" I don't do anything to push that," I said defensively. "If you want, I could sit down with Nolan, tell him the truth. Tell him it's about 60-40 agai...nst that I'll even be with the club a year from now. Six months from now, I could be selling ceiling fans down at Lowe's." It's not the baseball-hero image that worries me," Maureen said. "It's fear that Nolan will get the idea that you're looking to be his new daddy." Supposing I am? Supposing I'd like to be his new daddy? No disrespect for his. After a few more rounds tears flow freely down my face and I realize I’m ready to break my promise for the prospect of relief. Opening my mouth to speak a sob tears from my lips; unable to stop I can only silently pray that it will end soon. An eternity later as quickly as it began my punishment is over; the rain of blows transformed into a gentle back rub. When my sobs have quieted you speak again, “You did very well, baby girl. I know that was difficult for you to endure. You’re going to be. I was a bit startled when Marie came walking up. She held her hand out and I took it. She led me around to the other side of the restaurant and there were many of Tamara's and my family gathered there.I saw Tracy standing next to Lisa. Tracy had on a very beautiful, but conservative dress, as did Lisa. They both smiled at me when I walked by.My sister was there and she came up and gave me a hug. Sally and Sassy were next, along with my mother. Harry was in his tux and he greeted me with a bear. Jim extended the bottle, topping off Jeannies glass. Thanks baby, she said. CJ nearly choked on her mouth full of wine. When she got her breath back she said, Im sorry. But that is my nickname at work. I guess because Im so small? Jeannie smiled at her and said, No reason to be sorry? The name fits you baby. Do you mind if I call you baby? Not at all, Id like that. she answered. Jeannie felt a little more at ease with her being there. They sat around the table, drinking and talking. Jim got up.