Zen and Tonic

By Kris Howard

Prologue

Liza stirred and looked back over her shoulder. Gazing at Kai, she purred, “My God, you are the master of what you just did.” Rolling onto her back, she pulled Kai’s body onto hers.

Kai traced a rough finger along Liza’s contours, silky and moist, and craved more. The problem was time. Liza’s husband expected her home in an hour. Kai said gruffly, “Hon? Much as I hate to remind you, we’re running out of time.”

Liza lifted her head and looked at the clock. Releasing her grip, she rolled her eyes. “All right. You’re right. Let me up.”

Kai slid off and sat, grinning at Liza’s lovely bottom as she walked away. Leaning against the headboard, eyes closed, Kai heard Liza humming in the shower, and smiled.

* * * *

Heels clicking on hardwood, Liza strode to the foot of the bed, makeup perfect and coat in hand.

Throwing her long legs out of bed, Kai stood, hugged Liza hard, and kissed her forehead. “Okay, it’s back to the world with you now.”

Kai listened as Liza opened the door and departed, and then fell onto the bed and stared at the ceiling.

Thinking back over the years, Kai remembered how Liza had christened her Kai more than twenty years ago.

* * * *

Shortly after they met, Kaitlin and Liza shared a week in Hawaii. Their fourth-floor room at the Sheraton Waikiki presented a panoramic view of an ocean the color of glacier runoff. Sheer fabric framed an open doorway and billowed in the breeze, revealing fleeting views of a large lanai. Their sighs mingled with the music of the surf. They made love languidly, breathing in the heady fragrance of Hawaii’s verdant air.

Hours later, tired and chafed, they wandered through Waikiki holding hands. People of every imaginable flavor strolled the streets. Pierced and purple-haired, hooking and homeless, gothic and grungy, bright-eyed teens bearing new tattoos, elderly couples wearing matching aloha prints—nobody noticed, much less criticized, lesbian lovers.

Kaitlin and Liza walked through the Kai Aloha Hotel, up Kai Ulani Avenue, and past a sign pointing to Hawaii Kai. They ventured into the International Marketplace and encountered a Japanese woman offering puka shell necklaces at a discount. In rapid-fire local pidgin the shopkeeper said, “You like buy? Plenty cheap. Only five dollah, yeah?”

Liza took the proffered necklaces and cradled them like rosary beads. After a moment she looked at the woman and asked, “What does k-a-i mean?”

“K. A. I.? What you mean K. A. I.?”

Liza smiled politely. “The word is in the names of streets and towns here. I’m just wondering what it means.”

“Ahhhh. Kai.” The woman leaned forward. “My son’s name. Rhyme like sky.” She pressed her hands together. “Mean triumph in Japan, ocean in Hawaii.”

“Kai,” breathed Liza as she reached for another necklace.

“Thank you.” She handed the necklaces back. “I’ll take five. Red, blue, green, pink, and purple.”

That night Liza whispered, “Kai. My beautiful Kai.

Triumphant and tempestuous like the ocean.” Kai felt that Liza had caressed the core of her being.

* * * *

Alone now, lying on her bed with her eyes wide open, a tear rolled down Kai’s face and into her ear.

Chapter 1

After leaving Kai’s house, Liza’s driver moved swiftly and they arrived only a few minutes late. As the car pulled up to the louvered gate of her home, Liza opened her window and stared unblinking into an iris scanner. The gate slid up, and they rolled slowly down a narrow lane.

Liza entered the house and smelled freshly baked bread.

“Good evening,” said a stout gray-haired woman.

“Hello, Mercedes.” Liza walked toward the hallway. “Is Mr. Galston home?”

“Yes. I believe he is in the East Room.”

Liza hung her coat, and walked around the corner to greet her husband. After cursorily kissing his mouth she said, “Hello, Henry. How was your day?”

Henry stood and said, “Better than yours I imagine. Joe and Peter and I played a round of golf and then hung out at the club all afternoon.”

“Well good, I’m glad you enjoyed yourself then. I’m going upstairs to change.”

“Don’t change too much,” Henry called out as she left.

Liza slipped off her shoes and carried them upstairs.

Placing the shoes in her closet, she removed her dress and tossed it into the laundry chute. She pulled on tan slacks and a white sweater, sat at the vanity table, and stared at her pale reflection. At forty-two, she could pass for thirty-five. Suddenly she stood and hurried downstairs.

Liza and Henry sat at each end of a large formal dining table, in silence. Mercedes delivered a pot roast, steamed vegetables, and warm bread. After pouring merlot into wine glasses she returned to the kitchen.

Liza ate little. Placing her napkin on the table, she leaned back and watched Henry eat. Fifteen years her senior, he had a full head of hair that he dyed black on the first Saturday of each month. He did the job himself so that no one, not even his hairstylist, would know.

Several years ago Liza had rushed into Henry’s bathroom looking for a bandage and found him with goo in his hair and a sheepish look on his face. She grabbed bandages from the medicine cabinet, quickly displayed her cut finger, and hurried out. She hoped that he didn’t know that she knew.

Liza remembered the first time she saw Henry. She had been twenty-four years old and interviewing for a job as his aide.

She chose Henry for his political connectedness, because he served as senator for New York where she planned to begin her political career, and because his wife of nineteen years had recently died.

* * * *

“Senator Galston will see you now.”

Liza strode into the senator’s office.

Democratic senator Henry Galston stood, reached across the desk, and shook Liza’s hand. He gestured toward a chair and grinned, eyes framed by laugh lines. “Please. Have a seat.” He sat, leaned back, and gazed at her.

Liza blinked back at him. Uh-oh, she thought. He looks like he’s going to make a pass at me already. If he does it before I have the job, I’ll have to rethink whether to accept.

“Why would you like to work for me, Ms. Sterling?” asked the senator.

Liza flashed her brightest smile. “Because I’ve read all about you and earnestly believe in everything you stand for.”

Senator Galston raised an eyebrow. “Everything?”

Liza blushed. “Everything I’ve read, yes sir.”

“Oh, don’t call me sir. Please call me Henry. And may I call you Liza?”

She nodded.

“How is your father?”

“He’s well.” Liza smiled. “Thank you for seeing me on his recommendation.”

“You’re being seen on the strength of your resume, Liza.

Your father’s phone call was icing on the cake, and this interview seals the deal. May I offer you a job?”

* * * *

Henry rose from the dinner table, jolting Liza out of her reverie. She followed him back to the East Room and sat on a sofa. She picked up a remote, and turned on a wall-mounted television.

Henry stood in the doorway. “Liza, I’m heading off. Have a good night.”

Liza muted the television and called over her shoulder,

“You too, Henry.” She listened as he walked heavily up the stairs and closed the door to his room. Exhaling, she un-muted the television and relaxed into the sofa.

* * * *

An hour later, Liza climbed the stairs, stripped in her room, and dropped into bed. Pulling the sheets around her, she lay alone in the darkness and recalled her first night with Henry.

He hadn’t waited a week before making a pass at her, but she held him off until a respectable amount of time had passed.

* * * *

After working for him for three months, Liza went with Henry to a seminar in Los Angeles. She had arranged for adjoining rooms with a shared door between them.

Liza unpacked, shaved in the shower, and slid on a black lace teddy with matching thong. She slipped into a slinky white robe and looked into the mirror above the dresser. Turning, she confirmed that the robe seductively shrouded her body and revealed a hint of the teddy. She walked lightly to the doorway between her room and the senator’s. Unlocking and opening her side of the double door, she knocked on his side. No answer.

She knocked again, this time more forcefully.

The door opened and Henry, wearing a black silk robe, smiled quizzically. “I couldn’t figure out where the knocking was coming from.” Looking her up and down, he said, “My God! You look…” He gulped. “Beautiful.”

“I just want you to know how much I enjoy working for you, and to give you this.” Liza stood on tiptoe and planted a kiss on Henry’s chin. She stepped back and smiled. “Well, good-night.”

“Wait a minute.” Henry cleared his throat. “How about a nightcap?”

Liza turned. “I guess so. All right.”

With his hand touching her back, Henry ushered Liza to his room’s sitting area and gestured toward a chair. She sat, crossed her bare ankles, and wiggled pink-polished toes. Henry sat facing her and lifted a bottle of wine from a bucket of ice.

“Join me in a glass of chardonnay?” When she nodded, he poured generous portions into two long-stemmed glasses.

Liza widened her eyes. “So how do you happen to have a spare glass?”

Henry reddened and coughed. “Um. Well, a guy can hope, can’t he?”

Liza smiled.

Shifting in his seat Henry said, “So, tell me about yourself, Liza. What do you do for fun?”

Liza tipped her glass at Henry, took a sip, and pursed her lips. “Well, this is pretty fun.” Gazing at him over the rim of her glass she said, “A girl can hope, too, you know.”

Henry swallowed and placed his glass on the table.

“Aren’t you cold with those pretty bare feet? Come on over here and I’ll warm you up.” He spread his arms.

Setting her glass next to his, Liza stood, turned, and sat carefully on Henry’s lap. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close, then turned her to the side, draping her legs over the arm of the chair. Relaxing, Liza lay back and gazed up into Henry’s eyes. Holding her close, he leaned down and kissed her parted lips.

Liza felt her body responding. Henry kissed her mouth, her chin, her neck. His lips explored the top of one breast and then the other, until Liza lay panting in his arms. Nuzzling beneath her teddy, his lips grazed a nipple, and she gasped. He slowly sucked it into his mouth, and then turned to the other.

Henry raised his head and looked into Liza’s eyes. “Come here,” he said gruffly. “I want those gorgeous legs wrapped around me.” He slid his hands under her bottom and turned her so that she straddled him. He pushed off her robe and pulled the black lace up over flushed breasts.

Liza lifted her arms and let Henry pull off the teddy. She opened his robe and snuggled her breasts into his chest. With only her thong and his robe between them, she moved slowly against his hardness.

Henry groaned. Sliding his arms beneath Liza, he stood and carried her to the bed. He laid her down gently, slipped out of his robe, and pulled off her thong.

Liza looked up at her boss’s graying chest hair and pulsating penis. She closed her eyes and willed herself back into the sheer physicality of sex.

Henry scooted onto the bed next to Liza and pulled her toward him, kissing and tonguing and sucking her lips, her face, her neck, her breasts. He rolled her onto her back and suspended himself above her. Liza parted her legs and lifted up to meet him.

Kissing Liza’s mouth, Henry lowered himself into her.

When he penetrated her, she moaned and arched her back.

Pausing, Henry asked, “Did I hurt you?”

“No, no. No.” Liza wrapped her legs around him and pulled him deep inside. They moved together, and arrived at mutual satisfaction.

That night Henry asked Liza to marry him, and she accepted.

* * * *

Nearly twenty years later, Liza and Henry hadn’t had any children and had long ago lost interest in the sex that brought them together.

Alone in her bed, Liza recalled a black-tie event that she and Henry recently attended. As dashing then as he’d ever been, Henry also remained unflappably ingratiating and supportive.

Liza felt a fond rush of respect, and finally fell asleep.

* * * *

Early the next morning, sunshine shafted onto Liza’s eyelids. “Damn,” she murmured, “forgot to close the blinds.” She threw off the covers, stood, and stretched. Dressing for work, she put on a gray suit, black silk blouse, and sensible pumps.

She walked downstairs, along a colonnade, past a rose garden, and through a back entrance into the West Wing.

As Liza entered the Oval Office, Bryce called, “Good morning, President Sterling. Would you like coffee?”

“Please.” Liza sat behind her desk in a high-backed swivel chair upholstered in white loromine, a textile more comfortable and durable than obsolete leather. She glanced up at a framed portrait of past president Barack Obama, and she smiled. She enjoyed much more freedom than he had.

An SSS chip inserted below Liza’s scapula monitored her location and a myriad of vital signs, including her zophatomine level.

* * * *

Since the invention of the Secret Service Security tracking and monitoring chip, the presidency had become far less confining than it had been during Obama’s presidency. The Secret Service itself now comprised not only loyal bodyguards but also experts who ensured that the computerized system operated flawlessly.

Discovered five years before Liza’s presidency, zophatomine indicated bodily threat far more accurately than adrenalin. The adrenal gland secretes when a body is under any kind of stress—physical, emotional, sexual, whatever.

Zophatomine accumulates only in a body that is physically threatened. And it does so even when someone is asleep or otherwise unaware that trouble is brewing.

If Liza’s zophatomine level signaled threat, her SSS chip would trigger the immediate deployment of additional Secret Service forces.

Scientists had yet to understand how the physical body perceived threat in advance. Research had ruled out the five known senses, and researchers now focused on the possibility of a sixth. Like so many recent findings, the discovery of zophatomine baffled the scientific community and engendered previously impossible cooperation and co-research between scientists and experts in paranormal phenomena.

Chapter 2

Kai awoke midmorning in darkness, grateful that Jay installed blackout shades in both their bedrooms, allowing them to sleep whenever they could. She rolled onto her back and raked her fingers through her hair. Staring at the ceiling, she remembered lying in the same position last night after Liza left.

Liza had been president of the United States for two years, and she was good at it. She had already pulled the country out of an economic recession, and had an excellent approval rating.

The ceiling creaked, signaling that Jay was awake and moving about in her room upstairs. After eleven years of marriage, Kai and Jay shared a comfortable routine that included unconditional affection and relentless respect. Two years into the marriage, Jay had developed endometriosis that progressively worsened and made sex increasingly uncomfortable for her.

Jay often found it difficult to get comfortable and fall asleep, and Kai began sleeping in the downstairs bedroom to allow Jay more complete rest. Over time, Kai became accustomed to the alternative sleeping arrangements, and gradually moved her clothing and toiletries downstairs. Life without sex seemed a minor hardship, especially in light of Kai’s otherwise amicable relationship with Jay.

Before last year—before her affair with Liza began—Kai considered herself asexual, despite the occasional encounter with a handheld mechanical device. Abstinence equaled fidelity, and Kai felt no sexual desire for Jay or anyone else.

Liza changed all that. Her love fed Kai’s soul beyond satiation, until it seemed to burst within her, leaving Kai confused and disoriented. Liza kissed Kai’s wounds, healed them, and restored Kai’s soul. Kai hadn’t felt so on fire, so alive, since law school. She was addicted, crazy in love, and feared that it showed.

Hearing movement in the kitchen and smelling coffee, Kai sat up, and a moment later Bogart jumped onto the bed. “Why were you under the bed, little one? I missed you.” After scratching the mutt’s head and rubbing his ears, she threw on jeans and a shirt, and padded to the kitchen. “Good morning.”

Jay turned and gave Kai a quick kiss. “Good morning! Did you and Bogart sleep well?” She bent down and patted the dog’s brown head.

Kai pulled cereal and bowls from cupboards. “Yup. How about you and Tabitha?”

“Fine until she hacked up a hairball.”

“Ew.” Kai made a face.

“That was about an hour ago.” Jay carried two mugs of coffee to the table and sat. “Phone rang right afterward.”

Kai brought milk and spoons, and sat across from her.

“What did the caller want?”

Jay sipped coffee and held her mug with both hands. “It was the Adams Morgan clinic. Eighteen-year-old with a botched abortion. I’m heading there after breakfast.”

Kai frowned. “Are you up to driving? May I take you?”

“I’m fine.” Jay smiled. “But I’d welcome your company.”

She cocked her head and blinked. “Actually, you could help. The teenager aborted the baby because it was a product of rape.

Instead of going to a reputable abortion doctor, she tried to do it herself. Didn’t want anyone to know. Which probably means she knows her attacker. You can talk her into prosecuting and send the scumbag rapist to jail.”

After breakfast, Jay put the dishes in the dishwasher while Tabitha purred and slinked back and forth between her feet.

After feeding the dog and cat, the couple bundled up and climbed into Kai’s Hummer HEV. They rode along rain-washed streets, companionably quiet.

As she drove, Kai felt Jay’s eyes on her. She glanced sideways. “Something in my teeth?”

Jay laughed. “Just watching my gorgeous wife. I swear you’re more beautiful every year. Today you’re virtually glowing.”

Kai coughed. “Thank you, ma’am. I do my best.” She glanced again at Jay and smiled. “Have to keep up with you.”

Jay had ample reason to suspect Kai of infidelity, but hadn’t questioned her. After more than a year as Liza’s girl toy, Kai suspected that Jay didn’t want to know about it, wasn’t troubled by it, or both.

Kai remembered when she first laid eyes on Liza at age twenty-one. It had been late August at their law school orientation, when Kai was still Kaitlin.

Chapter 3

A flash of color caught Kaitlin’s eye, and she inhaled sharply. On the far side of the room stood a beautiful dark-haired woman wearing a canary yellow skirt and a slinky black blouse.

* * * *

Kaitlin had arrived late because her Jeep died in Medford and it took seven hours to tow and repair it. She left Paradise, California, at five-thirty that morning, expecting to be at Bellingham School of Law in Graceville, Oregon, by noon.

Instead she arrived after dark, flustered and weary.

She drove onto campus and directly to Piedmont Hall, signed in at the front desk, received a key and a list of dormitory rules, and hauled her belongings to her second-floor room. She stacked luggage and boxes on the floor between the room’s entryway and bathroom. After a quick shower, she rummaged through a suitcase and grabbed black jeans and a canary yellow shirt, swirled gel into her hair, and dashed across campus.

She arrived at Johnston Auditorium long after orientation ended and an hour after the orientation party began. First-year law students stood around the room, many of them holding plates or cups. The murmur of quiet conversation and the aroma of coffee and chocolate charged the air.

* * * *

Kaitlin walked to the table, served herself a brownie and several cookies, and sauntered across the room. Heart pounding, she reached the captivating woman and proffered her plate. “Want a cookie?”

The woman glanced at the plate and gazed up. When Kaitlin looked into those hazel eyes, her stomach fluttered. “I’m Kaitlin,” she croaked. Swallowing hard, she continued. “I couldn’t help noticing we’re dressed like mirror images of each other.”

Hazel eyes moved slowly from Kaitlin’s face to her feet, and back to her face. “Hello Kaitlin. I’m Liza. Pleased to meet you.” Liza grinned and extended her hand.

Kaitlin fumbled the plate and almost upended it. She gripped Liza’s hand and quickly released it. Had she squeezed too hard? Were her sports-calloused hands too rough? Feigning nonchalance, she turned and stood beside Liza. She picked up a cookie and took a bite.

“How tall are you, Kaitlin?” Liza asked. “Those legs of yours seem to go on forever.”

Kaitlin choked. She covered her mouth and coughed.

“Five-ten.” She looked down at Liza’s silky hair, swayed slightly, and smelled vanilla. “Where are you from, Liza?”

“Schenectady, New York. I flew in yesterday. Bellingham is not only prestigious, but beautiful as well. Isn’t it lovely here?”

“Here” is nothing compared to you, babe, thought Kaitlin, and for a jarring moment she thought she had said it aloud. She cleared her throat. “Yes. Bellingham is beautiful. My dad went here, and brought us back a few times.”

“‘Us’? You have brothers or sisters then?” asked Liza.

“Three brothers. Do you have siblings?”

Liza tensed and turned away. “No.”

They stood in silence.

Kaitlin cleared her throat again. “Sorry if that was too nosy.”

“No, no. No. It’s just that…” Liza glanced up and then closed her eyes.

Just before those enormous eyes closed, Kaitlin saw tears in them. Wanting to hug her but sensing it wouldn’t help, Kaitlin said, “Aw, I’m sorry. Whatever it is, I can see it hurts.”

Liza brushed at her eyes and wagged her head. “It’s been a year. I should be over it. My sister died.”

“Oh, no,” breathed Kaitlin. “That’s not something you get over in a year. I don’t think you ever get over losing someone you love.” Hesitantly she reached out and patted Liza’s shoulder.

“So,” said Liza. “How old are your brothers?”

Kaitlin leaned toward Liza. “Kendall is twenty-eight. He finished his psychology fellowship last year and has his own practice in Sacramento.” She squared her shoulders. “Kirk is, um, twenty-six? And baby Kip will be twenty next month.”

“Kendall is your favorite, huh?”

Kaitlin laughed. “What are you doing in law school? You should be a psychiatrist. Or a soothsayer.”

Liza smiled. “Why do you like Kendall best?”

“Hmm. Not sure I know the answer to that, but it’s true that I do. It’s not just because he gave me his Wrangler.” Kaitlin winked. “I’ve adored Kendall since birth. He’s just a good person.”

“Do you get along with the other two?”

“I do. We all get along just fine most of the time, even my mom and dad.”

“What do your parents do?”

“Besides love their kids?” Kaitlin laughed. “My dad’s an attorney, graduated from here. Mom is a sculptor. She has a shop in Paradise, California, where she and my dad live.”

“Yeah? What does she sculpt?”

“Busts, mostly.” Kaitlin inadvertently peeked at Liza’s. She blushed and quickly looked away. “You know, those head-and-shoulder things.”

