued to fall, making a miserable day worse. The weather just added to my dismal feeling of living in a one room dump in a very seedy hotel. The peeling wall paper had long outlived its more glamorous days. My only solace is the ancient color television sitting in one corner of the room. Via a makeshift antenna made from three coat hangers, I receive three local channels. My small hotplate sits on a table near the dingy window; next to it is a small battered refrigerator. The rest of my worldly possessions are in two green garbage bags stacked beside the door.

Three years ago my structured life came to a crashing halt. My, then, wife who wanted to move on to a new lover, a gigolo she had met on the job, reported me to the authorities accusing me of molesting my six-year-old step-daughter. Although all the charges were unfounded, I lost my job, was branded, without proof, as a pervert and was thrown to the wolves. My so-called friends quickly distanced themselves from me like I had developed a communicable disease. The only thing that saved me from doing myself in was the knowledge that I was innocent, but it was a hard go. The thought of ever harming our daughter in any way shape or form was completely out of the question.

Although nothing was ever proven, even after a lengthy police investigation and all charges dropped, my life changed forever. My respected job was lost, my employer, the prick, called me into his office, voiced sympathy, offered me a severance package, and asked for my resignation all in the same breath. I was escorted to my desk to empty it in front of the staff and then led to the main door. Everything in my life went downhill from that point.

All that happened nearly three years ago. You have heard of living hell; well that is what I have lived through in person. Although having a good education, my life flawless to the point of accusation, people don't accept the fact that I am innocent. They assume for some reason because of the stigma, some of it must be true. My life has been the shits.

At thirty-six, my live has become a sham. My name is Michael Graves, now single; my loving ex received a divorce decree, two months after this all started. She got everything she wanted. The sympathetic judge in Family Court sided with my wife and swiftly tossed me aside, declaring I was to have no contact with my step-daughter for fifteen years. My ex and young Linda moved out of the state two years ago. I have no idea where they are and really don't give a shit. My only regret is not being able to see Linda. All through this mess she never did understand what happened to her daddy, I am sure her mother did her best to poison my memory. Her real dad had been killed in an auto accident when she was six months old; I was the only father figure she had ever known.

Someday, I will attempt to find her, but now I have to dig myself out of this mess. For the last two years I have been employed by a firm that handles temps for various industries. It doesn't sound too glamorous, but after nearly a year of no employment anything is an improvement. A very small army pension as a result of gunshot in the ass kept me from starving and in this marvelous abode.

For a year after the incident, I attempted to find work in my field, four times hired and four times fired when the personal departments came across the story of my perverted past. With the temp outfit, they couldn't care less about your background as long as you weren't a wanted fugitive. Being assigned to various factories, they only looked at me as slave labor to get a job done. The pay wasn't great, but it kept me ahead of the game. I had started a small savings account, giving me a new feeling of being alive.

Although I was never convicted of anything, every time anything regarding children comes across a police organization's desk, I am pulled and grilled, as part of "All the Usual Suspects". It is like I have a branded 'P' for pervert across my brow. It has happened eight times, fortunately usually in the evening when I am at home, there is a police car waiting outside my fleabag hotel. Hell, it is outside my hotel usually every night, fortunately, not always for me. In this neighborhood, being picked up by the police is not a social setback. That gives you an idea of the type of people that frequent this fleabag hotel.

The last two times I was put in a lineup with a number of low-lifes. In both cases, young girls were molested and left unconscious. One was seven and the other eight, each time I nearly lost my cookies when the police questioned me asking if I enjoyed the doing things like that to little girls. Hell, I never knew those things were done to little girls. Not that I led a sheltered life; I just never read a newspaper, and news programs were not my bag. In each case, at the time of the crimes, I was at work with numerous witnesses and each time they reluctantly had to release me.

As a result of this continual harassment, I started to research the topic. Fortunately, a large public library is only four blocks from my abode. Considering the neighborhood, it was very well equipped. The computers are programmed to do searches on all types of topics. Over a three month period, I read numerous accounts about child molestation, each case turning my stomach. My conclusion is that these are not men or women, they are animals. After researching, my life changed.

Since being an outcast, I keep to myself. My indulgences are a fast food meal on payday and roaming the mall, daydreaming while looking at the clothes I used to wear in my old life as a successful business man. In the lounge area, there is usually a current paper left by others that would provide me with an hour or two of distraction. Because I never hassled anyone, security left me alone to enjoy my small respite. This used to be a good diversion for me, but something changed my outlook.

I start to notice the many young girls moving through the mall, laughing and joking with their peers. Each one was a target for those sick perverts I researched. That thought made me feel sick. Over time, I learned to appreciate the beauty of these young females. Going home, memories of the girls would flow through my mind. In my past I had never looked upon preteens in sexual overtones. Conversely, my research and observations made me realize the beauty and potential of the younger set. However, with my background and being one of the usual suspects, I kept my growing interest to myself.

With no restrictions on my movements, I plan on making a giant leap and change my life. My employer has offices all over the country, and the only way my life will change is to modify my environment. My savings had built up to nearly one thousand dollars, enough for a bus ticket and some new clothes. It is my hope to change my fortunes for the better. With a letter from my employer addressed to any one of its affiliates I climb on a bus with all my worldly possessions in a battered suitcase. My refrigerator and television netted me one hundred and ten dollars from the new tenant of my old room. I converted my savings into traveler's checks, hidden in my shoe.

After three days of traveling, welcome signs to Crescent City gave me a glimmer of hope. Like all cities, it wasn't long before I found suitable lodgings. This hotel is like the Ritz compared to what I left, the rooms are equipped with a television, hot plate and a full sized refrigerator.

The first port of call is the temp agency. Presenting the letter to the receptionist, she asks me to have a seat and disappears into the innards of the office, shortly to return.

"Mr. Chase will see you in a minute. You are new to Crescent City?"

"Yes, I arrived last night. Your office in Redding was kind enough to provide me with a letter of introduction."

"We can always use more good employees. Some don't last a week."

She goes back to her computer and telephone. I listen as she fields inquires and makes arrangement for workers. She is a very busy person. Then there is a beep on the intercom. She picks up the receiver, drops it and looks at me smiling.

"Mr. Chase will see you now, through the second door on your left."

At the door, I knock.

"Come in."

"Please have a seat Mr. Graves, welcome to Crescent City, I just got off the telephone to Redding, you were with them nearly two years."

"Yes sir."

