When I returned to the table, Paula and Michelle were whispering quietly to each other, and when they noticed me, they stopped and looked at me with t...winkles in their eyes. After a few minutes, I collected the check and offered to share a cab with them on their way home."Actually, Vince," said Paula, "we thought we might go to Michelle's hotel for a nightcap. Will you join us?" I agreed and hailed a taxi to take us the short trip to Michelle's hotel. We rode the elevator up, the ladies. I would listen attentively, as if I existed for no higher purpose than to give them what the want -- to make them happy. Of course I would listen, for I would be Santa -- the magic man who can make your dreams come true. Pour your heart out to me, put your trust and faith in me, and all that you want can be yours. You exist for no higher purpose than to be overwhelmed by my generosity. You spend most of your nights shut away from the world. You keep yourself safe in your home behind your. As we ended our journey in Manila the attendant gave us each a small pair of wings that seemed more like an angel or cherub than typical flight feathers, on the back was inscribed “Mile High Club, Pacific Chapter 1,” I laughed as I read it not aware there was really such a club, she offered me a piece of paper and said, “Sign up and we can chat,” with a smile. Carrie was offered the link as well. We made our way to customs and got separated in the throng of folks.We had already taken note that. I had to attend a three day conference in Monterey. I say 'had to' attend as if it were an onerous chore. Actually, I had worked my conference schedule to make sure I got this one on the list. I asked Wendy if she wanted to go. When she found out I was staying at the Hotel Pacific, a ritzy resort, she accepted with alacrity.It was the last night of the conference and we had been wined and dined by the conference sponsors and then wined some more. By the time we made it back to the room it was.