“I know busts,” smirked Liza.

“Yeah?”

“Well, not personally of course.”

“Of course.” Kaitlin shifted uneasily.

After a brief silence Liza said, “I’ve enjoyed talking with you, Kaitlin. Maybe we’ll have a class or two together.” She walked across the room and out the door.

Oh, shit, thought Kaitlin. I just offended the most beautiful woman in my world. After discarding her uneaten snacks, she completed the orientation forms and trudged back to Piedmont Hall. Slowly she ascended the stairs and walked to her room.

She stopped at the door and raised her head. She smelled vanilla. Maybe, just maybe, Liza roomed in this dorm. Or perhaps Liza had recently walked down this hall to visit someone nearby. More than likely, someone on this floor used vanilla air freshener.

Kaitlin unlocked the door and pushed it open. She stopped in the doorway and stared.

Liza was in her room. Liza was in her room! Liza was sitting on the bed of the roommate Kaitlin hadn’t yet met.

Breathing heavily, Kaitlin stepped inside the room and quietly closed the door.

Clearly concentrating, Liza leaned over a book. Her bed on the left side of the room lay just past Kaitlin’s, with only two small nightstands separating them. Liza wore something powder blue, and a blanket covered her legs.

“Hi,” said Kaitlin.

Liza looked up. “Hey hi! So you’re my new roommate?

You must’ve run up the stairs.”

“Um, yeah. I did. In a hurry to sleep, I guess.”

“Oh. Well don’t mind me.” Liza smiled and dropped her gaze to the book.

Kaitlin lurched past her luggage, to the right, and into the bathroom. She shut the door and leaned against it. Closing her eyes, she inhaled and exhaled, inhaled, exhaled. She opened her eyes to her reflection in the mirror above the sink. “Whoa.

Okay,” she whispered. She turned on the faucet and splashed water onto her face. Raising her head she looked herself in the eye. “Calm down, Kaitlin. Flow with the go.” She dried her face and took one more deep breath.

Kaitlin walked back into the bedroom and stopped next to the second sink just outside the bathroom door. “So. How was the first part of orientation?”

Liza raised her eyebrows. “Weren’t you there?”

“No, I was late.”

“Oh. Well.” Liza placed the book face-down on the bed and straightened. “First the school’s president welcomed us.

After that some other people spoke but I wasn’t paying much attention. The final speaker was the registrar. She instructed us to complete our orientation forms before leaving the building.”

Liza smiled wryly.

Kaitlin ran a hand across her brow in mock relief. “Whew.

I did mine just before I left.” The roommates grinned at each other. Kaitlin rubbed her hands together. “Well jeez. How weird is this?” We happen to chat at orientation and turn out to be roommates.” She sat down near the end of her unmade bed.

“I’m so glad we are. I don’t know anyone else here.” Liza threw the blanket aside. “Let me help you make up your bed so you can get that sleep you ran up here for.” She stood, revealing white legs and bare feet beneath a short nightgown.

Kaitlin stood and moved quickly to her pile of belongings.

She opened a box and pulled out an orchid bedspread, turned, and nearly collided with Liza.

“Here, I’ll take that.” Liza reached out and gathered the bedspread into her arms. Kaitlin collected the rest of the bedding and carried it over. Working together, they made the bed. Kaitlin returned to her luggage, emptied a box onto the floor, and opened a suitcase.

Liza hopped back into bed and picked up the book.

“You’re not unpacking now, are you?”

Kaitlin turned to face her. “Oh. Sorry. Are you wanting to sleep now?”

“No, no. No. You said you were tired.”

“Oh! Yeah. I guess I will wait until tomorrow to unpack.”

Kaitlin removed a toothbrush from a bag and snatched a purple T-shirt from the suitcase. “I’ll just clean up then.” She slid off her shoes and padded into the bathroom. A moment later she returned, jumped into bed, and gratefully stretched out between the sheets.

“How do you get your hair to do that?”

Kaitlin raised her head. “What?”

Liza smiled. “How do you get your hair to stick out in spikes? I’ve tried to fix mine like that but it won’t cooperate.”

Kaitlin chuckled. “I wear my hair like this because it’s easy. Lazy, you know? But thanks for liking it.” Kaitlin leaned on her elbow and peered at Liza’s book. “Are you already reading a textbook?”

“Yes,” said Liza. “My criminal law class starts first thing next week.”

“But it’s only Friday. You have all weekend.” Kaitlin paused. “Plus Monday is Labor Day.”

Liza’s jaw tightened. “The early bird gets the worm, so they say.”

“My criminal law class starts Wednesday.” Kaitlin sat up.

“What other classes do you have?” Comparing schedules, they learned they had contracts and torts together.

Liza yawned. “Suddenly I’m sleepy, too.” She switched off her nightstand lamp. “Good night, Kaitlin.”

“Good night.” Kaitlin lay back down, closed her eyes and felt exhaustion wash over her. How can I sleep with luscious Liza in a bed right next to me, she thought, and immediately fell asleep.

* * * *

Kaitlin awoke to the sound of water running in the bathroom. Blinking in the predawn gloom, she turned onto her back and drifted into a light sleep. Some time later, she woke again when the bathroom door clicked. Eyes barely open, Kaitlin watched her naked roommate emerge from the bathroom and walk past their beds, sidle between Liza’s bed and the desks, and disappear beyond Kaitlin’s view.

Liza reappeared and dropped a navy blue dress onto the end of her bed. She tiptoed to her dresser next to the sink, and carefully opened a drawer. After slipping into some lacy panties and a matching bra, she wiggled into a pair of pantyhose. As she walked back to her bed, she checked Kaitlin’s face, and smiled when she saw that her stealth had paid off. Kaitlin’s eyes were closed and her face flushed. Maybe she’s enjoying a nice dream, Liza thought.

Liza stood in her underwear at the foot of her bed. She picked up the dress, slid it over her head, and began buttoning it.

Kaitlin yawned loudly, and Liza flashed a smile. “Good morning.

Did you sleep well?”

Kaitlin scooted into a sitting position and leaned against the headboard. “I did. How about you?”

“Sure did. These dinky dorm beds aren’t as bad as I feared.”

Kaitlin yawned again, this time more quietly. “Yeah, I learned long ago how to sleep comfortably even when I’m longer than the bed. Where are you off to so early?”

Liza frowned. “I thought we had the morning free.”

“So did I. But you’re all dressed up.”

“This is how I dress.” Liza turned and stepped past her dresser and into the corner behind the desks. She sat in a chair, crossed her legs primly, and thrust her chin into the air. “Dress for success, so they say.”

Kaitlin guffawed.

Liza’s eyes smoldered. “What are you laughing at?”

Perplexed, Kaitlin asked, “Weren’t you making a joke?”

“No, I was not.” Liza stood and strolled across the room.

Kaitlin leaned forward. “Hey, I’m sorry Liza. I didn’t mean to offend.” Wow, she thought, mental note number one: do not laugh at Liza.

Liza turned around. “No, I’m sorry.” She smiled sheepishly, and then walked to her bed and sat down. “It makes me a little crazy if someone laughs when I’m trying to be serious.

Makes me feel like they think I’m a bimbo, and I hate that.”

“Okay. It won’t happen again.” Kaitlin relaxed. “And I don’t see how anyone could ever mistake you for a bimbo. You’re beautiful and smart, and I’m glad you’re my roommate.”

Liza’s eyes welled with tears, and she blinked them away.

She swung her legs up onto the bed, leaned back against the headboard, and sighed. “Can I tell you something?”

Chapter 4

“Of course,” said Kaitlin. “Tell me anything.”

“My sister Esther was the smart one,” said Liza. “She was my mother’s favorite.”

Kaitlin asked gently, “If you don’t mind telling me, how did she die?”

“Cirrhosis. And she didn’t even drink.” Liza looked down.

“When Esther died, Mother didn’t speak to me for days. I was beginning to think she never would again, that because her real daughter died she wrote me off, too.”

“Yikes. That’s awful.” Kaitlin turned to face Liza and crossed her legs under the covers.

“Well, she started talking a few days later.” Liza picked at her dress.

Kaitlin waited a moment, but Liza didn’t continue. “Was Esther older or younger than you?”

“Older. Five years older.”

“I can only imagine how hard it must be to lose your only sibling.” Kaitlin paused. “Were the two of you close?”

Liza smoothed her dress and folded her hands in her lap.

“We were very close.”

“In most of the families I know, parents name their kids similarly—like our names all start with a K. But your parents chose two very different names for their daughters.”

Liza smiled sadly. “My real name is Elizabeth. I never use it now that my sister is gone. Too many memories. Too painful.”

She swung her legs off the bed. “Okay. Enough of that.”

Kaitlin turned away from Liza and rolled out of bed.

Standing next to her dresser she said, “How about we go to that restaurant I saw as I drove into Graceville, I forget what it’s called.”

“O’Malley’s?” Liza brightened. “I overheard someone at orientation say they have good breakfasts.”

Kaitlin stepped to her pile of belongings and grabbed jeans, a Harley T-shirt, and a bra. She carried them to her bed, pulled off her night shirt, and slipped into her day clothes. “It’s my treat so I’ll drive, okay?”

Liza chuckled. “I don’t have a car. So if you don’t drive, we’ll have to walk.”

* * * *

As the roommates approached the Wrangler, Liza

grinned. “So this is the car that your favorite brother gave you?”

“Yup. She ain’t pretty, but she’s all mine. Hop in.”

The O’Malley’s host seated Liza and Kaitlin in a booth by a window overlooking a lovely garden, but neither of them noticed the view. Someone took their order and brought coffee and food. Facing each other, they talked nonstop.

Liza took another bite of Eggs Benedict. “So as a diplomat, my dad’s job took us all over the world.” She leaned back, touched a napkin to her mouth, and tossed her head. “My sister and I learned early on to rely on each other.”

Kaitlin swallowed. “Do you think the bond was stronger than it would’ve been if you’d lived in one place?”

“Well, I don’t think so.” Liza frowned slightly. “I adored Esther long before I understood that we moved around. My earliest memory is of Esther’s first day of school. She was eight years old. My mother started her late for religious reasons.”

“Yeah? What religion?”

“Seventh-day Adventist.”

“But you’re a month younger than me, aren’t you?” Kaitlin watched Liza nod. “And I’ve always been one of the youngest kids in class. So why didn’t your mom start you late, too?”

“My mother’s zeal started affecting my dad’s job. When I was four or five, she befriended the wife of his boss and tried to convince her to become SDA.” Liza shook her head. “It’s required by the church—the witnessing mandate.”

Gazing at Liza, Kaitlin put the last of her breakfast burrito into her mouth. She nodded and chewed.

“I don’t know exactly what happened, but my dad’s boss got mad, and my mother realized that our livelihood was at risk.

After that, she pretended to be more mainstream.”

Kaitlin placed her napkin on the table. “Did your mom work outside the home?”

“She has a master’s in psychology, but has never used it—outside the home, that is.” Liza pursed her lips and inhaled through her nose. “When we moved to a new location, she always found the nearest SDA church and did volunteer work—

outreach, fund drives, Sabbath School, Bible studies, whatever.”

“I’ve heard about Seventh-day Adventists. Don’t they go to church on Saturday? Abstain from coffee and meat?”

“Yup, and yup. SDA-ism is cultish and strange, and proud of it. My sister called it ‘sadism.’” Liza laughed. “My mother never knew what a rebel Esther was.”

Kaitlin smiled. “What about your dad?”

“What about him? He was almost never home. And when he was, he didn’t say much.”

“The strong silent type?”

“More like the pussy-whipped type.” Liza sighed. “Don’t get me wrong. It’s not his fault. To live with my mother, he pretty much has to turn inside, tune her out, and just say yes-ma’am.”

Kaitlin and Liza leaned back as someone removed their plates. A girl in a green dress placed a bill on their table and hurried away.

Liza asked, “What are your parents like? Do they get along?”

“They do.” Kaitlin reached back and slipped a slim billfold out of her hip pocket. “Far as I can tell, they’ve always adored each other. I’ve never seen them fight.” She paused. “Growing up, there were a few times I sensed a vibe between them like—I don’t know—friction? But it never lasted long.”

After the girl in green collected the bill and credit card, Liza said, “Nice. You’re lucky.”

“I guess I am. We laughed a lot. Still do.”

“Were you born and raised in Paradise?” asked Liza.

“I was. Lived there through high school.”

“What happened after high school?”

Kaitlin pocketed the credit card and signed the voucher. “I left tiny boring Paradise, and moved in with Kendall in Sacramento.”

“He’s the brother that’s six years older—your favorite?”

“Yup. I lived with him for two years and went to Sac State, then got my own place for the rest of my undergrad experience.”

Liza grinned “I’ll bet it was fun growing up the only girl in a family of mostly boys.”

“Well, I didn’t always think so. I mean we had our moments.” Kaitlin smiled reflectively. “But I like rude jokes and roughhousing, and adore almost every sport, so my brothers usually just treated me like one of the boys.” She glanced around at the empty tables. “How long have we been here?”

Liza looked at her watch. “Uh-oh. It’s almost time for Freshman Initiation Assembly. We’d better hurry.”

* * * *

Following the assembly, back in their dorm room, Liza grabbed a book and flopped onto her bed, and Kaitlin unpacked.

After stowing empty luggage in her closet, Kaitlin lifted a stack of books from her dresser and carried it to the desks that faced each other beneath the room’s only window.

As Kaitlin passed the foot of her bed, Liza looked up.

Kaitlin nodded toward the desk on her right. “Mine, I presume?”

Liza grinned. “How’d you guess?”

After dropping the books on her desk, Kaitlin looked pointedly at the cluttered surface of the other. “Duh.”

Liza giggled. “They arranged this room with clear my-side your-side boundaries, except for the desks being on my side and the bathroom on yours.”

Kaitlin’s eyes twinkled. “If you let me sit and study in your space, I’ll let you do anything you want in mine.”

Liza raised an eyebrow. “Oh, my.”

Chapter 5

On a Thursday afternoon almost two weeks into law school, Kaitlin finished her last class of the day and walked along the mall. Noticing the light, she sat on a bench under a eucalyptus tree, slid her backpack onto the seat next to her, and leaned back.

The sun hung low in the sky, and afternoon shadows crept across the quad. Kaitlin loved this time of day. Colors gleamed at dusk. She had taken some photography classes during her senior year at Sac State. Toward the end of the advanced class, the instructor had arranged a weekend field trip to Yosemite.

* * * *

On Saturday evening as they sat around a campfire, the instructor said, “The best light of the day happens as daylight begins and as it ends.” He asked his students to rise before dawn on Sunday to capture the early morning light.

Kaitlin rose with her classmates, but kept mostly to herself as the group wandered about the valley. Awed by the predawn quietude, she photographed the awakening day. When she arrived home and processed her photos, the quality of light and color amazed her. She felt it was some of the best work she had ever done.

* * * *

And now, here, magical late-day light happened all around her. Kaitlin watched shafts of sunshine and deepening shadows play on the grass as starlings congregated in a nearby oak and sang lustily.

Kaitlin’s phone beeped twice. Opening it, she read a text message from Liza:

I C U :)

Kaitlin looked up and saw Liza on the other side of the mall, smiling at her. She stood and grabbed her backpack, shrugging into the shoulder straps as she walked. Liza called,

“I’m heading back to the dorm. What about you?”

“Me, too.” Together they walked under a canopy of trees and up the concrete steps of Piedmont Hall. Kaitlin tossed her backpack onto her desk, kicked off her shoes, and padded to the toilet, leaving the door slightly ajar.

After a moment Liza cleared her throat and called out,

“So, do you have a boyfriend at home? Do you date much?”

Kaitlin’s mouth went dry. Raising her voice to be heard, she said, “Who has time to date? We’re in law school now!” She zipped her jeans and washed her hands, and then walked out and perched on the edge of her bed.

Liza sat up and pursed her lips. “Hm. That’s a cagey response. Perhaps I’ll try another tack.”

Kaitlin smiled. “I know we’ve only been here two weeks, and I’m sure some day they’ll cover this, but may I share with you some things I learned from my dad about interrogation?”

“Okay.” Liza folded her hands in her lap.

“If you want a direct answer, ask a direct question. And ask one question at a time.” Kaitlin grinned. “It’s almost like a jigsaw puzzle—each piece builds on the one before it. Of course, my dad also said that you don’t ever ask a question that you don’t already know the answer to, or aren’t prepared to handle if it’s something other than what you expect.” Kaitlin paused. Eyes twinkling, she said, “Why am I helping you here?”

Liza chuckled. “Excellent advice. Thank you. I shall begin again. Do you have a boyfriend at home?”

“No.”

Liza smacked her lap.

Kaitlin smiled smugly. “My dad also taught me to answer only the question that is asked, and not to offer any extra information. Of course he waited to share that bit of advice until we were grown.”

Batting her eyelashes and cocking her head, Liza asked,

“Do you have a boyfriend anywhere on planet earth?”

Kaitlin guffawed and fell backward onto the bed. She sat up, dabbed her eyes, and said, “No.”

Liza raised an eyebrow. “Have you ever had a boyfriend?”

Kaitlin felt a familiar knot forming in her gut. She rarely had problems with others’ responses when they learned she was lesbian. Her experiences had been mostly positive. Once in a while someone would be taken aback, but usually they came around and said something like, “Well I loved you before. Why should this change anything?” It was impossible to gauge the outcome beforehand. She took a deep breath. “No.”

Liza leveled a piercing gaze on Kaitlin. “Girlfriend?”

Kaitlin snickered. Seeing Liza’s eyes narrow, she said in falsetto, “I’m sorry, is that a question, or are you calling me girlfriend?”

Liza giggled and blinked several times. “Do you have a girlfriend?”

“No.”

Liza threw herself backward onto the bed. “Arrrrrghhh”

She sat back up. In a louder voice she said, “Have you ever had a girlfriend?”

Kaitlin made a poker face and said mockingly, “First of all, I would like to point out that if you ever intend to practice law in a real courtroom, you might want to work on patience. Now to answer your question. Yes. Girlfriends? I’ve had hundreds.”

Liza grabbed her pillow and threw it at Kaitlin. “C’mon! I’m being serious here.” She pouted. “I had the nerve to ask. The least you can do is give me a straight answer.”

“Girlfriend? I don’t do anything straight.” Kaitlin chortled.

“There you have it. I had a few girlfriends in high school—the dating kind, not necessarily the best-friend kind. Although I have those, too.”

“Ah.” Liza nodded. “How many is a few?”

Kaitlin lifted her legs onto the bed and crossed them. “It’s not as if there were a lot of women to choose from. After high school, mostly I went to eighteen-and-older bars in Sacramento trying to find ‘girls like me.’ And I dated a few more lovely ladies in college. Nothing very serious ever came of any of it. They don’t exactly give us a road map for this stuff.”

“So…” Liza studied Kaitlin’s face. “Do you consider yourself experienced?”

Kaitlin reddened. “I beg your pardon?”

Liza pushed on. “Experienced. Do you have a lot of experience with women?” She swallowed. “Do you have carnal knowledge of women? And if so, how would you define that? A little? A lot?”

Kaitlin’s eyebrows shot up. “Wow. You certainly are direct when you want to be. What is this, truth or dare?”

“No. Just truth. Although I reserve the right to add a dare later.” Liza’s eyes twinkled, and then a shadow crossed her face.

“I’m sorry. If I’m being too forward, just say so. Please don’t feel compelled to say more than you’re comfortable saying. I’m truly interested in you and your life, but I don’t have the right to be nosy.”

Kaitlin’s shoulders relaxed. “No. It’s okay. You’re right. If you have the nerve to ask, I need to honor your question with an answer. So I will.” Kaitlin looked down for a moment and then raised her eyes and looked directly at Liza. She splayed her hands. “Let’s just say that I have had some experience with a few women. And what I would call ‘significant’ experience with only one. So I wouldn’t say that I am all that experienced in the grand scheme of life.”

“Interesting.” Liza nodded slowly. Quietly she said, “Thank you for being willing to share so much with me.”

Kaitlin stood. “Any time.” She walked toward the bathroom. “I’ll be right back.” She closed the door and leaned against it. Her heart pounded. Her flushed reflection stared back at her . Was it the questions? Was it the “coming out”? Was it because it was Liza?

Kaitlin breathed deeply. Long inhale, longer exhale. I keep doing these breathing exercises, she thought. Checking herself in the mirror, she ran her fingers through her hair and turned.

She threw open the door and said a little too loudly, “Anything else you want to know boys and girls? I’m here all night.”

Liza lay on her bed on top of the covers. Head on the pillow, arms above her head, her lips parted in a smile that took Kaitlin’s breath away. Liza stretched seductively. “I think you should show me what it’s like to kiss another woman.”

Kaitlin’s legs went weak. “Wha…?”

Chapter 6

“Yes,” continued Liza. “I’ve always been a little curious, I must admit. It would be fascinating to find out what it feels like to kiss a woman. And I think you are just the person to show me.”

