Her hand gently caresses my breast as I feel her other hand run along my inner thigh. I feel her lips slowly make their way down my torso. Passing my navel, she momentarily pauses, torturing me with her lips. She removes her hand from my thigh and moves it up to caress my pulsating center. Her fingers enter me as she raises her head. Oh T, I say, just as Candace looks at me

I sit up in bed, scolding myself once again for having the dream. I need to call Candace today. We need to settle things. I get out of bed and dial her number.

Hello?

Candace, its Bette.

Hi, she replies, sounding disappointed.

We need to talk. I cant get through another day without putting this to rest.

I understand, she begins. Im at the hospital with Yolanda right nowshes being released this morning, but I can meet you after I take her home.

What time, I ask, wanting to get this done as soon as possible.

How bout noon?

Noon is good, but where do you want to meet?

You pick a place, she tells me.

Theres a park near my house. Runyan Park.

I know the place. Ill see you there at noon.

Okay, Ill see you there. I hang up without actually saying goodbye.

Remembering Shane in the living room, I walk out of the bedroom toward where shes sleeping. I round the corner and notice the empty couch. Maybe shes getting something to eat. I turn to the kitchen expecting to see her at the table with a coffee in her hand. Shes not there. She must have left already. Ill call her later to make sure shes alright. Right now, I have to figure out what Im going to say to Candace. Ill call Father Andyhe always seems to get my mind working.

I pick up the phone and dial the number he gave me.

Saint James Rectory, a womans voice rings in my ear.

Uh, hi. Is Father Andy available, I ask, a little fearful.

Who may I ask is calling? I tell her my name before she asks me to hold.