"That has to be a record. People usually don't stay with us that long, most just disappear."

"I needed the work."

"How long do you plan to say in Crescent City?"

"I am hoping to re-establish myself here."

"Have you gone through a divorce?"

That question surprises me, since he didn't ask when the divorce happened, I answered with a yes.

"I thought so; a man with your stature doesn't make a move without reason."

At this point he is assuming something on his own. Realizing the clothing makes the man, I dressed in my brand new suit and all the accessories, looking like I did when I was involved in research. Mr. Chase has placed me as an office type.

"Sometimes a change will make the difference; do you have something for me?"

"How are your computer skills?"

"I have used them for many years, better than most, I suspect."

"Good, you are in luck. I just had a call from Empire Industries; they have a three month contract for someone in their accounting department, would you be interested?"

"Very much."

"It pays better than our usual contracts. Bear with me for a moment, I will call them and see exactly what they are looking for."

I am nervous, hoping he wouldn't ask me anything about my background. Watching him dial the number, my tongue is in my throat.

"Is Gregg available?"

"Gregg, Chase here, I think I have someone to fill your contract."

All the while he is looking at me, nodding his head.

"Microsoft XP?"

"Microsoft Office?"

"Gregg, he is in my office as we speak and confirmed he is familiar with both. Good, I will tell him where to report."

Feeling exhilarated, he hangs up, makes notes on a printed form which I later realize is a confirmation of placement and hands it to me.

"Mr. Adams will expect you at his office at eight tomorrow morning. They work from eight-thirty until four every day. It is a good company, they usually don't use temps, but for some reason they need one for this contract. I suspect they have too many employees on holidays to cover for themselves. Any questions?"

"No, I will do my best to satisfy them."

"Good, I can't ask for more."

Clutching the paper as I leave the building, it feels like I am floating on air. Finally, after all this time, no more being a laborer. This could be the turning point in my life I have been praying for. Back at my room, I change into street clothes and cruise the neighborhood. Within two blocks there is a large grocery store, a small mall that has many small stores and a Wal-Mart. At the local bank, I open an account and deposit my traveler's checks. Then to the grocery store for staples, I head home.

In the morning after a substantial breakfast, I head to my new job. There is bus service right to the front door. Not knowing if I'm allowed to brownbag it, I have enough money to purchase lunch. It is ten to eight when I approach security.

"I am the new temp employee, Michael Graves; I am to meet with Mr. Adams."

"Please have a seat while I confirm."

Seating facing security, as nervous as a cat, my stomach seems full of butterflies and at any moment I have the feeling of tossing my cookies. All the while he is talking the security guard is watching me. Then he hangs up.

"Welcome, Mr. Graves. Mr. Adams is on his way down to escort you to personnel."

A shiver goes through my body. More papers to fill out and, with them, the possibility of uncovering my past during their investigation. Shit, I don't have anything to be ashamed of, but it makes me feel like a criminal anyway. The door opens and a very large man with a beaming smile walks towards me his hand extended.

"Mr. Graves, I am Gregg Adams, manager of Empire Industries. Welcome."

"Thank you."

"The first thing we have to do is get you a pass, this building is secure, and without an ID, you won't be able to move anywhere. Everybody has to go through this, but it is painless."

Entering a small room to my left, there is a small desk, a locked metal door; I can see an attractive young lady behind thick security glass. Empire Industries take their safety measures seriously. Her voice comes out of a speaker mounted beside the window.

"Mr. Graves, please fill out the form on the desk and let me know when it is completed."

It is the usual employment application. Working through most of the investigation period of the so called child abuse, then my employment as a temp so there are no gaps in my employment history, I am finished. The reason for leaving my last major job, I stated marital problems. The rest I answered as honestly as possible. Standing up, I get her attention.

"I am done?"

"Please put it in the drawer. This usually takes twenty minutes or more, please take a seat."

The moment of truth, I watch as she inputs the information into a program in her computer. Then she reviews her work and hits enter. She looks at me and smiles, then starts filing items into the many folders on her desk. In what feels like an eternity, but is only about two minutes, a printer off to her left starts to pump out sheets of papers.

This doesn't seem to faze her as she continues her filing chores. When the printer stops she gathers all the sheets, squares the bundle and hammers a staple through a corner. She then starts to read. Me, I have all kinds of demons pushing my stomach. At times like this, I can only wish my wife and her new beau get AIDS complicated with cancer.

The few minutes it takes for her to review the information, seems like hours to me. She whirls around and faces some kind of a machine, but her back is blocking my view. Then she turns, smiling and carries an ID card to the window.

"Carry this at all times in the building. It is coded to give you access to your work areas. If it doesn't open a door, it means you are not approved to enter that area, but it does work on all washrooms."

The drawer opens and revealing a coded card on a string to encircle my neck. Just then the door opens and Mr. Adams comes in.

"Well, you passed everything with flying colors. Follow me; I will introduce you to your immediate superior."

Mr. Adams guides me to a door. I swipe and hear a load click. He moves by me and approaches a maternal lady. She is dressed in business attire and as we move closer, her scent encompasses me, very sexy and sensual.

"Mrs. Archer, this is Michael Graves, the new temp you have been requesting. He is knowledgeable in both Windows XP and Microsoft Office. Treat him gently, at least until I leave the room."

Then turning to me, he smiles.

"Good luck, you are going to need it. Mrs. Archer is a hard task master."

I watch as he disappears through the same door we entered. Looking at Mrs. Archer, she has a large smile on her face.

"He is just kidding. Come on, I will show you your work area."

Along the way she introduces me to a number of employees, desperately, I try to remember the names, but give up after six. At my desk, she outlines what my tasks will be. Simple actually, considering the small number of files on the desk; they will be completed in less than an hour.

"We quit for lunch at twelve, back at one. There is a cafeteria down the hall, but most of us brown-bag it. I notice you didn't bring a lunch."

"First day, wasn't sure of the protocol."

"Well, if you like, brown-bag it and eat with the rest of us. The cafeteria has good food and it is reasonable. The company subsidizes it."

During the morning I am at her desk three times with my assignments completed. Each time she looks at me surprised. Later, when passing my desk, she reminds me it is lunchtime. The cafeteria lived up to her comments; the food was good and the price very reasonable. Tonight, I will figure out if it is worth while brown-bagging it. Returning after lunch, she must have taken my work ethic seriously because there are at least two feet of files on my desk and additional full boxes on the floor.