She sat up, swung her legs off the bed, and stood. “I say we come back here tonight after dinner and tort review, and I think you should show me what it’s like.”

The room reeled. Get yourself together, thought Kaitlin.

She coughed. “Well, it does seem that you have it all mapped out. How long have you been thinking about this?”

“Oh, I don’t know,” Liza said unconvincingly, “a day maybe?”

Kaitlin stood stunned. Is she toying with me? Does she have any idea how attracted I am to her? Is she attracted to me, or is this merely an investigation? Hoping she sounded casual, Kaitlin said, “Well then. I’ll be happy to do what I can to help you in your quest for knowledge.”

“Good. It’s settled then.” Liza’s response sounded plenty casual—almost flippant. Liza sat down at her desk and shuffled through some papers.

Kaitlin sank onto her bed. She leaned against the headboard and lifted her contracts textbook from the nightstand.

Opening it, she tried to read but saw only a blur of words. After a few minutes, Liza stood. “Are you ready for dinner? The cafeteria is serving lasagna.”

* * * *

In the cafeteria, Kaitlin and Liza sat across from each other. Between bites, Liza talked about classes and classmates.

Unable to swallow past the lump in her throat, Kaitlin ate little and spoke less.

After dinner, at tort review, Kaitlin heard and contributed next to nothing. Liza, on the other hand, made continuous contributions—she was animated, smiling, and spoke with no apparent effort.

After tort review, the roommates walked in silence to the dorm. Kaitlin wondered if Liza had nerves of steel. Or maybe this is really no big deal to her, Kaitlin thought. Maybe Liza completely forgot the conversation that I cannot ignore. Liza unlocked the door and held it open for Kaitlin, and then stepped into the bathroom.

Kaitlin stripped, threw her clothes into the hamper in her closet, and slipped a white T-shirt over her head. She slid into a pair of white bikini briefs, and then sat on the edge of her bed waiting for her turn in the bathroom.

As Liza emerged, Kaitlin stood. In the bathroom she brushed her teeth and then splashed water onto her face, hoping it would settle the butterflies in her gut. Just stay cool, she thought, and strolled back into the bedroom.

Liza lay in her own bed, halfway under the covers, wearing that powder blue nightgown she had worn their first night in the dorm. She smiled and said, “Okay, I’m ready for my lesson. How do we go about this?”

Kaitlin swallowed hard. “I think maybe we’ll start by turning out the lights.” This is it, do or die, she thought, I just hope I don’t die. Kaitlin flipped the switch and moved toward Liza, guided by the light of the moon. “Mind if I join you here?”

“Please.” Liza scooted to the far side of the small bed and rolled onto her back.

Kaitlin stretched her body alongside Liza’s. Lying on her side, she leaned on her elbow and draped her free arm over Liza just below her breasts, carefully not touching them. This had to move slowly. There would be no taking of liberties, prematurely or otherwise.

Liza gazed up into Kaitlin’s eyes and smiled, showing no hint of nervousness.

Kaitlin looked deeply into Liza’s moon-brightened eyes.

Leaning over very slowly, she pressed her lips gently to Liza’s.

She pulled away slightly, and then kissed her again. Hm, thought Kaitlin, that wasn’t very passionate. And why didn’t I feel something profound? She pulled away and leaned back.

Liza looked at her blankly, and then finally spoke. “Well, that was nice. But not exactly what I had imagined.” They both burst out laughing. Liza spoke again. “I think we should try it one more time.”

Now feeling more relaxed, Kaitlin said lightly, “Well, only if you insist.” She leaned down and kissed Liza again, this time allowing herself to experience the exquisite softness of Liza’s lips. Tingling, she drew in a staccato breath and felt Liza’s body respond. Kaitlin raised her hand and touched Liza’s face. Liza turned and pressed her body fully against Kaitlin’s.

Arms tightly around Liza, Kaitlin turned onto her back, bringing Liza with her, on top of her, body to body. Pressed together, they continued kissing. The tingle became jolts of electricity that traveled from the nape of Kaitlin’s neck to the tips of her fingers and toes.

Finally, simultaneously, they withdrew, both breathing heavily.

Liza looked into Kaitlin’s eyes. “Well, that’s more like what I was expecting. Wow! More please.”

Kaitlin gauged every move by Liza’s reactions. She didn’t want to do anything that Liza wasn’t ready for, and she wouldn’t do anything that she sensed might make Liza uncomfortable.

Kissing Liza’s mouth, her ear, her neck, Kaitlin gently rolled Liza off of her and pulled off Liza’s nightgown. Lightly tracing her fingers along Liza’s taut belly, she kissed Liza’s cleavage and the tops of her breasts. Cupping a breast in her hand, she gently tongued its nipple. Liza gasped and threw her head back.

Kaitlin kissed one heaving breast and lightly pinched the nipple of the other. She sucked Liza’s breast into her mouth and trailed her hand down Liza’s side and across her leg. Softly she scratched Liza’s inner thigh and fluttered her fingertips. Liza moaned and opened her legs.

Slipping two fingers under silky fabric, Kaitlin slowly explored. She slid her fingers between Liza’s lips and stroked.

Liza arched her back and drew a shuddery breath. Kaitlin pulled off Liza’s panties. Gazing down into limpid eyes, she winked as she cupped her hand over Liza’s sex. Gently squeezing, she whispered, “You are beautiful, inside and out.”

Liza smiled tremulously. She breathed, “You are…I’m…

Um…”

Still squeezing, with her free hand Kaitlin caressed Liza’s face. “Love. Feel. Be.” She kissed Liza’s mouth. Circling and pinching a nipple with one hand, she slipped the other into Liza’s slick wetness. Pushing two fingers inside, she moved her thumb against Liza’s clit. She rocked her hand, sliding her fingers inside and out, drawing slow circles with her thumb. As Liza’s breath quickened, Kaitlin increased the pressure and pace.

Liza’s body trembled like a leaf in the rain, and then shuddered deliciously as waves of passion washed over her.

* * * *

Kaitlin and Liza spent the rest of the night and into the early morning in mutual exploration of each other.

Long after the moonlight disappeared, Liza dozed off, arms and legs intertwined with Kaitlin’s. Kaitlin felt Liza’s steady breathing and deeply inhaled the scent of her—vanilla and sex.

Exhaling slowly, Kaitlin closed her eyes, matched her breathing to Liza’s, and slept.

* * * *

A buzzer sounded nearby. Liza slapped at her nightstand until she found the clock’s snooze button. She extracted her leg from between Kaitlin’s.

“Hello beautiful,” Kaitlin said.

Liza turned her head toward Kaitlin, smirked, and said,

“Hello yourself.” Throwing the blankets off, Liza stood, stretched, and stepped toward the bathroom. “Time to get ready for class,”

she said, and closed the door.

Kaitlin blinked several times and then crawled out of Liza’s bed. She stood next to it, dazed, and thought, She’s acting like nothing happened, like it’s back to just roommates, like she’s nowhere near as affected as I am.

Liza’s clock buzzed again and Kaitlin jumped. She fumbled with it, and finally found the off button. She stepped to her own bed and flopped down on top of it. Staring at the ceiling, she heard the squeak of the faucet and then the shower. The sound of running water ceased, the bathroom door clicked, and Kaitlin closed her eyes. Feigning sleep, she listened as Liza dressed and wordlessly left the room.

Kaitlin sat up slowly, and sat on the edge of her bed for a few moments. Frowning slightly, she stood and began getting ready for class.

* * * *

After a full day of classes and an hour of studying at their respective desks, Kaitlin cleared her throat forcefully.

Liza looked up. “Yes?”

“I enjoyed last night, my friend.”

Liza grinned. “Me, too.” In a softer voice she said, “Thanks for showing me.”

“My pleasure.”

“I’ll be eternally grateful to you for deflowering me.”

“You were a virgin?”

“Well, not in the traditional sense, of course.”

“Ah,” said Kaitlin. “Of course.”

* * * *

Later that night, each quietly lying in her own bed, Liza broke the silence. “You still awake?”

“Yup.”

“I want to share a secret with you.” Liza cleared her throat.

“I intend to be president of the United States someday.”

“Oh, yeah? Wouldn’t surprise me a bit.”

“It’s my destiny. I’ve known it almost since birth. Even the actual date of my birth predicts it.”

Kaitlin smiled quietly in the dark. “How so?”

“November 1. One-one-one—a trilogy, or completion, of ones. I was born to be number one, leader of the free world.”

Liza paused for a moment before continuing. “My birth year, eighty-eight, corroborates it. In many Chinese dialects the spoken word that sounds like ‘eight’ means ‘luck.’ And two eights are double luck.”

“Wow! I sure didn’t expect you to be into numerology. Are you into astrology, too?”

In a lower voice Liza said, “I’m being serious here.”

“Oh, I know you are. You’re going to be president. I believe you.”

“Good,” said Liza. “And I don’t exactly believe in astrology.

But I do find it interesting that astrological predictions are so often accurate. I’m Scorpio, and most of what I’ve read about Scorpio describes me. When is your birthday again?”

“September 21. Virgo on the cusp of Libra.”

“Mm hmm. See? That describes you. The intensity of Virgo with Libra’s laid-back attitude.”

“Intense!” said Kaitlin. “Who you calling intense?”

Liza laughed. After a moment she said quietly, “What you did to me last night was wildly and wonderfully intense.”

“Glad to be of service, Madam President.” After a pregnant pause, Kaitlin sang a line from Jason Mraz’s ‘I’m Yours.’

“Nibble my ear?” Liza giggled. “Thought you’d never ask.”

She leaped from her bed to Kaitlin’s.

Chapter 7

The next morning, Saturday, Kaitlin and Liza slept in.

When the room grew too bright for Kaitlin to continue sleeping, she opened her eyes and gazed at Liza. Breathing her in, Kaitlin brushed a curl from Liza’s forehead.

Liza stirred and stretched. Opening her eyes, she smiled and snuggled in. “I’m ravenous. O’Malley’s?”

“Absolutely.” Kaitlin threw back the covers.

* * * *

An hour later, seated at their favorite table and drinking after-breakfast coffee, Liza lifted a corner of her mouth. Quietly she asked, “When did you first know you were gay?”

Kaitlin smiled. “Liza, my lover and friend, do you really want to know the answer to that?”

“I do.” Putting her elbows on the table, Liza rested her chin on her hands.

Kaitlin took a deep breath. “Okay. I’ll tell you anything you want to know. And since you ask, I’ll full-on bare my soul.”

Liza smiled, raised an eyebrow, and drawled, “Yeeees?”

Kaitlin took another deep breath. “I was a little pervert. Or so I thought when I was…eight maybe?”

Liza inhaled sharply. “You were sexual at eight?”

Kaitlin’s eyes clouded. After a pause, she asked, “Do you want to know? Are you sure you really want to hear this?”

“I want to hear it.” Liza smiled.

“Okay. Ever since I can remember I’ve felt this sexual tug.” Kaitlin swallowed. “In third grade, I had a friend named Georgette. She lived not far from my house. As much as an eight-year-old can, I respected Georgette. I didn’t want to do anything to offend her, much less hurt her. But God! I so wanted to touch her.” Kaitlin took a sip of coffee.

Liza watched Kaitlin intently. “Go on,” she encouraged.

Kaitlin exhaled. “One day—night really because in December sunset comes early—I had her in my back yard. She lay in my Red Flyer wagon, stretched out and pretending to be Sleeping Beauty. I leaned over and cupped my hand over her…”

Kaitlin paused. “I didn’t actually touch her. Not then. But she opened her eyes and looked straight into mine, and said, ‘Kiss me, Kaitlin. I want to feel you kiss me.’”

“Ooh,” said Liza. “Just like how I propositioned you.”

“I know.” Kaitlin laughed. “That was yet another thing that made you irresistible.” She continued. “So I did. Kiss Georgette, I mean. And it was good. That’s when I knew I was different. I never looked back.”

“Were you ever interested in boys?”

“I never was.” Kaitlin paused. “My only experience with boys was when I was about ten. A neighborhood boy, Tommy, who was about my age—we were buddies—played baseball together, skateboarded, that sort of thing. One day he said, ‘I’ll show you mine if you show me yours.’”

Liza grinned. “What did you do?”

“Well,” said Kaitlin, “I had just come home from some fancy function with my family and was wearing a dress. I thought that Tommy saw me as a girl instead of a pal, which bugged me.

But I was curious. I’d seen Kip when my mom changed his diapers, and wanted to know what a grown boy looked like.”

Liza nodded.

“Tommy took me to this shed in his back yard and kissed me.” Kaitlin shook her head. “By that time I’d been kissing Georgette for a couple of years.” She wrinkled her nose. “Tommy smelled like earthworms.”

Liza laughed. “Earthworms!”

“Yeah.” Kaitlin rubbed a hand across her mouth. “And his lips were dry and crusty. So I stepped back and said, ‘Okay, let’s see it.’” Kaitlin closed her eyes. “He pulled down his pants and pulled out this slug-shaped penis.”

Liza guffawed. “Earthworms and slugs! So that’s what little boys are made of.”

“Exactly!” Kaitlin grinned.

“Did you show him yours?”

“I didn’t want to. But a deal’s a deal. I raised my dress and pulled my panties down a bit, then pulled ‘em back up and tried to run. Tommy grabbed me, lifted my dress and pulled ‘em back down. Then he pinched my butt!” Kaitlin smiled crookedly.

“Oh, no!” said Liza.

“Yup. I slugged him and ran out of the shed.”

Still laughing, Liza dabbed at her eyes. “Were you and Tommy friends after that?”

“Yeah. We just pretended it never happened. Hey, this is kind of funny.” Kaitlin leaned forward. “Right after show-and-tell in the shed, I was playing on Tommy’s lawn with some of the neighborhood kids, and Tommy came out of the house with a Water Wiggle.” Seeing Liza’s puzzled expression, Kaitlin explained. “It’s a floppy hose with a bell-shaped head at the end.

The hose screws onto a spigot, and water sends the big-eyed head flying every which way.”

“Huh! Never heard of that.”

“They were recalled before we were born. But Tommy had one, and he turned on the water full-blast. It went berserk, immediately soaking us. We chased it, it chased us, all of us squealing and laughing.” Kaitlin shuddered. “Suddenly it wrapped around my legs and got up under my dress. I screamed my head off but couldn’t move. That evil thing whammed against me like a fist on a door, drenching me inside and out.” She leaned back in her chair and shook her head. “I never wore a dress again.”

Liza stifled a laugh. Reaching across the table, she patted Kaitlin’s hand. “Aw,” she said. “You were waped by water.”

Kaitlin guffawed, and peals of laughter erupted from Liza.

Several moments later Liza said, “Okay. Enough about boys and their hoses.” She grinned. “What else did you and Georgette do?”

“We played these games on the swing set. At least, I think it was a swing set. I don’t remember any swings, but I do remember the supporting bars on the side. That’s where Georgette stood, legs splayed because I told her to, while I…” Kaitlin looked down. “I made up stories, told her she was tied up while I and others touched her.” She shook her head. “I don’t know where I got such sadomasochistic ideas at such a young age.”

Liza chuckled. “I’m familiar with sadism, remember? But you seem fairly normal now.” She winked. “Aside from liking girls, that is.”

Kaitlin leaned forward and squeezed Liza’s hand. “Girl. I like one girl, woman, and that’s you.”

Chapter 8

On September 21 of their first year of law school, Kaitlin and Liza awoke in Liza’s bed.

“Happy birthday, Kaitlin.” Liza buried her nose in Kaitlin’s hair. Kissing her ear, Liza whispered, “How shall we celebrate your big two-two?”

Kaitlin groaned. “First I must pee.” She wriggled out of bed and trotted to the bathroom. When she returned, Liza was sitting at her desk, laptop open, peering at the monitor.

“This is fascinating. Says here that Virgos and Scorpios are simpatico.” Liza looked pointedly at Kaitlin. “Their romantic compatibility is volcanic, and sex between them improves over time.” Her eyes glittered. “Not sure I can handle that.”

“You can’t handle the truth?” Grinning, Kaitlin flopped down onto her bed.

Liza continued. “If both parties are emotionally healthy, they typically mate for life. Virgo keeps Scorpio grounded, and Scorpio soothes Virgo’s soul.” Liza stood and stepped around her bed. She stopped, and a grin spread across her face.

“Girlfriend,” she said. “You and I are Zen and Tonic.”

“Aha!” Kaitlin rolled onto her side and gazed at Liza. “And how do you repay me for this grounded bliss?”

“Besides soothing your soul?” Lifting an eyebrow, Liza said, “How about some volcanic sex?”

“Oh, yeah. You do give me that.” Kaitlin grinned. “More please.”

Liza smiled and stretched. “Maybe we should get ready for class. But first I have a surprise for you.” She opened her closet, stood on tiptoe, and slid a small package off the top shelf.

“You shouldn’t have.” Kaitlin opened the box and gasped.

“Amethyst?”

“Yeah.” Liza reached out and plucked the ring from the box. “Here. Let me.” She slipped it onto Kaitlin’s finger, and gave her a long kiss.

Kaitlin and Liza breezed through the rest of September and October, studying their textbooks and each other, and enjoying the colors of autumn. Oak leaves warmed to a golden hue, the leaves of cottonwood and aspen turned lemon yellow, and maple and ash blushed crimson.

* * * *

On the first day of November, Kaitlin dressed for Monday’s classes while Liza studied at her desk. “Hey Liza?”

Without taking her eyes off her book, Liza murmured, “Mm hmm?”

Kaitlin sat down at her desk facing Liza. Lifting her hand and waggling a purple-ringed finger, she said, “Me Virgo. You Scorpio.” She slid open her desk drawer and handed Liza a small black box.

“What’s this?” Liza lifted the lid. “Aquamarine! One of my birthstones, and my absolute favorite color. Thank you!” She handed the box to Kaitlin and extended her hand. “Please?”

Kaitlin slid the ring onto Liza’s finger. “Happy twenty-second birthday!”

* * * *

Two weeks later, midterm examinations began. On Friday afternoon following their last test, Kaitlin and Liza lay on their beds discussing the week.

“My criminal law exam was brutal,” said Kaitlin.

“Mm. But contracts was a breeze.”

After a pause Kaitlin said, “I’m feeling antsy. Want to go get a beer? Fall break starts tomorrow, and I won’t see you for a week.”

“I’m pretty tired,” said Liza. “A beer sounds good, but…”

“Just us? Or do you want to see if anybody else wants to go along?” asked Kaitlin.

“It’s up to you.”

Kaitlin sat up. “Let’s see what Jeannie and Nikki are doing.”

Closing her eyes, Liza said, “S’up to you.”

Kaitlin stood. “Be right back.”

A few minutes later, Kaitlin returned with Jeannie and Nikki, and found Liza asleep. Nikki leaped onto Liza’s bed. Liza grunted and opened an eye. “C’mon,” said Nikki. “Come with us to O’Malley’s.”

“Uh-uh.”

“Puhhhh-leeeez?” Nikki hopped up and down.

Liza’s head bounced on the pillow. She frowned. “You guys go have fun. Please.”

As Nikki stood, Kaitlin said as casually as she could, “Well fine then. Come on Nikki, Jeannie, let’s go.” The three women exited Piedmont Hall and walked to the Jeep, sprightly Nikki flanked by her statuesque friends.

As they drove to O’Malley’s, Jeannie said, “Diane sat next to me in criminal procedure this afternoon and is looking for some fun. Should we invite her and Craig?”

“Sounds good to me,” said Kaitlin. “Let’s make it a party.”

Jeannie flipped open her phone and scrolled. Tossing back her long cocoa hair, she put the phone to her ear and arranged for Diane and Craig to meet them at O’Malley’s.

The host seated Nikki, Jeannie, and Kaitlin at a table on the patio, beneath a trellis covered with flowering wisteria. Kaitlin ordered a pitcher of Carlahan, an O’Malley’s microbrew. A tall handsome server delivered the beer.

Jeannie raised two fingers, and the server stepped to her side. Jeannie looked up. “I’d like a bottle of red wine, your house brand please.”

“Certainly.”

Moments later, Diane and Craig strolled onto the patio, drawing admiring looks. Craig grabbed two chairs from an adjoining table. “Hope you all don’t mind, but I invited Bruce.”

Jeannie groaned.

Red-haired Bruce swaggered onto the patio, followed by his girlfriend Belinda. Craig rose and, with Bruce’s help, dragged an empty table to theirs. The server returned with Jeannie’s wine and a long-stemmed glass, another pitcher of Carlahan, and more mugs.

Bruce seated Belinda, but remained standing. “Craig, you clearly need help with your harem.” He adjusted himself. “May I be of service ladies?”

Kaitlin glanced at Jeannie and crossed her eyes.

Jeannie’s jaw clenched and her nostrils flared. Turning to Bruce’s girlfriend she said sweetly, “Belinda? Wouldn’t you welcome the opportunity to relinquish Bruce’s servicing?”

