Again, looking back, I see that Xena was not only trying to attract me into her web but also shaping Mandy’s attitude about men and marriage. Indeed..., Mandy’s attitude towards me began to change noticeably and it wasn’t long before I became aware of her starting to be more aggressive and dominating, and more openly flirtatious with others. All of a sudden, she didn’t seem to care as much about modesty any more, much like Xena, and seemed to enjoy exhibition. I often noticed she didn’t bother to. The state police orderedall the roads closed and nothing moved within sight of my aunt's ruralhome.When night arrived we all got ready for bed, I assuming that I would beon the couch or a pallet in the floor. Each of my cousins had their ownroom; the older male cousin had a double bed and my female cousin asingle. My aunt and uncle had a king-size bed in their room. When myaunt started explaining the sleeping arrangements, my heart almostclimbed into my throat.My younger brother was to sleep. "Happy Christmas Jill, I have a present for you." And I have presents for you, too," I said, voice cracking from a desire that I realised was at as much for Margaret, her body, and what I wanted to do to her, as it was for what I knew she would do to me. This thing had become entirely mutual, at last.We exchanged gifts."I'll go first," said Margaret, already tearing at the wrapping paper.The shirts brought a warm murmur of approval; the book achieved one of her special smiles, and a kiss. I was. But I was dancing inside. I thought it is my day. And I wanted to check my luck in getting this beauty into the bed with me. Then I intentionally got up from the couch and went to the kitchen asking for some water. And she asked me to take it from the fridge. I did and drank.Then I asked whether I can help her. She said, “If you don’t have any problem, you can chop the onion and tomatoes?” Then I took the knife and started cutting them. All of a sudden I cut my finger my mistake. It started.