Hell, it feels good to be working in an office again. It has been a long grind between desks. Before quitting time, I managed to complete all the files on my desk plus one of the boxes on the floor.

"At the rate you're going Mr. Graves; you will be working yourself out of a job. I can't believe you completed all those files. I have to tell you, I had fifteen of your files pulled at random and rechecked, all were as prescribed. You do good work."

"Thank you Mrs. Archer, I appreciate the opportunity."

Leaving the building, my ID card in my pocket, I am on top of the world. The bus is at my stop within ten minutes. This is great.

For the next two months, they provide me with more in-depth work, each assignment I am able to complete well within the allotted time. Over time I met the balance of the staff in this department. There are a total of sixteen, including Mrs. Archer, with whom I am now on a first-name basis. There are six women, counting Mrs. Archer, and ten men. The men get along well, with little or no friction, actually they are very supportive of each other, and if one of us is finished we will help anyone who is still struggling. That can't be said about the women. There seems to be a silent battle going on daily.

One thing I do notice is none of the employees complain about the company. It appears Empire Industries is one of the most employee friendly companies in Crescent City. Learning this makes me feel very fortunate about the timing of my venturing to the city. Another nice thing about my co-workers is they do not ask me about my former employers. We often eat together and the discussion is about families and sports. Mostly, I nod in agreement with the conversations, occasionally adding something about football.

During the last week of my third month, I have a sinking feeling as the deadline of my contract is approaching. One thing I will have is an excellent recommendation from the firm; this was confirmed by Mrs. Archer and Mr. Chase. On Thursday of the final week, Mrs. Archer comes to my desk.

"Michael, Mr. Chase would like to see you in his office."

"Thank you, Mrs. Adams. I'll just finish this file and go."

My assumption is the request has to do with the termination tomorrow. Walking to his office, I have a feeling of loss. It has been a good three months. Putting on my best face, I knock.

"Come in, Michael."

Opening the door, he is not alone; the young lady that processed my application on the first day is standing in a corner. An uneasy feeling overcomes me, like an axe is about to fall. Did they uncover my past?

"Have a seat, would you like refreshment? Alice, would you please get me a coffee and whatever Mr. Graves would like and of course something for yourself. Yes, I know it not in your job description, but I said please."

My mind has me requesting a cup of hemlock.

"Coffee would be nice."

"Sit down Michael, don't look so serious. Your contract is over tomorrow, you did a helluva job, so good actually I may have some good news for you."

Now he has my interest, what good news.

"Are you contracted to the temp firm in any way?"

"No, I have never signed anything with them. Originally, they wanted me to sign an agreement that I could not be hired by any of the companies I worked for, for a year. I refused."

"Well, I am glad to hear that. I have an offer for you."

Just as he was starting to mention the offer, Alice returned with the coffee.

Now this is getting good, he has my undivided attention. My spirits are rising.

"How would you like to work for Empire Industries on a permanent basis?"

"Very much so, I enjoy working here."

"Well, I am sure the pay will be much better than what you have been receiving over the past three months and we have a top benefit package. The three months you have worked here are considered your probation period, so you will start as a full-time permanent employee on Monday."

"I don't know what to say other than thank you very much. I won't let you down."

"Your work ethics have been proven; we never expected the volume of work you did from a temp."

"You paid me to do a job and I did it to the best of my ability."

"Alice, would you notify finance that Mr. Graves is now a full-time permanent employee as of this coming Monday. Also, tell them his probationary period was from his hire date until today. Be sure to change your badge information to reflect he's a full-time permanent employee."

After the coffee, I returned to my work area, but is seems my good fortune has proceeded me. When I enter my work area, all sixteen of my co-workers give me a standing ovation. There is much hand-shaking and congratulations from everyone. I have to admit I am close to tears of joy.

From that day forward, the memories of the mess concerning my ex start to fade into a small corner of my mind. The yoke of "One of the Usual Suspects" slowly dissipates into darkness.

Five months into the job, my relationship with the rest of the staff develops. My story is that I have no living relations, and that is true, other than a step-daughter who I miss very much. Even though I said I didn't care where they are, I have been looking for Linda surreptitiously. It is accepted and never comes up in conversion. One of my co-workers is Veronica Simpson, a very attractive brunette with a body that makes all men realize they are men. She is happily married with two daughters, one ten and the other twelve, both going on twenty. "Two hellions that should be kept away from the world," those are her words. Don, her husband, works at an auto plant in Quality Control. They have been married thirteen years. We often enjoy lunch together. Over time I have become a regular in the cafeteria; my meal is on the counter before I reach it. I always get the special of the day. One day at lunch, Veronica, looking as beautiful as usual, looks at me.

"What?"

"How can you eat the same thing on the same day every week?"

"It is not hard; I get five different meals a week. I am not hard to please."

With that comment, she starts to laugh. She is reading a lot more into that statement than my eating habits. She has been the focus of a number of my dreams over the last couple of months with her very dark complexion and full lips that are usually graced by an inspiring shade of lip gloss. Her wardrobe, although very business-oriented, amplified her magnificent body. Her laugh portrayed sexual overtones, not that she was trying to entice anyone, but it's just her makeup.

"Get your mind out of the gutter."

"Well, you said it, not me. When are you going to get out of that shell you have built around yourself and start living again? You are not that hard on the eyes, you know."

"Well, thank you so much for the analysis, you aren't too bad yourself."

That comment gets me a kick in the knee. But it is obvious she likes it. Her smile shows marvelous teeth. Veronica licks her lips with her fabulous pink tongue and for the first time in a long time, my hero starts to stir. All I could think of at that moment is how much I would love to be in bed with her. Hell, it causes me to blush, something not lost on Veronica.

"Are you thinking dirty thoughts? Are they about me? Now I know my opinion about you is true. You are a dirty old man."

"Hell, I'm really not that old! Lunch tomorrow?"

"Why not? I enjoy watching you devour that Sheppard's Pie."

Later that evening surveying my abode, I decide it is time to look for a decent apartment. My remuneration has increase four-fold from being a temp. I never realized just how good Empire Industries is to their employees. My benefit plan is second to none and at a very low cost. My wardrobe has increased to five suits, plus three casual outfits for Casual Fridays. Scouring the Crescent City Gazette's Apartments for rent, I notice one three blocks from the office. Using the pay telephone, I find out it is well within my budget and make arrangements for a viewing after work tomorrow. It took me a while to get to sleep that night.