“Ha!” said Bruce. “Nice one, Jeannie.” Turning to the rest of the group, he spread his beefy hands. “That reminds me.

What do you call a lesbian with long fingers?”

“Bruce, don’t you think…” began Belinda.

Bruce grinned and wiggled his fingers. “Well hung.”

Kaitlin choked on her beer. Belinda’s round face reddened.

Jeannie’s smile didn’t reach her eyes. “There you go again. Attributing maleness to something that’s got nothing to do with men.”

“Okay kids,” Craig said smoothly. “We’ve all had a tough week. Please. Let’s not take it out on each other.” The friends relaxed and settled in. They partied companionably, despite the occasional spat between Jeannie and Bruce.

Later that evening, Kaitlin switched from Carlahan to coffee. When Nikki announced, “I’m sufficiently soused,” Kaitlin drove her and Jeannie back to the dorm.

* * * *

When the partiers entered Kaitlin’s room, they found Liza awake and sitting at her desk.

“Can you believe Bruce, that arrogant ass!” exclaimed Jeannie as she sat on the end of Kaitlin’s bed.

Nikki threw herself onto Liza’s bed. Furtively she cast an appreciative glance at Liza, and then turned toward Jeannie.

“Jeannie, honey, I wish you wouldn’t let him get to you like that.”

Kaitlin placed her pillow against the headboard and leaned back. Crossing her legs she said, “Bruce can be a jerk.

But I really don’t think he means to be.”

“He really isn’t meant to be,” said Jeannie crossly.

“Aw c’mon Jeannie,” said Nikki. “We have to let people like him be if we expect folks to allow people like us to be.”

Liza’s head shot up. “What on earth does that mean?”

Nikki blushed. She glanced at Jeannie. “Well…”

“Go ahead. Tell her,” said Jeannie. “I’ve got nothing to hide.”

Nikki coughed. Turning toward Liza, she said, “We’re a couple.”

Liza’s jaw dropped, and she stared blankly at Nikki.

“Jeannie and I. We’re in love.”

“Oh.” Liza closed her mouth.

“Well, I only mention it because…” Nikki glanced at Jeannie again. “Because we’re pretty sure you and Kaitlin are a couple, too.”

Kaitlin saw Liza squirm. Quickly she interjected, “Now what would make you think that?”

Nikki faced Kaitlin. “Well. It was just a hunch. If I’m wrong, no offense.”

“None taken.” Kaitlin smiled like a politician.

* * * *

Fall break began the next day. Kaitlin and Liza awoke early, cleaned up, finished packing, and pulled their suitcases out of Piedmont Hall.

Kaitlin drove Liza and herself to Graceville Airport. After leaving the Jeep in a long-term lot and shuttling to the terminal, Kaitlin hugged Liza and left her at the gate of a flight to New York, and then boarded her flight to Sacramento.

Chapter 9

Kaitlin’s dad met her curbside in his Range Rover. As he merged onto I-5, Ken said, “Punkin, you look pale. Are you feeling all right?”

“Papa, I’m just fine.” Kaitlin smiled. “There’s not a lot of sunshine in Oregon this time of year. And I’m indoors studying most of the time.”

“We have a ten o’clock tee time tomorrow.” Ken grinned.

“Golf will tan you up.”

“Great!” After a pause Kaitlin asked, “How’s Mama?”

“Fine. She’s doing fine. Lumpectomy incision finally healed. Annual mammograms will ensure she stays cancer free.”

Kaitlin cleared her throat. “How’s the practice?”

“Plenty busy.”

“And my brothers?”

“Kip’s still going to Butte College. Last year he drove to Oroville and attended classes five days a week. Now he’s only going two or three. When he’s home he stays in his room, studying I hope.”

“Oh!” Kaitlin slapped her leg. “I talked to Kendall yesterday.

He can’t come up this weekend, but he and Gwen will drive up the night before Thanksgiving.” Kaitlin gazed at her dad. “Gwen is due to deliver your first grandchild in less than a month.”

“I know.” Ken beamed. “They’re naming her Kendra.”

“Yeah? After you or Kendall?”

Ken straightened his spine. “Both.”

Kaitlin and Ken rode in comfortable silence for most of the ninety-minute commute. Ken drove through Paradise, and pulled into the driveway of a rustic two-story house.

Marianne met them in the foyer. “Oh, Kaity, it’s so good to see you!” she trilled.

“Mama!” Kaitlin wrapped her arms around Marianne.

“Take your things on up to your room, sweetie. Dinner is almost ready.”

Kaitlin carried her suitcase upstairs. As she walked past Kip’s closed door she called, “Hi Shrimp, I’m home.” She continued down the hall and tossed her suitcase onto her bumblebee bedspread.

Turning quickly, Kaitlin ran into someone and shrieked.

She looked up into Kip’s green eyes. After lightly punching him in the stomach, she gave her brother a quick hug and said,

“Dinner’s almost ready.”

At the table, Kaitlin scooped mashed potatoes onto her plate and passed the bowl to Kip. “How’s the orange beast?”

Kip grinned. “I love that car.” When he was fifteen, Kip had rescued a battered Volkswagen Bug from a junkyard, restored it, and painted it his favorite color. On his sixteenth birthday, after getting his driver’s license, he took the orange Bug on a day-long maiden voyage, and had been driving it ever since.

Kaitlin lifted her fork. “How do you like being a college sophomore?”

Kip mumbled unintelligibly and swallowed. He tried again.

“Fine. College is fine.”

After a quiet moment, Marianne asked, “What about you Kaity? How is law school?”

“It’s great!” Kaitlin blushed.

Marianne’s green eyes locked onto Kaitlin’s. “A little too great, maybe?”

“Maybe.” After a pause Kaitlin coughed. “See, I met someone. Someone very special.”

“Ah,” said Ken. “She’s at Bellingham then?”

“She is. And she’s in Piedmont Hall with me. Actually, she’s my roommate.” Kaitlin grinned.

“Congratulations, sweetie,” said Marianne. “When do we get to meet—what is her name?”

“Liza Sterling. I’ll bring her home for spring break, if that’s all right with you.”

“Sounds good.” Marianne smiled.

Kip lowered his voice and asked, “Is she hot?”

“Very.” Kaitlin winked. “But she’s not for you, Shrimp.”

Kip flashed a lopsided smile.

“Wait a minute,” said Ken. “Spring break is half a year away. Why don’t you bring her home for Christmas?”

Kaitlin looked down. “Mama, Papa I won’t be coming home for Christmas this year. Liza and I are spending the holidays in Hawaii.”

“Hawaii.” Ken scratched his chin. “Where are you getting the money for that?”

“I’ll use some of my savings. Liza found an excellent bargain on hotel and airfare online. She and I are splitting the cost.”

“Lucky, lucky you,” said Kip. “Winter is the best time for surfing in Hawaii. The waves get huge. I saw a TV show about a surf spot called Jaws. The waves are so big surfers have to be towed.”

Kaitlin raised her eyebrows. “In that case, I don’t think I’ll be doing much surfing.”

* * * *

The next morning, Kaitlin and her dad ate a quick breakfast and drove to nearby Tuscan Ridge. As usual, they shared a bucket of balls on the driving range before teeing off, and on the golf course Ken drove the cart.

Kaitlin cherished these games with her dad. She had his undivided attention, and the tranquility of the golf course often produced deep and meaningful conversation. At the first tee, Kaitlin grinned and said, “Do we flip a coin? Or should I take pity and let you tee off first, old man?”

Ken tried to hide a smile. In mock disbelief, he replied,

“Who you calling old man? I cannot believe you would utter such disrespect for your elders. I raised you better than that! Step back, kid, and let me show you how this is done.”

Ken’s drive off the tee was perfect. “What did I tell you, kid? Go ahead. Show me up.”

Grasping the ball, tee between two fingers, Kaitlin stuck the tee into the ground and balanced the ball in one swift motion.

She moved back and took a few practice swings. A slight breeze blew from the left as she stepped up to the tee.

Ken watched his only daughter coil back, driver held high, and uncoil a swing that launched the ball in a flawless arc. They both watched the ball land and then bounce at least ten yards beyond his. He let out a long, low whistle. “Nice, punkin. Very nice.”

Halfway through high school, Kaitlin had begun using the men’s tees when she played with her dad. It was less hassle, and besides, she had started out-driving him the year before. It didn’t undermine his ego at all. Instead it became a bragging point with his cronies.

They played silently through the first couple of holes.

Kaitlin inhaled the crisp mountain air. Birds twittered as a breeze rustled through the treetops. Morning sunshine danced between pine shadows, dappling over them as they moved beneath the trees. Relishing the Zen-like serenity of the great green course, Kaitlin shivered slightly.

By the third tee, Ken and Kaitlin were warming up, both physically and conversationally. After their second shots from the fairway, as they whirred along in the cart, Ken cleared his throat.

“So, tell me about this lovely lady of yours. Is she really all you say she is?”

“More than that, Papa. There’s just something about her.

I’ve never felt this way about anyone.” They rolled over a bumpy stretch, and Kaitlin held onto her hat. Grinning, she continued.

“Liza’s smart, she’s attractive, and she makes me smile.

Everything feels so right when we’re together.”

Ken pulled the cart next to the green, came to a stop, and turned to look at Kaitlin. “Well then, punkin, I won’t argue with it.

The truth is, I think you still have time to make decisions about serious relationships. But I also know that it might be a little more difficult for you.”

He paused and rubbed his chin. “This is going to come out sounding rougher than I mean it, but I know that things aren’t as easy for relationships like yours, and that it might be harder to find someone.” He spread his hands. “All I’m trying to say is that I don’t want you to get hurt. But you’re a big girl, and a smart girl, and you’re old enough and wise enough to know what works for you.”

Ken stepped out of the cart and pulled a putter from his bag. “The other day I read a description of golf by Mac O’Grady:

“One minute you’re bleeding.

The next minute you’re hemorrhaging.

The next minute you’re painting the Mona Lisa.

“Seems to me that’s a lot like life. Full of ups and downs and twists and turns. All we can really expect to do is negotiate it with grace and dignity.”

Putters in hand, father and daughter stepped onto the green. “My hope for you is that your life is mostly full of ‘Mona Lisas.’ I know I can’t protect you forever. So punkin, be happy.”

Ken squeezed Kaitlin’s shoulder. “That’s it. That’s all I’ve got.”

“I am happy, Papa. I truly am.”

“Good. Now let’s sink these putts and get on with it.”

* * * *

That evening, Kaitlin watched a football game with Ken and Kip while Marianne puttered in the kitchen. The phone rang, and Marianne answered it. After chatting animatedly, Marianne carried the wireless phone into the den. “Kirk, Kaity is here. Why don’t you say hi to her?” Without waiting for a response, she handed the phone to Kaitlin.

Frowning slightly, Kaitlin stood and put the phone to her ear. “Hi, Kirk.”

“Hi, yourself.”

“I hear you’re not coming home for Thanksgiving.” Kaitlin walked around the sofa and through the doorway into the hall.

“That’s right. And I hear you’re bringing a girl home for spring break.”

“Word travels fast.”

“Are you sure that’s wise? You know I’m running for office after I finish my master’s.”

Quietly Kaitlin said, “And you think a lesbian sister will hurt your chances.”

“Well, duh.”

Kaitlin drawled, “I had no idea I was so powerful, your Kirkness.”

Kirk snarled, “I’ll be there to keep an eye on you. Got to go. Say good-bye to the folks for me.”

Kaitlin laid the phone on the hallway table and shook her head. When she looked up, she saw her mom in the kitchen, worriedly watching her. Kaitlin smiled reassuringly. “Kirk said to give everyone his love. He had to run to an appointment.”

“Well, good grief and grits! It’s after ten in Atlanta. What sort of appointment could he possibly have at this hour?”

Kaitlin called over her shoulder, “He didn’t say.”

Blocking the doorway to the den and looking down, Kip said, “Wait! Don’t move!”

Kaitlin stopped mid-stride. Stepping back, she grinned.

“What is it? What are you saving?”

“A huge wolf spider.”

Kaitlin switched on the hall light, dropped to her knees, and scanned the hall floor. Pointing at a twitching, blustering spider, she leaned back on her heels.

Kip corralled the spider with his huge hands, and waited until it hopped onto his palm. Cupping his hands closed, Kip stood and walked toward the front door. “Sis?”

Kaitlin jumped up. Opening the door, she stepped back and watched her baby brother release the spider into the night.

* * * *

On Monday morning, Ken went to the office, and Kip drove to school in Oroville. As Marianne left for her sculpture shop, she called out, “Kaity, call me if you need anything. The keys to the Volvo are on the rack.”

For the next three days Kaitlin studied, watched television, surfed the Internet, and lunched with high school friends. She and Liza spoke on the phone and exchanged text messages and e-mails throughout the week.

* * * *

Late Wednesday afternoon, Kaitlin’s eldest brother Kendall and his wife arrived in their Mini Cooper. Kaitlin heard the slamming of a car door and ran outside to greet them. After hugs all around, Kaitlin laughed and said, “You’re going to have to upgrade once Kendra pops out.”

“No kidding,” said Gwen as she lumbered toward the house. “That car’s not even big enough for me, much less a baby. And a car seat. And all the baby paraphernalia we’re accumulating.”

Kaitlin patted Kendall’s stomach and grinned impishly.

“You, too?”

“Yeah.” Kendall smirked. “But she’s only eating for two.

I’m eating for three.”

Kaitlin chuckled. “It suits you. You were too skinny. Now you look content and handsomer than ever.”

Kendall laughed. “Mom’s Thanksgiving cooking will no doubt catapult me from pleasantly plump to positively porky.”

Marianne met them at the door. She hugged Kendall and carefully squeezed Gwen. Turning to Kendall she said, “Your father and brother are in the den, watching boxing.” She grimaced.

“Let’s go say hi.” Kendall took Gwen’s hand and walked down the hallway. Kaitlin and Marianne followed, and smiled as they watched the greetings.

“Have you eaten?” asked Marianne.

“Yeah, Mom, we ate,” Gwen said.

“I made pineapple upside-down cake.” Marianne raised an eyebrow.

Kendall groaned.

“Come on.” Marianne gestured toward the kitchen. “Just a small piece.”

After eating cake, Gwen said, “I’m sorry to be a party pooper, but I’m going to have to go to bed. I can barely keep my eyes open.”

“Oh, honey, of course,” said Marianne. “You must be exhausted.”

Kendall grinned. “I’ll go with her. Watching out for baby’s mama.” With both hands on Gwen’s back, Kendall followed her up the stairs.

* * * *

Kaitlin awoke early Thanksgiving morning, and padded downstairs. Marianne was already in the kitchen, peeling potatoes. Kaitlin prepared her salmon dip, and then followed Marianne’s recipe for candied yams. Ken joined them, and cut up vegetables for his relish dish. Later that morning Kendall prepared his specialty, creamed broccoli, and Kip made his Pillsbury dinner rolls.

At noon the Hamiltons feasted. After Thanksgiving dinner, they cleaned the kitchen and settled in the den for an afternoon of football.

* * * *

On Saturday—Kaitlin’s last full day of fall break—she and her family took a day trip. After breakfast, they caravanned in two cars to Lake Oroville, Marianne and Kip in Ken’s Rover, and Kaitlin and Gwen in Kendall’s Mini.

Kendall glanced over his shoulder and smiled. “I hear you have a girlfriend.”

Kaitlin grinned at her brother’s reflection in the rear-view mirror. “I do. I’m bringing her home for spring break.”

Gwen turned toward Kendall. “Maybe you could take some time off, honey. It would be fun to hang out with your family and share Kendra.”

“I should be able to arrange that,” said Kendall. “It’s in March, right?”

Kaitlin flipped open her phone and tapped a few keys.

“March 19 to 27.”

Gwen bounced. “Let’s do it!” She winced.

“Are you okay?” Kendall shot her a worried look.

“I’m okay. I just need to pee.” Gwen stared straight ahead.

“Soon.” Kendall flashed his headlights, signaling that a stop was needed.

At Lake Oroville, the Hamiltons toured the hatchery.

Through windows below a fish ladder, they watched as salmon struggled uphill for spawning. Standing behind Gwen, Kendall wrapped his arms around her and kissed the top of her head.

Patting her belly, he said, “The desire to procreate is a powerful force.” Gwen tipped back her head and grinned up at her husband.

The family returned to their cars and pulled lunch from the trunk of the Rover. They carried a basket and boxes to a shaded table near the fish ladder. Ken spread a tablecloth on the table, and Kaitlin and Gwen helped Marianne unpack the basket. Kip poured lemonade into cups while Kendall and Ken opened containers and set the table. The lapping sound of fish swimming upstream accompanied the feast.

Later that day, after exploring the dam and the visitor’s center, they returned home and wearily bade one another good-night.

* * * *

The next morning, Ken drove Kaitlin to the airport. After hugging her, he placed a folded piece of paper in her hand.

“Merry Christmas, punkin.”

Kaitlin unfolded the check. “Papa! A thousand dollars?”

“Cash it quick, before I change my mind.” He smiled.

“Have fun in Hawaii.”

* * * *

That night Kaitlin and Liza reunited in their dorm room.

Snuggled into Kaitlin’s bed, Liza whispered, “I missed you so much. How was Thanksgiving?”

“Wonderful.” Kaitlin kissed Liza’s face and smiled into the darkness. “Good food, great fun. But I missed you something fierce.”

“Of course you did. And how are the Hamiltons?”

“Kendall and Gwen are hugely with-child and adore each other.” Kaitlin trailed her fingers along Liza’s bare shoulder. “Oh!

And my dad gave me a thousand dollars for Hawaii.”

“He did?” said Liza. “What are you going to do with it?”

“Hmm. Glider ride maybe?”

Liza nuzzled Kaitlin’s neck. “Sounds fun.”

“So,” said Kaitlin. “How was Thanksgiving in Schenectady?”

“Lonely.” Liza sighed. “Fractious.”

“Yeah? How so?”

Liza pulled back and sighed again. “Lonely because my dad wasn’t there. Fractious because my mom was. But that’s the last thing I want to talk about.”

Liza slid a finger across Kaitlin’s silky waist. “Kiss me, Kaitlin. I want to feel you kiss me.”

* * * *

Later that week, Kaitlin’s phone beeped twice. She opened it and read a text message from Kendall: 7 lb Kendra Marie Hamilton born this AM @ 4:45 :D

Grinning, Kaitlin texted congratulations to her brother.

Chapter 10

Kaitlin had never been to Hawaii, and Liza had only been once at the age of ten. On a rainy Thursday afternoon two days before Christmas, they embarked on their Hawaii holiday. After a shuttle flight from Graceville to San Francisco, they changed planes and headed for Honolulu.

Shortly after takeoff, Liza leaned forward, unzipped the backpack near her feet, and pulled out her tort textbook. She glanced at Kaitlin and pouted. “What are you looking at? Finals are three weeks after we get back.”

Kaitlin smiled. “Yeah, I know. We’ll both have to do some studying over the holidays. I’m just hoping to keep it to a minimum.” She sighed and pulled her tort book from her bag.

“Okay, let’s get some of it over with.”

They studied together for most of the five-hour flight.

* * * *

At nine o’clock Friday night, Hawaii Time, their plane landed in Honolulu. Liza and Kaitlin retrieved luggage from baggage claim, and walked out into a warm winter night.

“Do you feel that air?” asked Kaitlin in amazement. It feels heavy, pregnant, almost silky.” She rubbed her fingers together and laughed. “I just want to gulp it down and eat it up.”

Liza grinned at her. “I do remember the feel of the air when I came to Hawaii with my family. But it was summertime.”

She wrinkled her nose. “Sweaty and sticky.”

They caught a shuttle bus to the Sheraton Waikiki, and entered the hotel’s elegant open lobby. Liza grinned at Kaitlin.

“Oh, I like it already.” After checking in, they took the elevator to the fourth floor.

Kaitlin unlocked and threw open the door. She whistled.

“This is great.” She strolled across the room and opened the sliding glass door. Out of the darkness rose the sound of ocean on sand, and a wave crashed in the distance.

Liza stepped in behind Kaitlin and hugged her. Nuzzling the nape of Kaitlin’s neck, she whispered, “Finally we’re here, just you and me, in paradise.”

Kaitlin chuckled. “Not to be confused with Paradise, California.” She turned and scooped Liza into her arms, spun in a circle, and skipped across the room.

“Wow,” gasped Liza. “Goodness, Kaitlin, you’re strong!”

“I’ve always been freakishly strong for a girl. Came in handy with three brothers.” She tossed Liza onto the king-size bed and dove in beside her. Later that night, they fell asleep cuddled into a twin-size edge of the bed, with the scent of plumeria and pikake sweetening their dreams.

