The Northern Lights seemed a million miles from where she thought she’d be tonight, a million miles from Jean Paul, and even further from the cemete...ry where dear, vulnerable Eddie lay cold in an early grave, and Bobby, who somehow never forgave her for never coming back. She felt empty, hollowed out, alone. As she looked at the barren tundra desert stretching outward toward infinity, she couldn’t help but wonder…where did it all go wrong? When had her world become such an unbearable place in. She asked me if I knew who was calling. I said that I recognized her voice right off. Just hearing her on the phone was making me hard. She mentioned that I had said to call if she ever wanted to get together. She said she had thought of me often over the last month since the events at the store. She asked if I was able to meet her after work at her apartment. I told her yes of course. I too thought of her often since then and, would be glad to meet. When the time came I wore the same slacks. ’ Francine rubbed some more and said ‘Wow. Great answer. And why will it cost less to run than my neighbor’s car?’ ‘Rare earth alloys in the batteries recharge faster and discharge slower. The car is manufactured to the highest standard of fit and finish eliminating potential corrosion spots and airfoils. The whole car weighs less due to carbon fiber and other lightweight materials. The aerodynamics alone will add mileage by reducing air friction. And we also…’ Jeffery droned on and Francine. Then it was as if she collected herself."Allan," she said, "you can't do this. You bought the house; it's yours. I can't let you just leave it for some poky flat." It's what I want, and what you need, Ann, " I replied. "The children need you. You have the chance to be all together again in the house you all love. Please do this for them. I'm sure you'll be happier here as well, rather than in some rented house. And by the way, the flat is far from poky!"She was silent for a long moment. Then.