At lunch the next day, I blurt out my news to Veronica. She is totally supportive of my moving up in the world. Her hand comes over and pats me on the arm. It felt like an electrical charge ending up in my tool.

"That is good news Michael; it will give you permanency and a place to bring the girls."

"What girls?"

"I will never tell."

She gives me that tongue-licking-her-lips routine again. As much as I enjoy her teasing, I would love to do more with her.

"Would you like a second opinion about the apartment?"

"What do you mean?"

"If you like, I will come with you and give you a woman's point of view."

"What about your family?"

"I will call Don and tell him I will be a little late. Actually, he is interested in meeting you. I keep telling him about your little idiosyncrasies."

"I don't have any idiosyncrasies."

"Oh, yes you do! Your lunches. I never talk about the days of the week, just the specials of the day, and he knows what day I am referring to."

"Glad to provide you and your family some amusement. I don't mind. I enjoy your company."

Making plans to meet outside the building at four thirty, the conversation switches directions.

"Are you coming to the company picnic this weekend?"

"What picnic?"

"You know those memos you get in your email every day? You are supposed to read them."

"I do, to the ones that refer to me. The others, I delete."

She looks at me shaking her head in disgust. Then reaches over and gives me a pretend slap. Again it is like being touched with an electric cattle prod that ends up in my cock. The more I look at Veronica, the more I find her fascinating.

"Well, it is in the park across the street, I assume you know there is park there."

"There is?"

"Boy, I am going to have to really take you under my wing and guide you. You're like a lost puppy."

Of course my mind has me under her arm nuzzling her breast, enjoying what has to be a lovely nipple. That blush returns.

"Your mind is in the gutter again. You are going to the picnic. Be in front of the office at ten, Saturday in the morning. Jeans are appropriate.

You will meet the whole family. Time to get back to work. See you in front of the building later."

One of the reasons I like working here is no one ever bothers me. I am assigned work at the beginning of each day and usual have to ask Mrs. Archer if there is something else I can do. My first rating is in two months and if it is good, there is a raise involved.

At four thirty, I am waiting on the sidewalk for Veronica.

"Sorry I am late; the address of the building is this way. Let's walk. It is only three blocks."

She must have checked the map or she knew the city well. It is a comfortable day. The temperature is just right and the alternate clouds defuse the sun. As we walk we continually seem to bump into each other. Veronica's body is firm, but padded with feminine softness. I would love to put my arm around her waist, but am not that bold. The apartment building is impressive, eleven stories and relatively new.

"This complex was built three years ago. This was an old slaughter yard, then a wrecking yard over the years."

A sign in the foyer indicated the superintendent was in apartment #107. Pushing the buzzer, we waited.

"Yes?"

"This is Michael Graves; I have an appointment to view an apartment."

"Oh yes, Mr. Graves, I have been expecting you. I'll be there in just a moment."

We watch a very attractive woman with long blond hair approach the security door. When she opens the latch there is a loud click.

"Come in. Is this your wife?"

Veronica starts to laugh. I, being all embarrassed and blushing, quickly corrected her misimpression.

"No, this is my co-worker; she thought a woman's opinion might be of some service."

"Oh, I know you will be impressed, it is a very large apartment, very bright and just repainted. The last tenant got transferred. They had been here since the building opened."

The apartment, which was on the seventh floor, more than lived up to its fanfare. Twenty minutes later, she had my deposit. I had my lease and a furniture problem. I didn't have any. It would make a large hole in my savings, but it would be worth it. I had made it at last, never again to be one of "All the Usual Suspects."

Walking back to Veronica's car, she mentioned furniture.

"There is a small store over on Eleventh Street that we use. The prices are good, and on packages they usually give you a good deal."

With the name and address of the store, I watched Veronica drive away. That would be my next hurdle - a car; but first came the furniture. It was nine blocks to the west, which I covered in twenty minutes. The sign said open until ten every day but Sunday. Inside, the place was crammed with furniture and the usual accessories. Out of the back office came an elderly black man, all smiles.

"How can I help you?"

"Well, I need a lot of help; I need to furnish a four room apartment, starting from scratch. Veronica Simpson recommended you."

"I know the family well. How do you know Mrs. Simpson?"

"We both work at Empire Industries."

An hour later and four thousand dollars poorer, arrangements were made to deliver at the end of the month. I would take possession on the first, but since the apartment was empty, the superintendent mentioned that I could move my furniture in early. That night I felt exhilarated as well as apprehensive about the quick changes in my life.

During the balance of the week, Veronica pounded into my head that I would be at the picnic and enjoy myself. In the happier times of my marriage, we as a family volunteered for all kinds of communal work. My nickname was the 'Hamburger Man'. I spent plenty of time over numerous barbeques.

Chapter 2

Saturday morning, I am standing in front of the office in my jeans and new Nikes. It isn't long before Veronica's car drives into the company parking lot. I can see it is full of people, but can't make them out due to the privacy glass. Dutifully waiting at the gate for them to appear, I am surprised to see her husband is black; just a slight surprise. My greatest shock is her two daughters. Both are outfitted in those new low-riders that have to be painted onto their young bodies and cut off T-shirts exposing beautiful glowing skin. An embarrassing stirring in my loins has me shuffling my feet.

"Hi Michael, this is my husband Don and these two monsters are our offspring. Actually, I think we got short-changed at the hospital, they have to be somebody else's kids."

"Oh mom, he doesn't want to hear that."

"That is Tania, she is the older of the two, and this is Terrie."

I am sure my mouth is hanging open. Realizing Veronica is also wearing low-riders and exposing a very beautiful dangling jewel from her navel. Don notices my predicament.

"How are you, Michael? Don't let them play mind games on you. They do that on purpose. They try it on me all the time. Just try to ignore them."

That will be easier said than done. There is no way those two man-killers can be ten and twelve, both are built like the proverbial brick shithouse. The tight T-shirts accent what can only be described as the eighth wonders of the world. Both are sporting full chests, a pouty defiant look and all the beauty of their mother. Their skin is much darker then Veronica's, but theirs is flawlessly smooth-looking.

Don pulls me along; he seems to be enjoying my embarrassment. Throughout the day, for some reason or another, every time I sit down one of the girls magically appears to join me. They seem to be aware of the influence they have over me and never shy from tormenting my male ego. It is child's play to them. Terrie is the most persistent. Not only does she sit beside me, but she sits with her thighs and legs touching me. She doesn't flinch as I obviously stare at her, and being this close, I can clearly see the impressive pair of boobs. Her scent is like her sister's and mother's, so haunting and it seems to settle between my legs. My cock hasn't had so many ups and downs since I left high school.