* * * *

The next day was Friday, Christmas Eve. Liza and Kaitlin remained in bed until one o’clock. That afternoon they wandered through Waikiki holding hands. In the International Marketplace, they encountered the shopkeeper who sold Liza five colorful puka shell necklaces and essentially changed Kaitlin’s name.

As they left the marketplace Kai asked, “Where shall we have dinner?”

“I only remember one restaurant here.” Liza smiled. “I remember its name, but not its location.”

“Well, you were only ten,” said Kai. “What’s its name?”

“Hy’s. It was the fanciest restaurant I’d ever seen.” Liza’s eyes softened. “My sister showed me which utensil to use for each course of the meal.”

Kai turned back toward the marketplace. “Let’s ask the puka-shell saleslady where it is.” Approaching the woman, Kai said, “Excuse me. Could you tell us where to find Hy’s?”

“Hy’s!” The shopkeeper frowned and shook her head.

“What Hy’s?”

“It’s a restaurant,” prompted Kai.

“Hy’s Steak House? Over there.” The woman thrust her chin away from the ocean. “Cross the street and walk that way.”

She flapped a hand in the direction of Diamond Head.

Seated at Hy’s, Liza said, “Kai?”

Chewing a bite of filet mignon, Kai smiled. “Mm hmm?”

“Ever since we learned how to pronounce Kai, I’ve been looking at Hawaiian words and listening to how people say them.

I think Hawaiian is written and spoken a bit like Spanish.”

Kai swallowed. “How so?”

“It’s how the vowels are pronounced and where the accent is placed,” said Liza. “In Spanish, and apparently also in Hawaiian, the letter A is pronounced ah like ‘paw,’ E is A like

‘hay,’ and I is E like ‘wee.’”

“What about O and U?” asked Kai.

“Same as in English— oh and ooh. And in Hawaiian, double O’s aren’t ooh, they’re oh-oh.” Liza picked up her fork and took a bite of pipi salad, which the menu identified as beef.

“Oh-oh?” Kai bit into another forkful of filet mignon.

Liza swallowed. “Yeah. And the second-to-last syllable is accented for most of the words in Spanish. Seems true for Hawaiian, too. Kuhio. Manoa. Aloha. Even big words like the name Liliuokalani.

Kai grinned. “I love how that rolls off your tongue.”

* * * *

On Christmas Day, Kai and Liza joined a whale-watching tour at the Ala Wai Marina. Along with fifty or sixty other tourists, they boarded a hydraulically motion-controlled boat. As the boat pulled away from the dock, Liza gestured at the marina. “Do you recognize this place?”

Kai frowned. “It looks familiar, but I can’t place why.”

Liza whistled an old television tune.

“Oh, yeah!” Kai grinned. “Gilligan’s Island. So the intro was filmed here?”

“It was.” Liza smiled softly. “My dad took Esther and me on a sailboat trip that started from here, and he told us all about it. Then we went back to the hotel and watched Gilligan’s Island.”

She giggled.

During the three-hour whale-watching tour, the captain called the group’s attention to a baby humpback swimming alongside its mother. Later a huge whale breached. Like a newborn island, it parted the sea and erupted. Poised as though praying, slowly it tipped, fell, and crashed into the water, leaving a footprint as big as a bus.

* * * *

The next morning after breakfast, Kai and Liza wandered along Kalakaua Avenue where it nuzzles the beach. With stores and restaurants on one side and the ocean on the other, they window-shopped, soaked up sunshine, and feasted their eyes on the sea.

Kai pointed at a lineup of motorcycles beneath a sign that read, ‘Rent a Harley.’ She bounced on her toes. “Ever been on one of those?”

Liza’s eyes sparkled. “No, but I’ve always wanted to.”

“Let’s rent one then.” Kai pulled Liza toward the bikes.

“Which one do you like?”

“Wait a minute. Do you have a motorcycle license?” Liza demanded.

“I do.”

Liza batted her eyelashes. “Well, then, that cobalt one is pretty.”

Kai rented the bike and asked about helmets. The man behind the counter said, “No need.”

“Helmets aren’t required?” asked Kai.

“No. If you want, I let you use ‘em free. But no need.”

Turning to Liza, Kai asked, “Want a helmet?”

Liza ran her fingers through her chestnut hair. “Well, no.”

Kai grinned. “Then neither do I.”

Knowing they couldn’t get too lost on a forty-by-sixty-mile island, Kai and Liza roared out of Waikiki and up Pali Highway.

At the edge of the ocean on the other side, Kai swung left onto Kalaheo Avenue.

Staying as close to the sea as they could, they rode for miles, hair blowing wildly. In Kaaawa they pulled into a gravel lot and parked the bike. “Now, that’s what I call throttle therapy,”

said Kai. They sat on the restaurant’s lanai, and shared a shrimp cocktail while gazing at the frothy sloshing sea.

Shortly after re-embarking, Kai shouted over her shoulder,

“How do you say the name of this street we’re on?” She nodded toward a sign.

Squeezing Kai, Liza spoke into her ear. “Kamehameha Highway.” Clouds gathered, and mist cooled their skin. A wave splashed lightly onto the road ahead. Kai slowed for vehicles pulling in and out of a narrow parking strip, and Liza flinched as a large wave broke on the sand of Sunset Beach. The highway turned curvy, and the bike and its riders swayed rhythmically.

A road sign read, ‘Waimea Bay.’ Beyond that, a hand-stenciled poster read, ‘Eddie Would Go.’ Kai pulled into a paved lot, parked, and waited while Liza slid off the back seat. Kai toed down the kickstand, and stepped off the bike. Portable bleachers and a scaffolding-like structure stood on the beach. “Looks like a surfing competition,” Kai said. “Kendall and Kip surf whenever they get the chance.”

“Your oldest and youngest brothers. Doesn’t your other brother surf?”

“Nah,” said Kai. “Kirk doesn’t like sand. Or salt. Or sweat.”

“What about you?”

“I love sweat.” Kai grinned.

Liza swatted at her.

“Oh! You mean surfing. I’m not that good, but I do enjoy it.” Kai held her hands a foot or two apart. “Small waves.” Kai’s eyes widened. “See that?” She pointed at a big sign on the back of the scaffolding:

The Quiksilver Big Wave Invitational

In Memory of Eddie Aikau

“Who is Eddie Aikau?” asked Liza.

“He was a Hawaiian surfer and a lifeguard here at Waimea. And the Quikslver Invitational,” breathed Kai, “is a surfing competition that only happens when waves are humongous.” The ground shuddered and a WHUMP sounded.

“Woohoo! The waves are humongous!” Kai grabbed Liza’s hand, and pulled her toward the beach.

Kai and Liza ran onto the sand, and then stopped and stared.

In a bay the width of two football fields and flanked by fifty-foot cliffs, a monstrous swell rose up and crested, dwarfing the surfers scurrying beneath. It trembled in midair like the hand of God. Slowly the wave descended, closed its fingers around its humans, and slammed onto the beach.

Liza clapped her hands over her ears and faced Kai, eyes wide. “Wow,” she mouthed. Looking down at her feet, she whispered, “Felt like an earthquake.”

Kai held her breath and scanned the ocean. Exhaling, she said, “Good. Doesn’t look like anybody’s hurt.” She looked around. Hundreds of spectators stood or sat at a respectful distance, transfixed. They watched surfers paddling out. The faces of those paddling in reflected a variety of emotions: triumphant glee, bitter defeat, elation, anguish, pain, gratitude, and more.

Some time later, Kai took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. “Kendall and Kip would love this.” She turned to Liza and grinned. “Ready to head back?”

They rode up the center of the island, between fragrant fields of sugarcane and pineapple. As they passed Pearl Harbor, Liza yelled, “I’ve always wanted to see the Arizona Memorial.”

Keeping her eyes on the road, Kai turned her head and hollered, “Let’s do it! Tomorrow!”

After returning the Harley, Kai and Liza sat on the lanai of the hotel next door—the Royal Hawaiian—sipping Mai Tais. The shimmering sun burned slowly into the sea. The sky brightened into a rainbow of colors, and faded to pastels as darkness gathered.

“Heaven,” murmured Kai. “This is heaven.”

* * * *

On Monday, Liza and Kai toured Pearl Harbor and visited the Arizona Memorial, a sunken battleship that serves as shrine and tomb for more than a thousand servicemen killed there when World War II began on December 7, 1941. Afterward, deeply moved and contemplative, they returned to the hotel, and shared a quiet afternoon by the pool.

* * * *

On Tuesday, they took The Bus to Hanauma Bay, rented masks and fins, and went snorkeling. Paddling on the ocean’s surface, peering into the sea, they saw transparent trumpet fish, colorful parrot fish, and a bathtub-size sea turtle. They also saw several orange and black Humuhumunukunukuapuaa that an onshore sign had identified as Hawaii’s state fish.

At the concession stand, Liza bought ice cream bars and fish food. She and Kai ate the ice cream and waded back into the bay. Liza opened the fish food, and was immediately engulfed in a swarm of nibbling fish. She squealed, threw the container as far as she could, and sloshed ashore. Kai followed and fell onto the beach, holding her sides and laughing hysterically.

That night, after showering off sand and donning the dressiest clothes they had brought, they dined at Top of Waikiki.

With chopsticks, Liza lifted an ahi pupu (appetizer), and said,

“What do you think of Hawaii so far?”

“I’m on sensory overload.” Kai sipped her water. “This is the most awesomely gorgeous place I have ever been.”

Liza laughed. “Me, too. And I’ve been all over the world.”

She paused as the waiter delivered her Hawaiian snapper and Kai’s garlic rib eye steak. “Our holiday is almost half over. What would you like to do next?”

“Well.” Kai rotated her glass and watched the rippling water. “My favorite thing we’ve done is the motorcycle ride to Waimea. And much as I like to ride, that wasn’t the best part.

Those waves, the salty smell, the outrageous greenness.” A smile spread across her face. “I want more of that.”

Liza put her fork down. “Why don’t we cancel our reservations for the luau and that glider ride, and rent a car instead?”

Kai put her glass down. “Done!”

* * * *

Early Wednesday morning, Kai left Liza primping in the room. She walked a few blocks, and rented a red compact car.

As she drove back to the hotel, she speed-dialed Liza. “Almost there.”

Kai picked up Liza and drove back to the North Shore, past Waimea Bay, and into the little town of Haleiwa. She parked in a crowded lot next to a small square shop. She and Liza stood in a long line of tourists and locals, and shuffled through the doorway beneath a sign that read ‘Matsumoto’s Shave Ice.’

Twenty minutes later, shave ice in hand, they got back into the car. Kai spooned some of the colorful brew into her mouth.

“Mmm.” She swallowed. “Strawberry, orange, and lemon. Yum!”

Liza wrinkled her nose. “Coconut and mango mo’ bettah.”

Kai drove beyond Haleiwa, and continued around a bend and down Farrington Highway, following signs to Mokuleia.

Liza peered up through the windshield and pointed at the sky. “Ooh, Kai, look! Parachuters.”

Kai turned left at a ‘Dillingham Airfield’ sign. “This is where we had reservations for a ride in a glider plane.” She parked, and they got out and leaned against the car, heads back.

A pink and yellow parachute loomed above. As it approached, four dangling legs became visible. A thin screech grew into an ecstatic wail. The screaming woman wore jeans and sneakers, and the coveralls on the man behind her flapped noisily.

As the parachute neared the ground, it whipped through the air like a sail in high winds. “Hold up your legs!” hollered the man. Just before impact, he pulled hard on two lines, and the parachute tipped up like a landing bird. He touched down at a trot, and gracefully came to a stop, parachute billowing behind.

“Wow!” Kai’s eyes shone. “I want to try that. Sign says it’s tandem parachuting.”

“Now?” asked Liza.

“Nah.” Kai winked. “Next time.”

* * * *

For the next two days Kai and Liza savored the sensual beauty of Hawaii and sensually savored one another. They swam with sea turtles in the turquoise water of Lanikai. They hiked to Manoa Falls, stopping as a foot-long centipede undulated across the trail in front of them. They strolled through Haiku Gardens where they watched a tiny green and red hummingbird dart from flower to flower. The next day they visited Bishop Museum where they learned that there are no hummingbirds in Hawaii, and that they probably saw a sphinx moth in Haiku Gardens.

On New Year’s Eve, after returning the rental car and enjoying a leisurely dinner on the top floor of their hotel, Kai and Liza lay supine on the beach, head to head, watching a magnificent fireworks display. Kai reached up and stroked Liza’s hair. “I would dearly love to live here with you someday.”

“Mmm,” purred Liza. “That would be ever so nice.”

* * * *

On their last night in Hawaii, Kai and Liza slept sprawled across the king-size bed, fully occupying the space and sleeping soundly.

Chapter 11

During their flight home on New Year’s Day, Kai and Liza sat in adjoining seats, holding hands beneath Kai’s jacket. As their flight approached the mainland, an orange and red sunset receded into blackness. Liza turned away from the window and smiled. “That was the perfect ending for a beautiful vacation.”

“I’m just sorry it’s over.” In a whisper Kai continued,

“Having you all to myself in Hawaii may be the best thing that has ever happened to me.” They sat silently for a moment. “You know,” said Kai, “I adore that nickname you gave me. I’m thinking of using it permanently, maybe even changing it legally.”

Liza gave Kai a sidelong glance. “You are completely Kai to me now. It’s what I’ll be calling you, at least in private.” She paused. “It would be easier if you called yourself Kai, too. That way people won’t wonder why I have a pet name for you.”

Beneath the jacket, Kai squeezed Liza’s hand. “Is it so important what people think?”

Liza pulled back, and then slid her hand back into Kai’s. “It is if I’m going to be president. And I am.”

Kai leaned over and whispered, “Of course you are, babe.”

After a plane change and a taxi ride, Kai and Liza returned to Bellingham School of Law.

When they entered their dorm room, Liza sniffed the air.

“Hm. It got a little musty in here, closed up for so long.” She strode across the room, leaned over Kai’s desk, and opened the window. A chill January gust tossed the curtains.

They wordlessly unpacked, both listening to the soft patter of rain and thinking their own thoughts.

Kai finished unpacking, fell backward onto her bed, and lifted her arms above her head. Closing her eyes she said, “I am so tired. I could sleep for a week.”

“Oh, no, you don’t.” Starting at the foot of Kai’s bed, Liza slid her body along Kai’s until they were face to face. She deeply kissed Kai, lifted her head, and said huskily, “I love you.”

Kai wrapped her arms and legs around Liza. “And I you.”

* * * *

The next morning, they awoke in Kai’s bed. Grateful for one more day to regroup, they lovingly welcomed the day. Kai leaned on her elbow, and ran her fingers through Liza’s silky curls. “Liza?” She smiled into Liza’s eyes. “It was so nice sleeping with you in a big bed. How about we move our little beds together?”

Liza blinked. “What would the neighbors think?”

Kai drew back. “What do you mean?”

“Belinda and Sherry drop in on us all the time. And Jeannie and Nikki hang out here and study.”

“So?”

“What would they think? Really, Kai, what would they think if they saw our beds together?”

“That we love each other?”

Thrusting her arms into the air with each word, Liza said,

“My. Point. Exactly!”

Kai sighed. Looking at Liza, she crooned, “I was being facetious, love.” She kissed Liza’s forehead. “No one would assume we’re lovers. Women sleep together platonically all the time. If it worries you, we can tell them that we wanted more floor space.”

Liza stiffened “You and I…” She shook her head and cleared her throat. Leveling her gaze on Kai, she lowered her voice. “We’re going to have to figure out a way to keep this under control.”

Kai leaned back. “This? What this?”

Liza swung her legs off Kai’s bed and stood. “This! This thing we want to do all the time.”

Kai looked at her blankly.

“If we don’t control it, we risk our grades, graduation, and ultimately our careers.”

Kai’s mouth opened. She clamped it shut. Flaring her nostrils, she said tersely, “You mean your career.”

“Well of course I mean my career.” Liza stomped into the bathroom and slammed the door.

Numbly Kai gathered the clothes she and Liza wore in Hawaii, and carried them to the laundry room in the basement of Piedmont Hall. After filling and starting four machines, she trudged back upstairs.

Liza was gone.

* * * *

For the rest of the day, Kai vacillated between fitful bursts of studying and dormant bouts of brooding, alleviated by laundry.

She sat at her desk as darkness fell.

When it became too dark to read, Kai turned on her desk lamp and walked across the room. Just as she reached the switch for the overhead light, the door opened and Liza hurried in, nearly colliding with Kai.

Liza closed the door behind her, dropped her backpack, and rushed into Kai’s arms. “I’m so sorry,” she sobbed. “Let’s don’t ever fight again.”

Kai held Liza tightly and stroked her hair. She bent down and kissed her ear and whispered, “Sounds good to me.”

Liza wiped her eyes, and looked up at Kai. “Please don’t denigrate my aspirations, okay?”

“Understood,” said Kai. “Quite completely understood.”

* * * *

Later that month, following fall finals, Liza and Kai registered for spring semester. That night at their desks, they compared schedules and discovered that they again shared two classes—civil procedure and constitutional law.

“What shall we do for the long weekend?” asked Kai.

Liza clapped her hands. “How about Portland? I’ve never been. And I hear it’s the microbrew capital.”

“So now you’re a beer fan?”

Liza sniffed. “I like O’Malley’s Carlahan. But it’s the only microbrew I’ve tried.”

“All right. Portland it is.” Kai opened her laptop and did a search on hotels. “How about this?” She turned the computer around so Liza could see.

“Ooh, nice.” Liza smiled. “Looks a bit like our hotel in Hawaii.”

Kai repositioned the laptop and tapped some more. “We have reservations at Portland’s downtown Marriott for tomorrow night and the next.”

Liza stood and opened her closet. Pulling out a suitcase, she said, “Let’s pack, so we can leave first thing tomorrow.”

Kai tapped at the keyboard again. “Mapquest says it’s a two-hour drive. I’ll request early check-in at the hotel.”

* * * *

Liza and Kai awoke to Graceville’s typical January weather: clouds and rain. Kai was ready to go before Liza.

Pulling their suitcases out of Piedmont Hall, she opened a large umbrella, and dashed to the parking lot. In the ragtop Wrangler, she cranked up the heat, and drove to the dorm’s covered rear entrance. Minutes later Liza hopped in.

They ate breakfast at O’Malley’s, and headed north. Soon after merging onto I-5, Kai pointed at the sky ahead. Beneath the clouds, more than a dozen vultures circled in graceful arcs.

“Something’s dying or dead.”

“Hm,” said Liza. “Did you hear those local people behind us on the bus in Hawaii?”

“Coming back from Hanauma Bay?” Kai glanced at Liza and saw her nod. “I remember hearing pidgin, but I couldn’t understand much of it, and remember none of it.”

“Well, I didn’t understand all of it,” Liza said. “But I keep thinking about what the woman behind us said. It sounded like

‘mocky die dead.’ She said it real fast: ‘mocky-die-dead.’ And she said it just as the bus passed a flattened mongoose. Maybe it’s the locals’ way of saying that something has unquestionably and irreversibly expired.”

“It’s a trilogy, or completion, of sorts.” Kai gave Liza a sidelong look to see if she recognized the reference. Facing Kai, Liza stuck out her tongue. Kai guffawed.

After a silence, Kai said, “I told you about that Yosemite field trip with my Sac State photography class?”

“You said that your early-morning photographs were spectacular.”

“I’ll show them to you during spring break.” Kai eased the Jeep into the fast lane and cast Liza a grin. “Later that morning, several of us took a tour of Yosemite to get a sunlit view of what we had photographed. The bus driver was our tour guide, and at one point he went on about how something should really be done to save creatures like chipmunks and squirrels from becoming road-kill.” Kai sniffed. “Then he said, ‘What we need is a Society for the Prevention of Little Animal Tragedies.’”

Liza burst out laughing. “S.P.L.A.T.!”

“Exactly!”

* * * *

They checked into the hotel, quickly unpacked, and took a midday stroll around quaint and quirky downtown Portland. That afternoon they sat in a pub, and sipped samples of microbrew from small glasses.

“You’re an Obama fan, right?” asked Kai.

“I am.”

“As am I.” Kai picked up another glass and took a sip.

“What do you think about his tendency toward what’s traditionally been called socialism?”

“Ha! Funny you should ask.” Liza put down her glass. “It’s one of the few issues where I disagree with our president.” She lifted a corner of her mouth in a half-smile. “Or, I should say, with how our president is portrayed by the media.”

“So what’s your take on it?” asked Kai.

Liza smiled. “Well, there’s plenty of evidence indicating that socialism doesn’t work, from the failure of communism to the success of capitalism.”

“You consider capitalism a success?”

“For the most part, yes.”

“Except?” asked Kai.

“More than two hundred years ago, my favorite forefather of economics, Adam Smith, said that labor increases wealth.”

Kai smiled and put a hand over her mouth. “You have a favorite forefather of economics?”

“Yes.” Liza tossed her head. “I think every aspiring president should have one.” She grinned playfully.

