Franzi’s studies were improving with no special attention or sympathy votes. Paula got the mail and saw a flyer for the Pride festival next week. She talked to Franzi about them attending together. Paula wasn’t sure about going at all because she didn’t want any of her colleagues to give her a hard time about who she was with. But she also didn’t want to be defined as a lesbian when all she was was a woman in love with another woman.

A year and so ago, the furthest thing from Paula’s mind was being with another woman. Now she was being asked to attend Pride with Franzi.

Paula asked, ‘What the hell?’

Franzi asked, ‘Really?’

Paula answered, ‘Really. I’ll put in for the day off and we’ll spend it together.’

Franzi complied, ‘Okay. Let’s go.’

Paula said, ‘Yeah.’

The next day at work, Paula asked the Shift Captain for the day off but she didn’t say what for. She was 2 days before the request deadline. The shift change was approved and signed by Paula and another officer. She got Monday off and there were no questions.

Paula said, ‘Thank you, sir.’

Paula’s supervisor was pleased with how she was performing her duties. Her attendance was prompt and her attitude was strong; something that was demanded of all her colleagues.

Willis asked, ‘Miss Rapf. Are you satisfied with your station here?’

Paula answered, ‘A little bit. It’s nice to be back around familiar faces and surroundings.’

Willis asked, ‘So you have no disappointments; no doubts?’

Paula said, ‘Not at the moment, sir. Why?’

Willis said, ‘Miss Rapf, I’ve heard a great many things about you. Your colleagues have come to respect you.’

Paula said, ‘Thank you, sir. I’d like to think I’ve earned their respect.’

Willis said, ‘It appears as though you have.’ After stamping Paula’s file "Satisfactory". Willis said, ‘Dismissed.’ Paula stood at attention and turned around properly. For the time being, Paula’s life was just simple working and taking care of Franzi.

Franzi got the mail for the flatshare. She had to go by John and Philip’s place to get Paula’s mail. She went when they weren’t there because she was sure they hated her. When Franzi got back to the flatshare, she went right to a package addressed to her. Inside the wrapping was a letter written by her uncle, Thomas. Whatever he had to say was very powerful. Paula knocked at the door and made Franzi jump out of her skin.