"Mom says you are new to Crescent City."

"That is true; I've been here nearly six months."

"Do you have a girlfriend?"

Again embarrassed, with a full blush I stammer.

"Not yet; are you volunteering?"

Now that was said in jest, to tease her and hopefully get her to back off a bit. Not that I don't like the attention, but she is only ten and we are at the company picnic. The thought of having her or her sister naked and close to me has my mind envisioning all sorts of things I shouldn't even be considering, especially after what I went through in reading "All the Usual Suspects."

"I could be; you are a lot of man. Mom is impressed with you, says you work like a horse. She likes that characteristic in a man."

Don comes along and saves me. He needs a partner in horseshoes. It has been years since I tossed one. In my younger years, I wasn't the best, but did win a number of tournaments. At the pits, he introduces me to the others as his novice partner and solicits they consider my lack of experience. What I didn't know was that Don has a friendly wager on the game and wanted to use me as a handicap, the opposition nixed that idea.

"If you don't know anything about this, we are about to get the shit kicked out of us."

"Did you bet on this?"

"Just twenty bucks, but it is the principal of the thing and bragging rights. If the blow-hard wins, I will never hear the end of it until next year. I work with him; his wife works at Empire."

"Well, maybe we will give him a run for his money."

"You mean you have tossed shoes before?"

"Yes, in my ill-spent youth."

"Holy shit! Maybe we do have a chance."

As it turns out we did win, not by much, but we did win. The old proverb is true "Close Only Counts in Horseshoes". At end of the game, Don pranced around like we won the Kentucky Derby. Throughout the match, both Terrie and Tania followed our progress, my eyes keep seeking them out in the crowd making eye contact with both many times.

I still can't believe they are only ten and twelve. It is no wonder males get into trouble looking at them, because physically they could pass for eighteen to twenty.

Later, Veronica collars me at the refreshment stand.

"You and Don hit it off; I have never seen him so happy at one of these events. Winning against Ralph made his day."

"He does seem to be enjoying it."

"You made big impression with Terrie."

"You're just imagining things. Hell, she is only ten."

"Ten going on twenty. Haven't you seen the glint in her eye as she stalks you?"

"Stalks me, you jest!"

"Watch yourself. She always gets what she want, she reminds me of me."

She is laughing. Me, I feel a cold tremble running though my body. All I can think of is Redding and "All the Usual Suspects" label. This is what I was accused of and never did. Then it dawns on me. I am not the instigator in this; Terrie is. Assuming what her mother surmises is true. That has to account for something, beside Veronica thought it was funny.

As I stand in line for a hamburger, I feel a presence and look behind me; Terrie is standing there with a mischievous smile. She uses her position to her advantage, running into me with her breasts four times, her nipples penetrating my back. They are firm and the corpuscles in my back are super-sensitive, connected directly to my imagination. Each time she uses that ploy, my cock stiffens. By the time I get served, my nerves seem frazzled. And would you believe it, in seconds she is sitting beside me, her thighs mashed against mine.

"Maybe you shouldn't sit so close, Terrie."

"Why not? We are boyfriends and girlfriends, aren't we? Remember, you asked me."

"What are you talking about?"

"Well, didn't you ask me if I would volunteer to be your girlfriend?"

"I was just making conversation."

"Well, I'm not."

Her hand finds mine and she grasps me. It is so soft and firm. She is eating her hamburger with her left and me with my right. She nearly drives me bonkers when she starts caressing my palm with her one finger, then rubs it in the 'Y' of two fingers and watching my reaction as she does it. It is a good thing she couldn't see my penis react, as it is boldly pushing where it hadn't for much too long. This ten-year-old has me feeling exhilarated and so uncomfortable at the same time. My desire to hug and kiss her has me trembling. I have the feeling everyone in the park is looking at me, but that is not the case. Everyone is enjoying the meal and the company.

"Would you like to take a walk around the lake with me?"

There is a lake in the park, surrounded by a sidewalk. We watch as the automatic lighting sensors kick in, randomly lighting the walkway. She has my hand resting on her upper thigh. Her jean-covered skin is soft and warm. Then I realize my hand is about four inches from heaven. That realization has me jerk my hand away, getting a confused look from Terrie.

"Well, do you?"

"What will your mom and dad think?"

"Nothing at all, she knows how I think."

Veronica told me that Terrie gets what she wants, I didn't believe it until now, and she continues to squeeze my hand, moving it ever so closer to her crotch. My mind is reeling with decisions. Am I putting myself in harm's way? Am I really what everybody suspected? Do I really need this? What could happen, a walk around the lake will be harmless, and the walkway is well-lighted.

"OK, I will walk with you around the lake."

Putting our trash in the proper receptacle, we both end up at the lavatories to wash the grease off our hands. Terrie looks like the cat that caught the canary, and that canary is me. We, like a number of others, are taking advantage of the cool night air to walk off the extra calories of our dinner. What I didn't realize is the walkway has a number of sidewalks that cover other sections of the park; they are lit, but are off the beaten path.

Midway through our walk, Terrie pulls me into one of these diversions. Putting up some resistance, she insists I let her lead me. This portion of the park is planted with large trees and numerous bushes. The scent of flowers is everywhere, but they don't cover the haunting scent of Terrie. We find ourselves in an area where there is no one else. She notices that as well. The next thing I know, she is pulling me towards a bushy area, where there is a park bench that just happens to overlook a small pond. Two small lights illuminate the pool; the area is inundated with fireflies. Terrie takes me off guard by wrapping her arms around my neck and kissing me. It has been a long while since I had someone kiss me like she is. The last memory was my ex in our better days.

Hugging and kissing her back, I enjoy the first kiss, the second, the third, and then I lose count. My hands run up and down her smooth back, locating her bra and the waistband of her thong. Her bum cheeks are more than a handful. Soft and pliable, I knead each cheek. Terrie senses my touch and pushes her body into mine, targeting my fully-engorged hardon. She moves her body in a circular motion concentrating on my cock.

I haven't felt this excited in years, and it is with a ten-year-old. Attempting to move my ass backwards to take the pressure off my tool is nixed by Terrie. She grabs my jeans at the hips and pulls my body into her. Shaking like a leaf, I sit on the bench, and her beside me. My face flops over into her hair. The scent of her shampoo and perfume keeps me panting. Then I realize her hand is massaging the head of my cock. I know I should protest, but my attempts to say something are muted. Finally, I find my voice and manage to say something.