Kai chuckled. “Okay. So, if labor increases wealth…”

“Then Americans need incentive to labor—to work.” Liza leaned forward. “If we’re sharing what we earn with folks who are subsisting at the physiological or even the safety level of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, then we’re carrying them. And it’s not even in their best interest.”

“No? You think it’s better to leave them where they lie?”

“I think we’re enabling them.” Liza leaned back, sipped an orange-hued brew, and continued. “I heard about a classroom experiment. A college professor told his students that all grades would be averaged, gave them their first exam, and everyone got a B. That made the studious students angry and the slackers happy. So everyone studied less—no incentive—and on the second test everyone got a D.”

Kai smiled and shook her head.

Liza frowned. “The students bickered and pointed fingers, and they all refused to study because no one wanted to carry the classmates that they blamed for the group’s failure.” Liza leaned forward and gazed at Kai. “They’re heavy. And they’re not my brothers.”

“Interesting. But it sounds suspiciously like urban legend.”

Liza’s eyes narrowed.

“For the sake of argument, let’s say it’s true.” Kai continued slowly, “That was a classroom experiment. Nobody’s life was at stake.” She swirled the beer in her glass. “Do you feel that folks who are truly in need are our brothers?”

Liza blinked. “Not the ones I’ve encountered.”

“I think at least some of them are.”

“What do you mean?” Liza leaned back in her chair.

“It’s true that basic human nature makes us want to get everything we can for as little as possible.” Kai cleared her throat. “It’s not a bad thing. In fact, it’s probably the foundation of invention and entrepreneurialism. The seemingly selfish incentives inherent in capitalism are powerful motivators.” Kai looked down and curled her fingers around a glass of amber ale.

“But there are times when upstanding, hardworking folk need a hand. One example is my Aunt Maxine.”

Pushing the glass away, Kai met Liza’s gaze. “My mom’s sister, when she was pregnant with my cousin Roger, lost her husband in a car wreck. She had to be hospitalized for some time in order to save the baby and herself. When she finally got out of the hospital, she had no job and no husband, no money and a hungry infant. Public assistance allowed her to feed herself and her baby until she found a job.”

“Well, your mother wouldn’t have let her sister starve.”

Kai tilted her head. “My mom was in college at the time and could barely feed herself. She and Aunt Maxine had no one else to turn to.” Kai looked at Liza, and her eyes softened.

“People in need are our brothers. And our sisters. We’re all connected under the skin.” She wiped condensation from a glass. “Maybe another example is us.”

“Us?”

“Yeah.” Kai smiled. “You and I come from different backgrounds and have different personalities. We don’t even share the same intelligence quotient. Although I know I’m incredibly smart, you, my maniacally brainy girlfriend, are off the chart.”

“Ha!”

“But we connect.” Kai grinned. “And I’m not just talking physical here, as awesome as that is.” She frowned slightly. “We connect in a way that is oddly reminiscent of the completion of

‘mocky-die-dead.’” Kai took a deep breath and spread her hands.

“If something happens to you, to whatever degree, big or small, I feel it.”

“Oh, yeah.” Liza clunked down her glass. “I grok that.”

“Grok!” Kai lifted a glass of dark beer and laughed.

“You’re a Heinlein fan? Yet another connection.”

* * * *

Kai and Liza returned to Bellingham refreshed and ready for spring semester. Halfway through it, they underwent another batch of midterm exams.

On the Saturday after midterms, giddy over the prospect of a week without classes and dazzled by the first sunshine in days, Kai and Liza removed the Jeep’s fabric top before embarking on spring break.

Wearing coats and gloves, they rolled across campus, quietly chatting as Kai observed the ten mile-per-hour speed limit.

When they reached highway speed, hair flying, they raised their voices to compensate for wind and a blaring Johnny Lang CD.

Chapter 12

Two hours into the road trip, Kai glanced at Liza. “I have a confession.”

Liza looked at her.

Kai swallowed. “When I was home during fall break, I told my family that you’re my girlfriend.”

Liza gasped. “You didn’t!”

Kai smiled sheepishly. “That was before I understood your need for secrecy.”

“Dammit Kai! How could you?” Liza shook her head. “Do you have any idea what this could do to my career? All it would take is an allegation from one of your family members to ruin my plans for the presidency.”

“I’m really sorry, Liza. I told them out of ignorance.” Kai sighed. “Since it’s already done, is there any way you can relax and enjoy a week ‘out of the closet,’ so to speak?”

“No! How can I relax and enjoy the potential devastation of all my hopes and dreams?”

Kai gave her a sidelong glance. “My family has known about my sexual orientation for almost as long as I have. They’re fine with it. And they’re anxious to meet you.”

Liza crossed her arms. “Take the next exit, Kai. I’m not going with you.”

Kai’s jaw dropped. She closed her mouth and clenched her teeth as she maneuvered the Jeep off the freeway. Parking in front of a convenience store, she faced Liza. “What are you going to do?”

Liza unbuckled her seatbelt and opened her door. “I’ll figure something out.”

Kai grabbed Liza’s arm. “No! I’m not leaving you here!”

She released her grip. “Please. Let’s talk about this. If you still want to go elsewhere, I’ll take you. Okay?”

Liza slowly pulled the door shut.

Kai exhaled. “My family is discreet. They don’t share family business with outsiders. They have never told anyone about my sexuality. To this day, only those that I tell know for sure that I’m gay.”

“How do you know that?”

“I guess I don’t know for sure. But I overheard a couple of conversations wherein my mom was subtly questioned, and she brushed off the questioner with a laugh or a change of subject.”

“What about your dad?”

“He’s at least as discreet as my mom, and quiet by nature.

He’s not about to say more than he has to, and he won’t tolerate nosiness.”

“How do you know your family will extend the same courtesy to me?”

“If, for no other reason, because they won’t risk implicating me.”

Liza inhaled deeply. “I would trust you with my life.” She looked pointedly at Kai. “And I am.” She re-buckled her seatbelt.

* * * *

Arriving at her parents’ house late Saturday afternoon, Kai saw a white Land Cruiser and Kip’s Volkswagen Bug parked in the driveway.

“Let me guess,” said Liza. “The orange car belongs to your baby brother.”

Kai grinned. “You got it.” She pulled their suitcases out of the back. The front door flew open, and Ken hurried to the Jeep.

Kai hugged her dad. “Papa, I’d like you to meet Liza.”

Extending her hand, Liza said, “Pleased to meet you, Mr.

Hamilton.”

“The pleasure is all mine, Liza. Please call me Ken.”

As they walked into the house, Kai smelled apple pie and baby powder. Dropping their suitcases at the foot of the stairs, she grabbed Liza’s hand and pulled her toward the den.

“Where’s my niece?”

Kendall rose from the sofa and strode across the den.

Hugging Kai, he smiled over her shoulder. “You must be Liza.”

After introductions, Kai said to Kendall, “Hey, is that your Land Cruiser outside?”

“It is. Had to upgrade.”

“And where is the upgrade impetus?”

Kendall stepped back, turned toward the sofa, and gestured with both hands. “Liza, meet my wife Gwen.” His voice warmed. “And asleep in her mama’s arms is three-month-old Kendra.”

While everyone gazed at her, Kendra slept on, wispy yellow hair gathered in a pink bow. She parted her lips and revealed a dimple in her left cheek.

With a feathery touch, Kai stroked the baby’s face.

“Sweetpea,” she breathed “You are beautiful.”

Gwen beamed. “Isn’t she?”

Behind Kendall, someone forced a cough. Kendall turned.

“Liza, this is Kirk. He flew in from Atlanta last night, and rode up with us.”

Liza smiled into Kirk’s eyes and shook his hand. “Pleased to meet you, Kirk. Kai said you’re only home for a few days.”

Shifting awkwardly, Kirk said, “I fly back to Atlanta on Monday.”

“Did I hear someone come in?” Marianne trilled as she walked into the den. Throwing a towel over her shoulder, she hugged Kai, and then Liza. “Welcome, Liza. We’re so happy you’re here. Please make yourself completely at home.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Hamilton.”

“Marianne. Please call me Marianne.”

* * * *

After dinner, Gwen carried Kendra upstairs. Following the local television news, Ken and Marianne said good-night. Kai and her brothers lay sprawled across sofas and floor, and Liza sat cross-legged on a chair, all watching The Tonight Show.

When the show ended, Kendall stood and stretched. “I’m beat. See you all in the morning.”

“Yeah, me, too,” said Kip.

Kendall and Kip trudged up the stairs. Kirk clicked off the television and stood.

Liza turned toward him. “You’re working on a master’s?”

“Yep. Public health.” Kirk sat back down.

“What do you plan to do with it?”

Kirk lowered his voice. “Politics.”

“Politics?”

“Government service. There is no nobler cause.”

Kai draped her arm over Liza’s shoulder and pulled her close. “Come on, Liza. Let’s get some sleep.”

Kirk coughed. “That’s the rub.”

Liza batted her eyelashes. “Rub?”

“You two,” said Kirk.

“You have got to be kidding.” Kai shook her head. “You are not going to do this, Kirk. Not here. Not now. Take it up with me later if you must.”

Kirk held up his hands. “I’m just saying.” His hands dropped and he leaned forward, eyes blazing. “When you return to men—and both of you will—I don’t want this fling of yours hurting my chances for election.”

Kai gritted her teeth, took a deep breath, and looked Kirk in the eye. “Did we grow up in the same house? Good God, what planet are you from?”

Kirk looked Liza up and down. “This one is way too hot to waste on a woman.”

Kai stiffly stood. “Good night, your Kirkness.” She took Liza’s hand, and led her out of the room and up the stairs.

Liza closed Kai’s door and leaned against it. “Dammit!”

she hissed. “Your whole family is not okay with your gayness.”

Kai crossed her arms. “Everyone else is. Kirk hardly counts.” She turned away. “Witness one of the many reasons he’s my least favorite sibling.”

Liza smirked. “Kirk is your hottest sibling.”

Kai’s mouth fell open. “No way! Kendall and Kip are much better looking.”

“Those ears of Kirk’s are adorable. And his eyes are oh, so dreamy.”

“Have you always been attracted to bad boys?”

Liza blushed. “Hm.”

* * * *

The next morning, Kai awoke and gazed at Liza as she slept. The room grew brighter. Liza’s eyes fluttered and she smiled sleepily.

Kai grinned and threw back the covers. “Hey. It’s about time you woke up, gorgeous. Smell that coffee?” She stood and walked to the dresser, and pulled out jeans and a T-shirt.

Still in bed, Liza stretched her arms above her head and let them drop, one hand propped against the headboard. Closing her eyes, she murmured, “Mmm. Tell that quirky Kirky brother of yours h’lo, wouldya?”

Kai jumped onto the bed and tickled Liza until Liza squealed for mercy.

“Okay, okay,” Liza gasped as she wriggled from beneath Kai. “I’ll tell him myself.”

Liza and Kai walked downstairs and into the kitchen.

Kendall and Kip sat at the table, devouring hotcakes and sausage.

Marianne stood at the stove, spatula poised. “Good morning, girls. Would you like eggs with your hotcakes?”

“Mama, that sounds wonderful.” Kai squeezed Marianne’s shoulder and kissed her forehead.

“Where’s Kirk?” asked Liza. Kai shot her a look.

Kip spoke around a mouthful of hotcakes. “Sleepin’.”

Moments after Kai and Liza sat, Kirk strolled into the kitchen. Pulling back the chair next to Liza, he said, “May I?”

“Of course.” Liza smiled.

Sitting across the table, Kai watched bemusedly.

Papa Ken sat in his chair at the head of the table as Marianne brought platters piled high with hotcakes and scrambled eggs. After taking her seat across from Ken, Marianne looked at Liza. “Did you sleep well, hon?”

Liza smiled. “I did. Thank you.”

Kirk smirked. “Wish I could’ve watched.”

“Kirk!” scolded Ken.

Kirk took a bite of eggs and then looked up, eyes bright.

He swallowed and said cloyingly, “Liza? How do you feel about the likelihood that Jeb Bush will win the presidency next year?”

Liza laughed. “You’re kidding. Right?”

“Surely you’re not an Obama fan.” Kirk gazed pointedly at Liza. “He doesn’t have a chance in hell for reelection.”

Liza returned the gaze. “Surely you’re not an advocate of yet another incompetent Bush in the White House.”

Kirk shook his head. “George W. did an excellent job of kicking some Arab ass. Obama is so in-bed with them, he’s using his little head to address foreign policy.”

“Then why do you suppose he won the Nobel Peace Prize a couple years ago?” Liza raised an eyebrow.

“Ha!” Kirk put down his fork. “That’s another example of Obama’s foreign promiscuity.”

Liza took a sip of orange juice. “You have to admire Obama for pulling America out of the biggest financial downturn since the Great Depression.” She tossed her head. “You’re reaping the benefits, too. Aren’t you at least a little grateful?”

“Obama doesn’t deserve the credit,” Kirk scoffed. “George W. signed the Economic Stimulus Act before he left office.

Obama had to get ‘er done, or risk lynching.”

After a stunned silence, Kai interjected, “Oh, give it a rest already. Your crazy Kirkness is showing.”

Kirk turned and looked disdainfully at Kai. “Did your bleeding-heart liberalism rub off on your girlfriend or what?”

“Hey!” Kendall clapped his hands. “There are enough of us to play touch football. Anybody game?”

“I am,” said Kip.

Kendall wiped his mouth. “And I think Gwen will play, if Mom wouldn’t mind watching Kendra.”

“Oh, I’d love to,” chirped Marianne.

After breakfast, Kai stood and slid her chair under the table. “Let’s clean up before we play. Mama, you go relax, okay?”

Working quickly, the siblings and Liza cleaned the kitchen in mere minutes. Ken remained at the table, proudly watching his progeny. As they finished, he said, “It rained yesterday, and the back yard is a bit muddy. You’ll probably want to wear old clothes.”

“I already am,” quipped Kip. “Hey, Dad? Aren’t you going to play?”

“No, I’ve got some work to do. You kids have fun.”

Kai and Liza started upstairs to change clothes, followed by Kirk and Kendall. As she reached the landing, Kai turned and caught Kirk gazing with gleaming eyes at Liza’s backside.

Looking up, Kirk met Kai’s eyes and smirked. Kai glowered down at him.

Minutes later, six young adults gathered in the back yard.

They stood under an oak tree at the edge of an expansive lawn.

Kirk rubbed his hands together. “Boys against girls?”

“Nah,” said Kendall. “Too one-sided.”

Kai winked. “You don’t want Kendra knowing her daddy and uncles got their butts whipped by girls?”

“Something like that.” Kendall laughed. “How about you and I choose sides? You first.”

Kai tapped her tooth with an index finger. “Let’s see.

Hmm. Okay then. Kip? You’re on my team.”

Kendall chose Kirk, Kai Liza, and Kendall Gwen.

Gwen faked a pout. “Not sure I like being the last one chosen.”

Kendall tousled Gwen’s hair, and she grinned.

Kai won the coin toss, and chose to receive.

“Okay.” Kendall joggled the football between his hands.

“Ground rules. A tackle is a tap with both hands at or below the waist. Each team gets three shots at the goal before the other team gets the ball.” He pointed down. “My team’s goal is here.”

He turned. “Gwen and Kirk? Let’s strategize.” Kendall’s team walked to the opposite side of the lawn and huddled.

After Kendall’s team kicked off, Kai, Kip, and Liza stood in a circle, arms draped over each other’s shoulders, looking down.

“Kip, you’re quarterback. Liza, you hike the ball, then run and try to stay open for a pass. I’ll cover you and act as pass alternate.”

Lifting her head, Kai looked at Liza. “Kirk is competitive, and has been known to hurt people in the heat of the moment.”

Kip snorted.

Kai smiled tightly. “Just be careful.” Her smile broadened.

“Other than that, let’s have fun.” Kai stepped back and raised her hands, and Kip and Liza raised theirs. Together they clapped once, and then walked to the center of the lawn where Kendall’s team waited.

Kendall tossed the ball to Kai, and Kai handed it to Liza.

Liza moved her legs apart, planted her feet, and bent forward.

Placing the ball on the ground, Liza remained bent with both hands on the ball.

Kai stood to Liza’s right, facing Kirk. Kip squared his shoulders and anchored his feet. Quietly he said, “One, two, three, hike.” Liza hiked the ball and sprinted forward. Kai jumped in front of Kirk and crossed her arms, bobbing back and forth.

She turned just as Kip launched the ball in her direction. Kai caught the ball with the tips of her fingers, drew it in, and turned to face the goal.

Before Kai could even take a step, Kirk thrust his fists into the small of her back and shoved her forward. Snatching the ball from her arms, he snarled, “I got you back there.” He strode back several feet and placed the ball on the ground.

“One down,” yelled Kendall.

Kai turned to her team members and mouthed, “Same thing again.” She lobbed the football to Liza. Liza placed the ball on the ground, wiggled into position, and hiked. She straightened and ran. Kirk shot ahead of her, with Kai in close pursuit. Liza sidestepped and turned to face Kip just as he hurled the ball into her arms. Hugging the ball, Liza turned toward the goal, and collided with Kirk.

Throwing his arms around Liza, Kirk twisted sideways and lifted her. He pulled backward and fell to the ground with Liza on top of him. Putting his lips on her ear, he whispered, “You are so hot,” and gave her earlobe a quick suck.

Gasping, Liza leaped off of Kirk. She stomped back to Kai and Kip, her face red and slick with sweat. Through gritted teeth she said, “Sorry, I got tagged.”

“No problem,” said Kai. “Are you okay?”

“Nothing hurt but my pride.”

“Two down,” yelled Kendall.

The game progressed, and Kendall’s team won by six points.

* * * *

Before dawn the next morning, Marianne drove Kirk to the airport.

Kai and Liza emerged midmorning. In the kitchen they found Kendall pacing and patting a fussing baby.

“Hiya bro,” said Kai. “Is Sweetpea hungry?”

Kendall held the baby at arm’s length and looked at her screwed-up face. “Gwen just fed her.” He pulled Kendra close, and patted her back. “Gas, I think.”

A big burp erupted from Kendra’s mouth.

“Wow!” Kai grinned. “In case you had any doubt, that kid is clearly yours.”

Kendall laughed. “She does sound like a Hamilton already, doesn’t she?”

“Would you mind if I held her?” asked Liza. As Kendall passed the baby, Liza carefully placed a hand behind Kendra’s head.

“She’s already holding her head up,” Kendall said proudly.

“You don’t need to support her neck.”

Liza held Kendra in the crook of her arm and gazed into the baby’s blue eyes. “You can hold your head up?” Liza cooed.

“What a smart girl you are!”

Kendra gave Liza a gummy grin and then yawned.

Liza began to walk around the kitchen. Gently rocking Kendra, she softly hummed a lullaby. Kendra’s eyes drooped, her face relaxed angelically, and she slept. Liza stopped humming, but continued to pace and rock.

Some time later, Kendall said quietly, “When you’ve had enough of her, I’ll take her upstairs.”

Liza looked up, eyes shining. “I could hold her forever. But maybe she’ll get more rest in bed.” She carefully handed the baby to Kendall.

* * * *

After spring break, Kai and Liza returned to Graceville, finished their first year of law school with stellar grades, and spent the summer at their respective homes in California and New York.

Throughout the summer, they exchanged daily text messages and e-mails, and talked by phone at least once a week.

In August, Kai sent an e-mail:

Hiya Liza,

I heard from Jeannie. She’s at her parents’ house in Graceville, and wants us to share a house with Nikki and her.

Attached are the graphics she sent.

Cute house. The second one shows the layout: two master suites on either side of a common living room and kitchen. It’s on Carlsbad Court, three blocks from Bellingham, and furnished. The back yard has a heated pool.

What do you think?

Love,

Kai

An hour later Kai’s phone beeped, and she read Liza’s text message:

tell j yes xo

Chapter 13

On the Friday before orientation weekend, the four women gathered in the living room of the house on Carlsbad.

“Isn’t this great?” bubbled Nikki. “Jeannie, you made an excellent choice.” She grabbed Kai’s hand. “Come look. Let’s decide who gets which bedroom.” Nikki led Kai down a hallway, and Jeannie and Liza followed. “The rooms are identical except that one has a king-size bed and the other has two doubles.”

Nikki stopped in the doorway of a room containing one large bed, and looked up at Kai. “You and Liza should have this one.

Jeannie and I are used to sleeping on a twin, and will be happy in one of the doubles.”

“That won’t work,” Liza said bluntly.

Nikki looked back at her. “No? Why not?”

“The question is why.” Liza narrowed her eyes. “Why on God’s green earth would Kai and I want to share a bed?”

“Hey.” Kai spread her hands. “Liza and I have been sleeping in twin-size beds for a year now.” She winked. “Double beds will feel like a spatial promotion.”

* * * *

The next day as the housemates unpacked, the

temperature rose into the nineties. Kai emptied her last box onto the bedroom floor, wiped sweat from her forehead, and turned to Liza. “I’m jumping into that pool the minute I finish here.”

