I realised it was nerves, though, and I distracted her by telling her about the car’s technical specs and chattering about how old it was, how often... it needed oil changes and so on. She got focused enough on her task and my words that she forgot all about her nerves and clumsiness, and suddenly she turned into a quick learner. Of course she was still a novice, but a promising one. As I went quiet she realised what was happening and noticed she was having fun and doing well. I could see the joy. Ifixed and served her a nice supper which she ate alone. After she finished eating, she went back toher reading while I cleaned up. She watched a little television and then went to bed early. As sheleft for her bedroom, she told me, " You'd better set the alarm so you will have breakfast readybefore I leave for work." I assured her that it would be ready and went to my room. I set the alarmclock to go off earlier than usual, so I would have time to make myself presentable before she. Jerry appeared to be away on a sales trip and I was anticipating a full night of rollicking fun. I parked my car in our driveway behind Claire’s Toyota and unlocked the front door. I half expected to see Claire and Sharon in bed, naked and full of passion, but the house was eerily silent. I announced my arrival but there was no reply. I looked in the bedroom and it was empty and the bed was not slept in. I looked out at the pool but there was nobody there either. Disappointed at not finding. Ann had the dinner preparation sufficiently under control that she was able to join in the discussions almost all of the time. Dinner was a great success. Fil and Mary ended up sitting side by side. They really like each other. Ann, Barbara, Cindy, Joyce and I cleaned up afterwards. It did not take us long although it would be three loads through the dishwasher. The wheeled carts were a godsend. We went back to the living room sofa. That night I shared a bed with Barbara. We had a strong.