"We better get back or they will be missing us."

"Let them, don't you like this?"

She is now pumping the head with very short strokes restricted by the amount of play in my jeans. Her hands on my cock have me in ecstasy; something that is long overdue, thanks to my ex.

When we do get off the bench, my legs are like Jell-O. Finally they solidify enough and we return to the picnic area. Veronica sees me hand in hand with her daughter and smiles her face has that look of 'I told you so'. Fortunately the cool air reduced my hardon to acceptable levels. Dusk is falling as we return; many are leaving the area telling each other they will be seeing them on Monday. Don, Veronica, and Tania watch us approaching; Don doesn't seem the least bit concerned. Tania has a grin and Veronica is laughing.

"Would you like a ride home? The buses have stopped running at this time of night."

"It is only three blocks."

"Get in. I would feel terrible if you got mugged leaving the picnic."

As much as I try to beg off, Veronica will not leave it alone. As we walk towards the car Terrie and Tania are at my sides each hanging onto my hands. Both are using the same technique; running their fingers down my palm, then running their fingers back and for between two my fingers. I can distinctly remember what that meant in high school among us boys; they certainly can't be using that to symbolize the same thing today, can they?

Both Veronica and Don are wrapped up in conversation, leaving the girls and me to entertain ourselves. My body is trembling with my rattled nerves; neither girl seems to be concerned. Terrie's hand finds the head of my cock, and seems to be using it like a four on the floor transmission shift: pushing to the left then to the right, back and forth, back and forth. An additional weight is sensed on my shaft, like another hand. Tania has joined her sister shifting gears.

Finally we are at my hotel; both girls give my shaft a solid squeeze before I manage to get out. Standing beside the car shields my obvious bulge from Veronica, I thank both her and Don for a very full day. Giving a small pray of thanks that something serious didn't happen, I watch the car drive away, both girls are looking back and watching me, Terrie has her finger in her mouth moving it back and forth slowly. Tania has a beautiful smile on her face. When they are out of sight, I lean on the lamp post to get my bearings, it has been one helluva day.

On Monday, every time I look at Veronica I blush, and she just laughs. It has me wondering if she knows exactly what happened. Her two daughters were the aggressors, especially Terrie. Who knows what may have happened if we were alone for any real length of time.

Over the next month, Veronica and I continue to have lunch as usual, I continue to blush, and she continues to laugh. That picnic has given her an endless means of embarrassing me. It is my own guilty feelings as she never mentions anything about that day concerning her daughters. Numerous times she did tell me how much Don would love to have me over for drinks. Each time I feign a reason why I can't.

I am now in my new apartment, and it gives me a continuous excuse of not being available. This past weekend, I am proud to say everything is in its proper place. I now have a list of items required to finish my new apartment off, one or two are marked off each payday. Today at lunch something different comes up.

"How are things at the apartment?"

"I can finally call it home. It is complete with the exceptions of some knick-knacks."

"That is good to hear, I didn't want to bring this up, but Terrie asks about you every day. I think she is smitten."

"Smitten?"

"She has a crush on you, or didn't you notice?"

Veronica is chuckling, when she does this to me, I am certain she has a sadistic streak. My reaction is the usual, an uncontrollable blush. It isn't that I haven't thought of Terrie, I do every night. There is something about her that I fight each evening, but always seem to lose. Reliving her and her sisters playing gear shift with my shaft always seems to win the mental battle.

"She was a bit exuberant."

"I bet she was; she is a chip off the old block."

Shaken, my look demands an explanation. Did Veronica badger some poor unsuspecting male? I can just imagine how devastatingly beautiful she must have looked as a preteen and a teenager. She is still a beautiful woman, and if it was her offering the overtures I would have been totally receptive. I would have no compulsion about accepting Veronica into my bed.

"I had a crush on my uncle Mac when I was eleven; he was timid and very shy. At every opportunity I pursued him. He did everything in his power to dissuade me, but I won out in the end."

As much as I want to ask her about "won out" I hold my tongue. Veronica is staring me eye to eye, just daring me to ask. There is that damn sadistic smile again. Discretion at this time is my best course so I keep my mouth shut.

"After an afternoon of swimming in our pool, I followed him into the change room and made history for me at least. He was my favorite uncle from that point forward, he still is. He comes to all our family reunions and we relive old times. He sure knows how to satisfy me."

Fortunately, our lunch period is just about over; I don't know how much more of these revelations I could stand. Is she suggesting Terrie is on a similar course with me as the prize? I hope not. Each time I think of getting close to a young lady, the images of "All the Usual Suspects" comes to mind. I went through that once and was totally innocent, I can only imagine the result if something actually happened, even with the consent of Terrie, and I was placed in a line up and grilled again. That is part of my past that I never want to relive.

"Michael, we are having a mixer at our house on Saturday night, I would like you to join us. There will be a number of people from the office, plus a number from Don's Plant. One of the families usually has a get together each month. It is BYOB affair, so bring your own poison. We will provide the mix, ice, and lunch."

Knowing both Terrie and Tania will be there my first reaction is to refuse. When she tells me Terrie and Tania made the suggestion, I emphatically refuse, and then she mentions that if that is the case, both girls plan to come to my apartment and persuade me to attend. I am between a rock and a hard place. Reluctantly, I accept. I figure that is the easiest way out. On the Saturday in question, I will simply go to a movie. She throws water on that plan, saying Don will pick me up at four in the afternoon. When we are walking back to our work stations, she hits me again.

"Michael, don't forget to bring your bathing suit. It is actually a pool party."

The first thing that comes to mind is the story she told me about her poor uncle. I can't help but wonder what she has actually planned for me. All afternoon I am on edge and it is the result of Veronica and her damn pool party.

It feels good to be in my own apartment away from the trials and tribulations of what might, what could, or what will happen if I go to that pool party. It does necessitate a visit to Wal-Mart as I will need a bathing suit and possibly a chastity belt. Does Wal-Mart sell such things?

Friday, I could have killed Veronica a hundred times. Every time we crossed paths during the day she reminded me about the party and about the bathing suit. Her haunting grin makes me think of her poor uncle Mac and her in pursuit of him. He didn't have a chance. Am I any better equipped to beat off her daughters? At lunch her teasing is consistent. I try to ignore her barbs by staring at her boobs hoping to embarrass her, but she notices my target and just puffs out her chest. She is playing with me.

