We called him, "Ebony Tom." His teeth shown like ivory in his shining, black face and his yellowish eyes seemed to reflect evil when he was angered, w...hich was most of the time. We ate one meal a day and got water at the end of each trip. Moving our bowels was done in the river either early morning or after the last trip near sunset, but we usually urinated where we sat and endured the stink. We slept, slumped on our bench and leaning back against the hull, under a scrap of canvas if we were. I spoon up behind him and wiggle into close contact. My arm has to go over him.His breathing changes, his hand takes mine, holds it into his chest, securing me. My nose is at the nape of his neck. I breathe deeply and secure, I drift off in sweet slumber again.The next time I woke up, it was from the motion of him turning over to kiss me."Good morning, wild child," he said."Good morning, man who makes me wild." I need to clear my head. He makes me crazy. I'm trying to think of any other. There was a sad look almost pleading in his eyes and I though well if he wants to take me out he wouldn't be asking me for help. I quickly thought about it and said sure, great he responded follow me. So I got into the car and followed he towards our local Tim Horton's but instead of going into the parking lot he went into Drive Through, so I thought okay I will play along I entered as well and ordered my usual Hot Chocolate when I exited he was waiting across the street for me in his car. As. .myself...clear?" I said all that as Igave him and his mother the 'Demmit Stare' while pulsing my shield toemphasize the last five words."Come along, Joshua! We've taken up too much of the Empress' timealready," His mom whispered in wide-eyed, fright as I held out theenvelope, which she accepted with down-turned eyes. "My most humblethanks, your Majesty."The woman took a firm hold on her son and quickly guided him away fromus.'Not what I would've done, but impressive nonetheless, Alexandra.'.