Liza gave her a tired smile. “I’m right behind you.”

Half an hour later, Kai slipped into a yellow bikini, and Liza pulled on a black JUICY one-piece. Grabbing towels, they walked into the living room.

Jeannie wolf-whistled. Both Nikki and Jeannie were sprawled on the brown sofa, legs intertwined and wearing bikinis.

Kai laughed. “I see we all had the same idea.”

Jeannie untangled her legs and sat up. “We were heading to the pool and got sidetracked.” She waggled her eyebrows at Nikki.

Liza turned on her heel and stalked across the room. She slid open the glass door, dropped her towel onto a patio chair, and dove into the pool.

Kai stepped out onto the deck. “How’s the water?”

“Refreshing!” Liza treaded water and nodded her head.

Kai dove in next to Liza, and Jeannie and Nikki flanked them with cannonballs. The four friends splashed and swam for some time, and then Jeannie closed her eyes. “Marco!”

The other three dove away from her. “Polo!” they called.

Jeannie lunged toward the closest voice.

Nikki slipped out of the pool and jumped in next to Jeannie, splashing her. Jeannie flailed her arms, but Nikki slipped away.

“Marco!” Again Jeannie lunged, this time snagging a bikini bottom. She pulled down, slid her hand along a smooth cheek, and opened her eyes.

“Hey!” Kai turned in the water and pulled up her swimsuit.

Jeannie giggled. Kai looked around, and saw Liza on the other side of the pool, floating on her back. “Where’s Nikki?”

“Inside, I guess.”

Moments later, Nikki came through the doorway carrying a tray of beers. She put the tray on the table, went back inside, and returned with a bowl of chips and another of dip.

* * * *

The friends stayed in or near the pool until sundown. “Brr.”

Nikki crossed her arms. “Suddenly it’s cold.”

Liza stood. “I’m going to get an early start on studying.”

Kai followed Liza into their room. Closing the door, she said, “I am so glad our desks are in here. I can ravage you under the guise of schoolwork.”

Liza looked at her with sparkling eyes.

Kai bent down, scooped Liza into her arms, and carried her into the bathroom. Stepping into the spacious shower, she placed Liza on her feet, and in one swift move pulled her JUICY

swimsuit to the ground.

Pinning Liza’s arms against the wall, Kai kissed her open mouth and roughly penetrated it with her tongue. Moving Liza’s arms up, she held them both against the wall with one hand while she slid her other hand down Liza’s neck. Cupping a breast, she bent down and kissed its stiff nipple. Liza moaned softly and bit her lip.

Kai slipped her hand down Liza’s stomach and between her legs. She pushed her fingers between Liza’s lips, and slid them slowly in and out. As Liza’s body responded, Kai increased the rhythm. Liza’s knees buckled, and she dangled from her pinned hands, breathing heavily.

Kai wrapped her free arm around Liza’s waist and lowered her onto a shelf. Still holding Liza’s hands up, she pushed them back against the wall and said, “Don’t move.” She turned and removed the showerhead from its cradle, started the water, and switched the flow to a pulsating stream.

While the water warmed, she turned back to Liza, pushed her legs between Liza’s knees, and moved Liza’s legs apart, exposing her sex. Bending down, she kissed Liza’s mouth, stroked and teased her nipples, and lowered the showerhead.

Focusing the flow between Liza’s legs, Kai slowly moved the showerhead closer. Making contact, she slipped it between Liza’s lips, and slid it forth and back.

Liza gasped and her arms dropped. Gripping fistfuls of Kai’s hair, she arched her back and stifled another moan.

Kai nibbled her way from Liza’s mouth to her breasts.

Sucking a nipple into her mouth, she moved her free hand into the stream of water, found Liza’s sweet spot, and tugged it rhythmically. Liza shuddered, and Kai increased the pressure and cadence. When Liza began to come, Kai slowed the rhythm and lengthened the strokes.

Liza’s body eventually went limp. Kai kissed her, and washed her, and took her to bed.

* * * *

The next morning, Kai and Liza emerged from their bedroom to a quiet house. Walking to the kitchen, Kai said, “How about we make breakfast for Jeannie and Nikki?” She grinned at Liza and opened the refrigerator. Liza scrubbed potatoes and began peeling them. Before long the table bore a feast of scrambled eggs and sausage, sliced pineapple and hash browns, bagels and fresh coffee.

Wearing a short pink nightgown and bunny slippers, Nikki shuffled into the kitchen. She sniffed the air and smiled sleepily.

“Smells yummy.”

Liza rubbed her hands together. “We made breakfast for you two. Shall we put Jeannie’s on a tray so you can give it to her in bed?”

“Give me what in bed?” Standing in the doorway, Jeannie winked.

* * * *

After breakfast, still in their sleeping clothes, the housemates gathered in the living room. Nikki switched on the floor lamp, started a Pink CD, and sat on the brown sofa next to Jeannie. Leaving her bunny slippers on the floor, she lay back and rested her small bare feet in Jeannie’s lap.

Slowly stroking Nikki’s toes, Jeannie said, “Thank you, ladies, for a delicious Sunday brunch.”

Kai flopped onto the end of the green sofa, jostling Liza who sat on the other end. “Our pleasure,” said Kai. Leaning back against the arm of the sofa, she beamed at Liza.

Jeannie took Nikki’s left foot in both hands and began to massage it.

Nikki groaned. “Oh, man.” She rolled her head. “Jeannie gives the best foot-rubs in the world.”

Two or three songs later, Jeannie gently laid Nikki’s right foot on the sofa and said, “You’re all rubbed up, sweetums.” She smiled at Kai and Liza. “Who’s next?”

Nikki stood and stepped forward. “Liza? You should try it.

You look tense.” Nikki swiveled her hips. “A rub would relax you.”

“Um.” Liza blinked. “I’ll pass. Thanks.”

Jeannie gazed at Kai and smiled. “How about you?”

“Alas.” Kai wiggled her toes. “My feet are terribly ticklish.”

“Oh, yeah?” Nikki leaped onto the sofa between Liza and Kai, and grabbed Kai’s foot.

Kai stood and scooped up shrieking Nikki. Laughing and tickling Nikki’s stomach, Kai carried her across the room and set her down next to Jeannie.

As Kai returned to her seat, the CD started a new track.

Nikki hummed along to Pink’s “U and Ur Hand.” At the chorus, she and Jeannie broke into song.

When the CD ended, Liza stood, selected one by Josh Groban, and started it. She returned to her end of the green sofa, crossed her legs, and arranged her robe so that it covered them.

Minutes later Jeannie asked, “Have you seen the property law textbook? It’s enormous!”

“Haven’t bought my books yet,” said Nikki.

Liza leaned forward. “I started reading the textbook for environmental law. It’s actually quite interesting.”

Nikki snorted. “Now that’s hard to believe. Are we in law school or what? Property law. Environmental law. Sheesh.”

* * * *

When the music ended, the housemates sat in soporific silence. A fat fly strafed by. After bouncing off the floor lamp, it buzzed against the glass door. All eyes followed as it zoomed across the room and around the corner.

Liza sighed. “Sometimes I so yearn to soar like a bird that I’d settle for life as a housefly just to get the flavor of it.”

Gazing at Liza, Kai’s eyes softened.

* * * *

The following month, Liza attained law review. Starting as a staff member, she soon earned promotion to editor of The Bellingham Law Review.

* * * *

Kai and Liza spent fall break of their second year of law school at their respective parents’ homes. On the last Sunday of November, they returned to Graceville.

The next morning, as they dressed for class, Liza said,

“Kai? Want to come home with me for Christmas?”

Kai stared at her. “Well, I’d rather not spend it away from you.” She paused. “But are your parents okay with it?”

Looking at her reflection in the full-length mirror, Liza straightened her dress and smoothed her hair. “My dad wants to meet you.”

“Does he now?”

Liza turned toward Kai. “I told him I want to bring my roommate home, and he agreed.”

“Roommate.”

“Yes. Roommate.”

“Your parents don’t know about us?”

Liza frowned. “Of course not.”

“What does your mom think?”

Liza turned back to the mirror. “About?”

“About my spending holiday break with her family.”

“It’s not up to her.” Liza pursed her lips.

Kai gazed quizzically at Liza. “I thought your mom ruled the roost.”

Liza gave Kai a sharp look. “My dad is the last word in my family.”

Chapter 14

The following month, as their flight approached Albany, Kai looked out the window at the snowy landscape. “How far are we from your parents’ house?”

“Schenectady is less than twenty miles from the Albany airport.” Liza pulled her bag from under the seat in front of her.

After deplaning, Liza led the way to ground transportation, and they scooted into the back seat of a taxicab.

Buckling her seatbelt, Kai asked, “Do your parents ever pick you up from the airport?”

“My dad works weekdays. And on Fridays my mother frantically prepares for Saturday.”

“Even two days before Christmas?”

“Especially two days before Christmas,” Liza said firmly.

“Tomorrow the church is putting on a Christmas Eve service and afternoon feast, and my mother has her hands in all of it.”

Kai giggled. “Sounds messy.”

The cabdriver stopped in front of a gray and white two-story house, wheels crunching on ice, and Liza handed him a few bills. She unlocked the front door and called, “Mother, we’re home.” No answer.

Liza and Kai pulled off their winter coats and hung them in a closet. “My room’s up here.” Liza led the way upstairs and into a spacious bedroom. A king-size bed stood in the center of the room, covered in blankets and pillows of various shades of blue, haloed by a lacy white canopy.

“Nice!” said Kai.

“I’ve had this bed since I started walking.”

“Big bed for a little girl.”

“Last year I added a down mattress.” Liza flung herself backward onto the bed. She sank into its cushy surface and patted the spot next to her. “Check it out.”

Kai crawled on and collapsed next to Liza. “Mm hmm.”

They lay in silence for a moment.

A door opened and closed downstairs.

Liza slid off the bed and stood. “Mother, we’re up here,”

she called. She stepped to the door and gazed down at her mother at the foot of the stairs.

Judith gazed back and put her hands on her hips. “We?”

Liza’s jaw dropped. She stammered, “Uh, Dad told me I could bring home my roommate. Um. Didn’t he tell you?”

“No, he did not.” Judith scowled. “How inconsiderate of you, Elizabeth, making more work for me during my busiest time of year.”

“But Mother,” said Liza pleadingly. “It won’t be more work.”

“Of course it will.”

“I’ll take care of it!” Liza turned and looked at Kai helplessly, and then turned back to her mother.

Judith’s nostrils flared. “Is your guest in your room, Elizabeth?”

Liza nodded.

Judith looked down and shook her head. “Aren’t you going to introduce us?”

Kai strolled out of the bedroom and stood next to Liza.

“Hello, Mrs. Sterling. I’m Kai Hamilton.” She forced herself to smile.

“Pleased to meet you. Make yourself at home.” Judith turned. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m taking supplies to the church.”

“Do you need help, Mother?”

“No, no. No.” Judith walked purposefully down the hall.

Kai and Liza turned and stared at each other. Raising her eyebrows, Kai mouthed, “Wow.”

Liza clapped a hand over her own mouth and pulled Kai back into her room. She closed the door and leaned against it, giggling quietly.

Kai wrapped her arms around Liza and hugged her hard.

“Honey, honey, honey. You have got yourself one tough mama.”

“Ha!” Liza wiped at her eyes. “Ya think?” She stepped back and sighed. “She does have a lot to be angry about.”

Kai threw her arms into the air. “And that justifies…?” She took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. Squeezing Liza’s shoulders, she said, “I admire you for sticking up for your family.

And I apologize for making it necessary.” She kissed Liza’s mouth.

Liza stepped back and tilted her head. “My mother just left. I heard her car drive away.” She took Kai’s hand. “Let me show you the house.”

Kai stood still. “Liza? I’m not afraid of your mother. Don’t try to save me from her, okay?”

Liza grinned.

As Liza led her out of the bedroom, Kai continued. “And don’t worry. I’ll be civil. It’ll be good practice for the courtroom.”

“Handling my mother is excellent practice for the courtroom.” Liza laughed. “And probably for the presidency, too.”

* * * *

At eight o’clock that night, Kai and Liza still had the house to themselves. “Are you getting hungry yet?” asked Liza.

Kai looked at her watch. “It’s only five in Graceville. But yeah, a little.”

Liza made sandwiches. They ate at the table, and then watched television in the media room.

Hearing the click of a door, Liza stood. She tiptoed to the doorway, and peered down the hall. A smile spread across her face. “Daddy!” She turned and beckoned Kai. “Come meet my dad.”

Kai followed Liza to the kitchen, and watched her reach up and hug her father.

Liza turned toward Kai. “Dad, this is my roommate, Kai Hamilton. Kai? Meet my dad, Lawrence Sterling.”

Lawrence’s smile transformed his face from handsome to dazzling. He took Kai’s hand in both of his. “It’s so nice to finally meet you, Kai. Beth raves about you.”

Kai grinned. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, too, sir.”

Putting an arm around his daughter, Lawrence pulled her close. The door between the kitchen and garage opened behind them.

Judith walked in, glanced around, and gazed at Lawrence.

“I see you’ve met…” She frowned.

“Kai,” Liza interjected. “Yes. Dad met Kai.”

Judith lifted a corner of her mouth. “Anybody need anything before I head to bed?”

Lawrence and Liza spoke simultaneously. “No.”

Judith stared at Lawrence a moment longer, and then turned away. “Good night then.”

Lawrence put his hand over his mouth and yawned. “If you kids don’t mind, I think I’ll toddle off, too.” He kissed the top of Liza’s head.

“Good night, Daddy.” Liza and Kai watched Lawrence climb the stairs, and listened as he trudged down the hall.

Kai whispered, “Your parents don’t share a bedroom?”

“Do yours?”

Kai blinked. “Well, yes. They share a bedroom and a bed.”

Liza smiled wryly. “I’m the only living evidence that my parents ever slept together.”

* * * *

The next morning, Kai awoke in Liza’s luxuriously soft canopied bed, naked legs intertwined with Liza’s. Stroking Liza’s face, she kissed her soft lips, leaned back, and gave Liza a satisfied smile. “Happy Christmas Eve, my love.”

Some time later, they walked downstairs, and found Lawrence in the kitchen. He looked up and beamed. “You girls sleep well?”

Liza stood on tiptoe and kissed her dad’s cheek. “We did.”

Pouring coffee for herself and Kai, she asked, “Did Mother already leave for church?”

“Apparently so.” Lawrence scooped eggs onto a plate, added bacon, and handed the plate to Kai. “Help yourself to potatoes.” They ate at the kitchen table.

After the meal, Lawrence pushed back his chair and stood. “The Jets and Raiders are facing off this afternoon.

Anybody interested in watching with me?”

Kai’s eyes brightened. “I’m a die-hard Oakland Raiders fan.”

“Oh, you like bad boys, then.” Lawrence winked. “Well, I’m a die-hard New York Jets fan.” He looked at Liza. “How about you, Beth? I know you’re not much into football.”

“I’m a die-hard butts fan.” Liza looked down and blushed.

“Sorry, Daddy.”

Lawrence laughed. “Sounds like we’ve all got a stake in this game.” He stood and carried empty plates into the kitchen.

“Kickoff’s at two. Meet you in the media room.” He walked down the hall.

“Where are you off to?” asked Liza.

“Just to my office. I’ve got some work to do.”

“Dad? May I borrow the Lexus for a couple of hours? I want to give Kai a tour of Schenectady.”

“Sure.” Lawrence reached into his pocket, and tossed Liza the keys.

As Liza and Kai stepped into the garage, Kai stopped.

“Wait a minute. Shouldn’t we clean up the kitchen first?”

“Ingrid will be here soon.” Liza slapped the garage-door button, and grinned as the door rose. “My mother had a cow about employing someone to work on Sabbath. But Dad insisted.

See? When something matters to my dad, he gets his way.”

Liza eased out of the driveway and headed toward downtown Schenectady. She drove along the streets of the Stockade Historic District with its magnificently restored two-hundred-year-old homes, and then through the campus of Union College—the oldest planned college in the United States. She found parking near the center of town, and the couple donned their coats and strolled along snow-dusted streets past City Hall.

They wandered in and out of shops along State and Jay Streets, and ate gourmet soup and homemade bread at Ambition Cafe.

Back at home, Liza pulled into the driveway, and waited as the garage door opened. Glancing at the dashboard clock she said,

“It’s almost two. Let’s go watch somebody kick someone’s ass.”

As they stepped from the garage into the kitchen, Kai said, “It’s interesting that you’re intrigued by the asses of men.”

Liza shrugged. “Before I met you, I was a fan of all male anatomy.” Her hand flew to her mouth, and she peered around the room. Seeing no Dad, she continued more quietly. “I still have a healthy aesthetic appreciation.”

Kai grinned. “Wel , let’s go feed your eyes some candy, then.”

* * * *

After the Raiders won the game, Kai high-fived Liza and extended her hand to Lawrence.

Shaking Kai’s hand, Lawrence said, “Close game. Good fun watching it with you two.”

“Anybody want to play Scrabble?” asked Liza.

They set up the board at the kitchen table, and Liza won the first game. Near the end of the second, Lawrence played the word ‘sequels,’ earning a fifty-point bonus and exuberant congratulations.

The door from the garage opened, and laughter ceased at the sight of Judith. Grimly, Judith placed a bag on the kitchen counter, and began unpacking it.

“Merry Christmas Eve, Mother,” said Liza.

“Same to you, Elizabeth. And to the rest of you too.”

Judith sighed.

“How was the feast?” asked Lawrence.

“It went well. These are some of the leftovers. I wish you and Elizabeth and—Kai?—Kai had come to at least the church service.” Judith sniffed. “You can lead a horse to water…” Her voice trailed off. After folding the bag, she rubbed her forehead.

“I feel a migraine coming on. I’m going to go lie down.”

“Can I get you anything?” asked Lawrence.

“No. Thanks. I just need to rest.”

A few minutes later, Lawrence won the Scrabble game.

He and Liza and Kai quietly stored the game, ascended the stairs, and went to their rooms.

* * * *

The next morning, Kai and Liza emerged at eight. Walking into the kitchen, Liza said, “It feels like no one else is here.” She opened the door to the garage and peered in. “My dad’s car is gone, but Mother’s mini-van is still here.” Frowning, she said, “I’d better check on her.”

While Liza walked down the hall, Kai sat at the kitchen table. A shaft of sunshine streamed through the window and onto her face. She closed her eyes, absorbing its warmth.

Liza returned. “Mother’s still sick.” She poured juice into a cup and spooned yogurt into a bowl, and carried them back down the hall.

Lawrence walked in from the garage, holding a thick newspaper. “Merry Christmas, Kai.” He smiled. “Why are you all alone?”

“Liza is in her mom’s room.”

“Judith is still sick then?”

Kai nodded.

“Sometimes these things last for days. She probably won’t be able to get out of bed, much less prepare Christmas dinner.”

Lawrence pursed his lips. “Judith cooks by heart—no written recipes—so I can’t begin to take over.”

Liza came back into the kitchen and sat at the table.

“Mother is quite sick, and wants to be left alone.”

Lawrence opened a drawer and pulled out a phone directory. “I’ll try to find a restaurant that serves Christmas dinner.” He thumbed through the pages.

Kai stood. “I’ll get my laptop and look for a restaurant online.” Moments later she returned with her computer and USB

modem. After plugging both in, she tapped a few keys and stared at the monitor. “Says here that Marche’ is an excellent restaurant in Albany, and they’re serving Christmas dinner.”

“Phone number?” Lawrence picked up a phone. Kai read him the number, and he tapped it in. The restaurant had one opening for a party of three, and Lawrence booked it. Switching off the phone he said, “Four o’clock.”

* * * *

After breakfast, Kai and Liza went to Liza’s room to “get ready for dinner.” They took a bath in Liza’s Jacuzzi-size tub, made love there and again in Liza’s bed, returned to the tub, and finally dressed.

* * * *

As Lawrence, Liza, and Kai sipped after-dinner coffee at Marche’, Lawrence lifted his cup. “Merry Christmas, ladies.”

Looking at Kai, he continued. “It has been a pleasure getting to know you.”

Liza’s smile faded. “So you’re taking off again?” she asked.

“My flight to London leaves at eight tomorrow morning.”

Lawrence smiled sadly. “I won’t be home until next week. When do you go back to school?”

“We fly out a week from tomorrow. It was lovely spending Christmas with you, Daddy.”

* * * *

The next morning Liza put yogurt, juice, and buttered toast on a tray, and took the tray to her mom’s room. She returned to the kitchen, and sat at the table across from Kai. “My mother is feeling well enough to take care of herself, but she still wants to be alone.” Liza paused. “Ever been to the city?”

“New York City?” Kai’s eyes sparkled. “Never been, and always wanted to. But isn’t it far away?”