It took me the longest time for sleep to overtake me that night. My mind wouldn't quit the scenarios involving Terrie and her sister. Numerous times I awoke in a sweat after dreaming of having one or both of them naked in bed with me. Finally it is morning; I look like death warmed over. A cold shower helped, it seemed to take the redness out of my eyes. There should be some way to shut down a person's mind when trying to sleep. Mine didn't do me any favors last night.

For the balance of the day, I clean the apartment attempting to take my mind off what might happen this afternoon. All day long I try to build up my resolve that nothing will happen. Unfortunately, four o'clock is rapidly approaching. At three forty-five I am standing in front of the building waiting for Don. Ten minutes later, I am riding with Don to his home. He is exuberant and happy about the party and gives me a running commentary about prior parties; they provide a platform for many to let their hair down.

Arriving at our destination, the streets are lined with cars. The house is lit up and people are milling about. Numerous lawn chairs are set out under every tree. Everyone has a drink in their hand and the laughter is flowing, it must be contagious because everyone has a happy face. Grabbing a satchel that contains my bathing suit and my bottle of Canadian Rye, Don leads me to the back of the building. Veronica spots me and come to greet me. She is wearing a white bikini. Everything I assumed about her is true. Her nipples are the size of dimes pushing against the cup of her bra top. Her love lips are large by any standard and molded beautifully in the tiniest of bikini bottoms. At first I thought this is crazy of her to display herself like this, but all the women are wearing similar costumes, except some of the older ones; they are wearing one-piece suits, their bodies, like mine, are well past their prime.

"I am glad you to see you Michael. Please enjoy yourself."

"I am sure I will."

Now that both Don and Veronica have seen me, I look around for somewhere to blend in and hopefully not be noticed. If I can work this out I will slip out to the front and casually walk away and once around a corner grab a taxi home and be out of harm's way. At least that is the plan.

Seeking my hide-away, a hand slips into mine; it is Terrie she has homed in on me. My knees go weak and my body trembles as I gaze at her. She is dressed in skin tight low-rider tailored jeans; they have embroidery up and down one leg, with a bird design next to her nether area on the opposite side. She is wearing a tube top that will never move considering the size of her breasts pushing out proudly displaying her nipples. Although not as large as her mothers, they are nothing to be ashamed of.

"I am glad you came, Mom wasn't sure."

"Well, she didn't leave me much choice."

"You mean you didn't want to come?"

"No, I don't mean it like that."

"Well, what do you mean?"

"It is kind of hard to explain."

"You are afraid of me, aren't you?"

"Don't be absurd. Why would I be afraid of a ten-year-old girl?"

"You know why and so do I. Let's go to the pool."

The pool, it is large enough to be classified as a small lake. The edge is rimmed with lounges, laughter is everywhere here. Terrie leads me to a change room attached to the house, looks up at me and enters first. This is my time to hightail it to safety, but my feet won't move. Moments later, Terrie emerges dressed in a bikini similar to her Mom's.

Nothing is left to the imagination. The bra is as full as is her bottoms. Her love lips are like her Mom's, very evident.

"You're next. I will wait for you."

Hell, I am so nervous. My feelings are out of my control. My hands are trembling as I undress. To the right, I notice Terrie's clothing with her white thong laid out on top. She must have the same sadistic streak as her mom. I do my best to ignore them, but the devil in me says feel them. Hell, I even turn my back to them, but to no avail. Unfortunately, the Devil wins out. The material is so soft. Running my fingers over the crotch picking up the dampness, again I fight the urge and lose. Taking a deep breath of the pungent odor, it went right to my cock; instant hardon, like an iron pipe.

Terrie's sexual scent is mixed with her soft perfume; it is one helluva combination for a guy who is trying to control himself. Have you ever attempted to put on a tight bathing suit with a hardon? It is not easy. Once on, the bulge, for anyone that is noticing, states the obvious. Returning the thong to the pile, it takes a few minutes of pure thoughts to reduce my problem. Now that the problem is reduced to mostly normal, I open the change room door and... Terrie is waiting to devour me.

"Humm, you look good in a bathing suit. I like your package."

Where is her mother? She shouldn't have had any kids, as least not girls, as they are spitting images of her. I can feel my cock trying to push against the fabric. Quickly heading for the pool, Terrie is on my heels. The water is cooler than the air, helping me with my problem. Finally, with my package in a subliminal state, I feel a bit better. Terrie watches me with that grin on her face. She slowly climbs down the ladder making sure she has my full attention, slowing even more as the water reaches her crotch. There is an obvious damp spot in the material which is not the result of the pool. She wanted me to see it.

Now that my body has adjusted to the temperature, I enjoy the swim. Trying to remember the last time I was at peace in the water without being tormented. It was with my step-daughter ages ago when we three went to the beach in Redding. Then a touch brings me back to the present. Terrie is beside me.

"Enjoying yourself?"

"Very much so. It has been a long time since I swam."

She moves close to me, looking down; the view of her mostly naked breasts makes me feel warm even in the cool water. When our thighs touch, things really seem to heat up. The water is up to her neck, and up to my chest. Many are in the pool, horse-playing, splashing and shouting. The touch of her hand on my trunks' waistband causes me to freeze and look about. The band loosens when she tugs the tie-up string. Looking at her, she looks so innocent.

"Don't move, just talk to me. You will enjoy this."

"What are you doing? Someone will notice."

"Notice what? Look around you; everybody is enjoying themselves, why shouldn't I?"

She is getting more aggressive as her hand slips down my trunks and grabs my cock. The heat of her fingers on me feels fantastic. She grasps me in such a way that she can slowly pump. I can feel my foreskin moving back and forth. She then moves in front of me, moving close enough so she can rub my cock head against her bare stomach. The contact with her skin nearly has me lose it.

"You shouldn't be so tall. Then I could rub it somewhere else. You could scrunch your body lower."

The look on her face tells me she is enjoying this much more than I am. Unable to speak, my head is shaking 'NO'. Finally she releases me, tucks my cock back into my trunks and stands beside me again.

"You can tie the string."

After managing to do that chore, I can only hope the cool water will do its deed. Terrie grabs my arm and brings her feet to the surface and starts kicking which makes big splashes. As I am wondering what she was up to, she grabs my hand and places it on her left breast. The splashing is just a diversion for anyone glancing our way. Her breast is soft and her nipple is so hard. If I had her nerve I would slip it under the cup of her bikini. She then pushes back against me and swims away leaving me wondering what is next. With a sigh of relief, my body soon comes back under my control. I have to get out of here before something disastrous happens.

Terrie is on the other side of the pool talking to Tania; both of them are looking at me. I have no idea what are saying to each other, but I have a sinking feeling it is nothing good. Heading for the ladder, and looking back at them, they haven't moved. Moving quickly, I headed for the change house. Once inside, my breathing returns to normal. My plan is to change and go through with plan A. Terrie's thong is still in the same place as I left it. Fighting the urge to take another whiff, as I know what will happen, I start to change.

Removing my trunks with a hardon is a pain in the ass, as the trunks keep getting caught on the hardon. All I can think of is getting changed and getting out of harm's way. Perhaps I can leave. Standing naked and about to grab my shorts, I hear a click behind me. Standing in the doorway that connected the change room to the house is Terrie. She is naked. Not being a monk, my eyes sweep over her lush body. Her love lips are framed with beautiful tight dark brown curly hairs. Her lush breasts are topped with suckable nipples beckoning me.

"What do you think you are doing, Terrie? What if someone should catch you like that in front of me."

"No one will. Tania is at the door standing guard like she is waiting to get changed so she is next in line."

"I had better get dressed."

"No, you don't. Grab your bag and clothing and come with me."

Doing as I am told, a lamb being led to the slaughter would be no different, I follow her into the house, she knocks on the poolside door twice and closes the house-side door.

"That is to let Tania know we are clear. Follow me."

From the back, her body and skin is flawless. Her coloring is beautiful. Her legs are long for her body, well toned and muscled. Her buttocks are full with a long crack between the cheeks. I am petrified. What would happen if Don or Veronica found us? Again the memories of "All the Usual Suspects" came to mind. I am paranoid of this. Finally, she stops at a doorway and beckons me to enter. It is obviously one of the girl's bedrooms. When she closes the door, I hear an audible click. She has locked it.

Then she is in my arms, our bare skins mashes into each other. Her arms slip around my neck pulling me down to her lips. Kissing, her body leaves the floor when I straighten up. My hands are cupping her bum to hold in her place. My cock is between her legs. Sitting back, we end up on the bed. It has been a long time since I have had a willing body so close to me, and the first time anyone this young. My mind is screaming to quit, but my body is saying piss on it, enjoy what is offered.

When she sticks her tongue in my mouth, I am lost. She tastes of toothpaste and mouthwash. Then, as we are side by side on the bed, she takes my hand and places it at the doorway to heaven. Her pubic hair is damp from the flow of virginal juices seeping from the well of eternal love. My fingers gently feel the area and locate her very sensitive clitoris, massive minor labium protruding from her love lips. Everything is soaked with her juice. Penetrating her pussy with my middle finger, I find no resistance. Unwrapping myself from her arms I sit up and gaze upon her body. Her brown eyes are glossy, her body tense with anticipation. My first target is her nipples.

First one then the other, I suck. Terrie squirms in passion. I suck hoping to taste something, but of course I am disappointed. My puritan side is still yelling at me, "Asshole, you are making love to a preteen. Remember the consequences?" My darker side reminds me that, "She is offering this banquet, so enjoy."

Using butterfly kisses, I find her belly button, deep and very sensitive. She really squirms as my tongue lavishes itself in the opening. Then my chin encounters pubic hair. I am so close to heaven. Finally, I am at the pinnacle of the musty fragrance that has haunted me since Terrie lay on her back. The first taste only whets my appetite.

Kissing her love lips, then sucking one side of her labia then the other, provides a constant flow of her precious love juice. Using my tongue, I am able to enter her beautiful pink opening nearly an inch. The piece de resistance is her clitoris, standing out nearly a half inch, is a pink beauty. Latching my lips on it and sucking brings her to a continual stream of climaxes. She digs in her heels and raises her body, forcing her pussy against my mouth and tongue. This goes on for nearly an hour. Finally she pushes me away from heaven.

She rearranges her body, legs spread and knees up, and raises her arms inviting me to mount her. My cock has been aching since this started. Moving between her legs, she grabs me and guides my shaft to her welcoming center. She is very tight; I can feel the pressure of her opening on me. In seconds I am completely immersed in her velvet opening. With the pressure on my shaft, it is hard to fight the urge. I want to savor this moment, have it burnt into my mind. With my cock buried as deep as possible, I stop and enjoy.

"You are the first, Michael; I lost my cherry riding a horse last year when he bucked me."

Although that isn't important at this time, it gives me a good feeling to know. The urge to ejaculate continues to build even though I am not moving. Just the heat of her channel is affecting me.

"I am going to cum."

Terrie's arms encircle me and she hangs on for dear life, and then it happens. String after string of hot cream is pumped deep into her. It is a feeling that has been nearly three years in coming. On my side, hugging her closely, we enjoy the afterglow of sex. Terrie is still breathing erratically and toying with one of my nipples.

"I feel great and guilty at the same time."

"Why? I wanted it as much as you did."

"That doesn't make it right. Although you don't look it, you are still a preteen in the eyes of the law and I am a pervert for taking advantage of you."

"That is a joke, you taking advantage of me. If it wasn't for me, you still would be roaming around the grounds and I would still be a virgin."

"Maybe that would have been a good thing."

"Well, it is too late now and I am glad."

As the glow of sex disappears my feeling of guilt starts to return. Terrie senses something may be slightly amiss and suggests we get dressed and rejoin the festivities. After dressing in our swimming togs, she takes my bag and disappears then returns empty-handed.

"I put your bag in the change room."

She grabs my hand and leads me to a side door; we approach the pool area from the back of the yard rather than the house. No one seems to have missed us, at least until Veronica spots us. She waves at me, and then gives Terrie a questioning look to which Terrie gives her thumbs up sign. Here I am, feeling guilty and it looks like I have been set up by both mother and daughter. Terrie grabs my hand and leads me in another direction. Now I am thinking we played out Veronica's scenario with her uncle, a repeat of a proven method. I was still looking at Veronica's smile and her 'I told you so' looks. Then I realize we are standing beside Tania. I don't even remember moving.

"You're next, Tania. It was super."

"Next?"

"Yes, she won the flip for you. Now it is my turn, I hope you didn't tire yourself out with Terrie, I can't wait."

With that she grabs my hand and leads back from whence we came.