“Less than four hours by train.” Liza stood. “Let’s look up schedules and hotels.”

In her room, Liza sat at the desk and switched on her desktop computer. Kai pulled up a chair and sat next to her.

Some time later, Liza said, “Okay, we have business class seats on the train departing at noon, a cab picking us up here at eleven, and reservations through Monday, January 2, at the Hilton.”

Kai grinned. “Oh! What about our flight back to Oregon?”

Liza phoned the airline, cancelled their flight from Albany, and arranged one from LaGuardia.

* * * *

That night, after chatting and giggling all the way to New York, Liza and Kai arrived at the Hilton, unpacked, and privately celebrated their first night in the city.

For the rest of the week, they explored.

After seeing Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, Ground Zero, and the Empire State Building, the couple brought in the New Year, 2012, in Times Square.

On the following day, Kai and Liza returned to Graceville and the rigors of law school.

Chapter 15

One weekday morning in May, Liza emerged from the shower, hair curly and wet. She wrapped herself in a towel and leaned over the sink to apply mascara.

Kai stood in the doorway and smiled slightly as she watched Liza’s reflection. After a moment, she stepped forward and wrapped her arms around Liza’s waist. Nuzzling the top of Liza’s head, she murmured, “Now that the Supreme Court repealed Proposition 8, let’s go to California and get ourselves hitched.”

Liza flashed a smile at her own reflection. “That’s a fun fantasy.”

Stung by Liza’s flippancy, Kai dropped her arms and stepped back. She cleared her throat. Quietly she said, “How long are we going to do this?”

Liza continued applying makeup. “Do what?”

“This. Whatever this is.” Kai raised her shoulders. “Us.

You and me.”

Gazing at herself in the mirror, Liza said, “I’m sorry to seem dense. But I don’t understand what you are getting at.”

“You and I have been at this, this relationship of ours for going on two years now.” Kai slouched against the doorjamb.

“We go to classes together and room together, but we both know there’s more to it.” She picked at the doorjamb. “When you and I are in social circles, it’s easy to float about as if we’re uninvolved individuals, both doing our own thing.”

Kai spread her hands apart. “But look at Bruce and Belinda. Or Craig and Diane. Everyone knows they’re with each other. Couples. Together!” She swallowed. “It would be nice to have confirmation that I’m not in this alone.” She closed her mouth and waited for Liza to respond. After a silent moment, Kai took a deep breath. She exhaled, and her shoulders slumped.

“Or am I?”

Liza paused mid-stroke, and returned Kai’s gaze in the mirror. She shoved the mascara brush into the tube. “Do we really have to do this now?”

“Maybe not. But if not now, when?”

Liza sighed. Turning, she leaned against the sink and looked directly into Kai’s eyes.

Kai’s stomach flipped, and she thought, This woman is so incredibly beautiful. I’m about to get my heart broken, and all I can do is stand here and wish it weren’t so.

“Kai, you must know that I love you.”

Kai thought, Here it comes, the “but.”

Liza continued. “But I’ve made no bones about the fact that I have political aspirations. I’m getting this law degree, and I’m taking it to Washington. I’ve had a plan since I was five.”

Kai giggled. She couldn’t help it. She could see five-year-old Liza mapping out her life while trying new outfits on her Barbie doll.

“What’s so funny?”

Kai sucked in her smile. “Nothing. I’m sorry. Please continue.”

“Fine. I’m going to Washington, and I’m going to entrench myself in the political process. America is getting closer to electing the first female president of the United States, and I intend to be that woman.” Liza tossed her head, shaking her wet curls. “We’ve made so much progress as a nation, and I think my timing is perfect. However, I don’t think America is ready to elect someone even more controversial.” She raised her eyebrows and gazed pointedly at Kai.

Kai put on a poker face. “You mean gay.”

Ignoring her, Liza continued. “The only way I’m getting to the White House is with a husband. Americans would also prefer I have children, but one step at a time.”

Kai said, “So this is just a fling?”

“No. That’s not what I’m saying. I care about you. I really do. But this is very new for me. I need some time to figure it out.”

Kai barked out a laugh. “Good grief, how much time do you need? It’s been almost two years!”

Liza’s nostrils flared, and she turned back to the mirror.

“C’mon Kai. Give me a break. Like I said, I’m not used to this. I’m private about my personal life. And it’s important I remain private in order to take center stage at the White House someday.” Liza leaned forward and returned to applying makeup.

After a long pause Kai exhaled. “I’m not used to this either. I’m used to being out, being open about who I am and who I love. Being gay has never been an issue for me, or for my friends, or for my family. So to hide behind some sort of…I don’t even know what to call it! Smokescreen? It makes me… Well, it makes me uncomfortable.” Kai gulped and continued. “So, in another year this is all over and done with? And you go about your merry way to take on Washington, leaving all this, me included, behind?”

“I didn’t say that.”

“Then what are you saying?”

“Kai, I don’t know. What I do know is that the plan, all along, has been to get married. To a man.”

Liza paused and gazed again at Kai’s reflection. After a moment she looked down. “But I do think that you should come to Washington, too.”

Kai crossed her arms. “Gee thanks. So I get to tag along.

What would that make me?”

Liza turned around and faced Kai. She shrugged and smiled radiantly. “The woman behind the woman?”

Kai melted. Jeez, she hated that. What is wrong with me, she thought. There must be some diagnosis for this. To her I’m just a rest stop. And yet I can’t walk away.

Kai straightened and said, “Liza? The sick part is that I would do absolutely anything for you. Including this.” She swallowed. “Madam President, you can count on me not to get in the way.” She turned.

“Kai.”

“Yes?”

“You do know that I love you, right?”

“Yep.” Kai walked away.

Whispering to herself, Kai continued. “The best way you can, babe. The only way you know how.”

* * * *

After the 2009 Healthcare Reform Bill passed, the White House and congress collaborated to initiate a universal healthcare act in order to repair the bill’s shortcomings. The inadequacies to be addressed by a universal healthcare act included: (1) lack of parity between health insurance requirements and physician orders, (2) exorbitant rewards for malpractice lawsuits, and (3) skyrocketing costs of life-saving pharmaceuticals. The act’s primary challenge would be to resolve these issues while promoting research and innovation.

* * * *

“How about those changes to the proposed Universal Healthcare Act?” Craig put his half-full beer mug on O’Malley’s largest table. “It’s finally starting to look like something the majority of us can swallow.”

Diane leaned into Craig. “It’s about time! The notion of universal healthcare has bounced around for years.

The friends had gathered at O’Malley’s on the last Friday night of summer break to ring in their third and final year of law school.

Liza leaned forward. “Is anybody else a delegate to the Universal Healthcare Committee?” She looked around and raised her eyebrows. When nobody responded, she looked down. “I guess I’ll be participating without you then.”

“Wait a minute,” said Bruce. “You’re also president of The Bellingham Law Review. How are you going to do both and finish law school?”

Liza laughed. “The committee only has two meetings a month now, and we Skype them.” Seeing Bruce’s blank look, Liza explained. “You know, an internet-based teleconference?”

“Hey, now, that’s cool!” exclaimed Nikki. She turned to Bruce and asked, “Where’s Belinda?”

“On the rag.”

Jeannie rolled her eyes. “Would that your hemorrhoids kept you at home, too.”

Ignoring Jeannie, Bruce gazed at Liza. “That’s a seriously ambitious schedule you’ve got going.”

Diane leaned forward and lifted her beer. “Surely you know by now that Liza is smart as hell.”

“All that smarts wrapped up in such a sexy package.”

Bruce wolf-whistled.

Kai grinned. “Ain’t that the truth.” Liza shot her a look, and she shrugged. “Anybody can see Liza’s appeal.”

“True,” said Diane.

“Thanks, friends.” Liza shifted uncomfortably. “So. What classes are you all taking this semester?”

“Yeah,” said Kai. “Liza and I have two classes together.

Anybody else taking statutory interpretation, or sexual orientation and the law?”

Jeannie said, “Nikki and I are taking sexual orientation.”

Nikki threw her head back and laughed.

Bruce gulped beer and coughed. “Hey, are you all going to the party tomorrow night?”

* * * *

Liza and Kai stayed in Graceville for the holidays of their third year so they could use the law library to prepare for exams.

Each evening after studying, they took full advantage of the empty house and heated pool. Fall classes resumed, they aced their finals, and spring semester began.

On the first Saturday in March, clouds parted and temperatures soared. That afternoon, Jeannie and Liza stepped slowly into the pool. “Ohhhh yeahhhhh,” said Jeannie. “Now, that’s what I’m talkin’ about.” She ducked underwater and reemerged. “We are way too busy when we don’t have time to enjoy this pool.”

Liza went under and then stood in chest-deep water. “It’s my first time in this year.”

“Nikki and I were in last month, in the middle of the night.”

Jeannie winked. “But that’s another story.”

Wearing a purple bathrobe, Kai brought out her laptop and laid it on the patio table.

“Hey!” Jeannie splashed water onto the deck. “Aren’t you coming in?”

Kai flashed a plaid bikini. “In a minute.” She sat down and opened the computer.

Jeannie focused on Liza. “Yesterday in moot court, you surprised the heck out of me when you said that humans have dominion over animals. What was that about?”

“Humans have dominion over animals. Is that not clear?”

Liza tilted her head. “Humans are the apex of animate biology.”

Jeannie sighed. “Please tell me you don’t advocate vivisection.”

“Well…that’s what moot court was about, wasn’t it?

Whether rats should be used for medical research?” Liza drifted into deeper water and dog-paddled.

“They most certainly should not be used. Rats have feelings, too.”

“Let me get this straight.” Treading water, Liza turned to face Jeannie. “You’d rather endure a debilitating illness than allow rats to be sacrificed on your behalf?”

Jeannie lunged into the deep end, and swam past Liza.

“You’ve got that right.”

“Really?” Liza grabbed the edge of the pool with one hand, and swept water off her face with the other. “What if the sacrifice of a rat could save your sister’s life?”

“I don’t have a sister.”

Liza rolled her eyes. “Who do you love?”

“I love Nikki, my parents and brother, Kai, and sometimes even you.” Treading water, Jeannie looked into Liza’s eyes.

“None of us has the right to harm another living creature. We’re all connected under the skin.”

Liza’s jaw dropped. She looked up at Kai, and saw a mirror image of her own surprise. Kai closed her mouth, and returned her gaze to the computer.

Nikki streaked across the deck, and dove into the deep end of the pool. Surfacing, she faced Jeannie and wrapped arms and legs around her. Holding the edge of the pool with one hand, Jeannie held Nikki with the other. Peering over Nikki’s shoulder, Jeannie asked, “Are we not connected?”

“Ironically,” said Liza, “that line can be used to support a variety of arguments.” She lifted a corner of her mouth. “But yours is ludicrous. Really, Jeannie. Your dermis is connected to that of a rat?”

“If it’s alive, I’m connected to it.” Jeannie tossed her head.

“Interesting. How do you justify eating meat?”

“When I eat meat, an animal gives its life for my sustenance, and I give thanks to the gods and pay homage to the animal’s spirit.”

Liza chuckled. “That rationale could be used to support medical research, more logically than to support eating habits.”

She wrinkled her nose. “You don’t have to eat meat in order to survive. But there’s a good possibility that at least one of us wouldn’t be alive if it weren’t for medical research using animals.”

“Then so be it.” Jeannie trailed her fingertips along Nikki’s back. “Call it the luck of the draw. But we have no more right to harm animals than the Nazis had to experiment on humans.”

“I don’t like hurting animals.” Liza shook her head. “But we live in a world of hierarchies. Not making use of the resources given to us—allowing humans to suffer and die because we’re too squeamish to support medical and scientific research—is far more abhorrent than vivisection.”

Jeannie forcefully exhaled. “Kai?” she called. “What’s your take on this?”

Kai looked up. “Are you sure you want to know?”

“I am.”

“I’m with Liza.” Kai closed the laptop, slid out of her robe, and dove into the pool. Surfacing near Liza, she faced Jeannie.

“Humans have to take precedence over animals. With your big-hearted love for humanity, I’m a little surprised that you don’t see that, my friend. We all love animals. They should never be used frivolously. But when it’s necessary to use them, don’t you think we’re obligated to do so?”

“My heart says no.” Jeannie furrowed her brow. “But my brain is beginning to wonder.”

“Good.” Kai laughed. “Emotion and intellect are both needed for ethical issues.”

* * * *

Three weeks later, the four housemates celebrated their last spring break of law school in Aruba.

The following month, they submitted applications for the Oregon bar exams in July.

Chapter 16

On a drizzly May morning, Liza’s phone vibrated as she walked across the quad. Umbrella in one hand, she used the other to remove the phone from her belt. An area code of 202

revealed that the call came from Washington, D.C.

Liza shifted her backpack and straightened her spine. She connected the call. “Hello?” She frowned. “This is she.” She blinked several times as she listened. “Finals are in two weeks, and graduation is the second of June.” She paused. “How about Friday, the last day of May?” A smile spread across her face.

“Ten o’clock. I’ll be there.” Stowing the phone, Liza walked rapidly to Klondyke Hall.

* * * *

That evening, Kai and Liza sat at their respective desks, books open, studying silently. Liza cleared her throat and began softly humming Katy Perry’s “I Kissed a Girl.”

Kai grinned and hummed along.

Liza gazed at Kai with shining eyes. “I have news.”

“You do?”

“Senator Galston’s office called this morning.”

“Oh, wow! Cool! Will there be an interview?”

“There will be, but I’m hoping it’s just a formality.” Liza leaned back. “My dad is acquainted with the senator through work, and he put in a good word for me.”

“When’s the interview?”

“The Friday before graduation.”

Kai frowned. “Will you be back in time for the graduation ceremony?”

“I booked a flight out on Thursday after my last final, returning Saturday night.”

Kai whistled. “That’s a quick trip with a lot of air time.

You’ll be tired for graduation.”

“We’re both quite used to being tired.” Liza smiled. “And anyway, with all that time in the air, I may actually get some sleep.”

For the next two weeks, Liza and Kai studied during every waking moment—and during most of the moments formerly reserved for sleeping. They sailed through finals, and passed with excellent marks.

* * * *

On Thursday afternoon three days before graduation, Kai drove Liza to Graceville Airport and dropped her off at the curb outside the ticket counter. “Good luck,” she called out just before Liza slammed the door.

Liza bent and blew a kiss.

* * * *

The next day, after her interview in Washington, D.C., Liza left Senator Galston’s office and returned to the hotel. Eager to share the news of her hire, she tried several times to phone Kai, but couldn’t reach her.

Liza sat on the end of the bed and grinned at her reflection in the mirror above the dresser. She opened her phone and called her mother.

“Good morning,” said Judith.

“Hello Mother.”

“Oh, it’s you. Hello Elizabeth.”

“Were you expecting another call?”

“Pastor Philpot is calling back any minute,” said Judith.

“I’ll let you go then.”

“No, no. No.” Judith paused. “Are you finished with your classes?”

“I am.”

“Well, I’m proud of you, Elizabeth .And I’m sure your father is, too.”

“Is Dad home?”

“Of course not. When was he ever at home during daylight? Oh, did he tell you? His flight arrives in Graceville tomorrow afternoon at three.”

“His flight? Aren’t you coming?”

“You know I don’t fly on the Sabbath.”

“Mother! It’s my graduation ceremony!” Liza swallowed, and continued quietly. “Couldn’t you have arranged it somehow, maybe flown out earlier?”

“Logistically impossible. Your father insisted on flying on Sabbath. And Fridays are my busiest…“ Judith paused. “I have to go. Pastor Philpot is calling. I’ll talk to you later, Elizabeth.”

She hung up.

Liza closed the phone and shook her head. She reopened it and speed-dialed her dad.

“Hello?” said Lawrence.

“Hi Dad, how are you?” asked Liza.

“I’m well, Beth. How about you, now that you’re almost a lawyer?”

“I just talked to Mother. She said you’re coming alone to my graduation.”

“I’m sorry she won’t be there, honey.”

“Oh, well. It’s okay.” Liza sighed. “You’re flying in at three o’clock tomorrow?”

“I couldn’t get away any earlier,” said Lawrence.

“I won’t be there any earlier myself.”

“Oh? Why’s that?”

Liza grinned. “I’m in Washington, D.C. I’ve been hired as aide to Senator Galston.”

“Well good for you, Beth! I’m happy for you.”

“Thanks for putting in a good word for me.” Liza paused. “I won’t get back until late tomorrow night. Would you mind catching a cab to your hotel?

“Sure. I’ll catch a cab.”

“Okay, good I’ll see you Sunday morning then. Bye, Dad.”

“Bye, honey.”

Liza closed the phone and glanced at the clock. In two hours she would return to the senator’s office to sign employment paperwork. She lay back on the bed and speed-dialed Kai again. Without even ringing, Kai’s outgoing message played.

Liza closed the phone and stared at the ceiling. Frowning, she realized that Kai’s phone had gone straight to voicemail every time Liza tried to call today. Kai’s phone did that only when turned off. Liza sat up. Kai never turned off her phone. Even in class, she muted it but set it to vibrate mode.

Liza tried to call Kai several more times throughout the day with the same result. Late that night, she finally left a message.

“Kai! I’ve been trying to reach you all day. Where are you?”

The next morning, Liza checked out of the hotel, placed her luggage in the trunk of a rental car, and drove to Arlington, Virginia, where she spent most of Saturday apartment-hunting.

That afternoon, she drove to Dulles Airport, and took a five o’clock flight. Two plane changes and a shuttle ride later, Liza arrived at the house on Carlsbad Court.

Exhausted, Liza pulled her suitcase into her bedroom and switched on the light. Seeing Kai’s empty bed, she scowled at the clock. Twelve-thirty Sunday morning. Graduation started in only a few hours.

Liza didn’t notice the piece of paper on the floor. As she towed her suitcase across the room, she inadvertently kicked the paper under her bed and out of sight.

Chapter 17

After Kai drove Liza to the airport for her interview with Senator Galston, she returned to the house on Carlsbad Court.

The house’s lack of Liza felt palpable. Deflated and exhausted, Kai walked slowly to the bedroom, fell onto the bed, and lay where she landed, eyes staring unseeingly. Gradually her eyes closed, and she fell asleep.

Kai awoke in darkness to Kid Rock’s “All Summer Long”

blaring nearby. She bolted up muttering, “Where’s my phone?”

and then saw it on her nightstand displaying an illuminated photo of her mom. Kai grabbed the phone and opened it, and the musical ringer mercifully ceased.

“Hello,” Kai said as she switched on the nightstand lamp.

“Kaitlin, it’s me, Mom.”

Kai knew this of course, but she recognized that her mom didn’t understand that cell phones can be programmed to inform users of the identity of callers. Her gut tightened. Marianne rarely used her given name. “What’s the matter?” she asked sharply.

“Kaity, it’s your dad. I need you to sit down and listen to me. He wasn’t feeling well last night, actually he hasn’t been feeling well for a few days now, I wish I had paid better attention…” Her voice trailed off.

“What happened? Mama, please!”

“Well, he went golfing with the boys earlier today, as he always does on Thursdays, and he collapsed out on the course.

Fred called me from the clubhouse, and I met the ambulance here at the hospital. They’re working on him right now in the emergency department. One doctor has already spoken with me, and sweetie, he told me that it doesn’t look good. He’s quite sure your dad had a heart attack, but some of his numbers are what the doctor is calling ‘abnormal,’ and he doesn’t want to move forward with one course of action if it might make things worse.”

Marianne gulped. “I hope he knows what he’s talking about.”

“Mama, I’m sure he does. Okay. I’m packing a bag and heading home.”

“No, no, no! Please don’t do that. Just wait. I was only calling to let you know that we probably won’t make graduation.

You need to stay there and walk, Kaity. You’ve worked so hard for this. It’d break your daddy’s heart if he thought…” Kai’s mom let out a strange chuckle. “Break his heart. Oh, dear. That wasn’t the right thing to say.” She giggled. “Oh, Kaitlin, I’m sorry. This has me so frazzled is all.”

Kai smiled briefly as she thought of her strong mama’s down-to-earth humor and incredible sense of irony, and how these traits had helped the family through some tough times. Kai felt a rush of gratitude for her mom. “It’s okay Mama. Look, it makes no sense for me to stay here and suffer through the graduation ritual if you and Papa aren’t here. And I can’t stay here not knowing what’s happening with Papa. I’m coming home. Have you called the boys? Do you need me to make some calls?”

“No, sweetie, I’m calling them as soon as you and I hang up. If you really are coming home, please, please be careful. Is there someone who can come with you?”

“No, Mama.” Kai fervently wished Liza were here. “I’ll be fine. And I promise I’ll be very careful.”

Kai dropped the phone onto her bed, stepped to the closet, and with trembling hands pulled out a small suitcase. She dropped it onto her bed, grabbed undergarments from drawers and shirts from hangers, threw everything into the suitcase, and sprinted to the bathroom for toiletries. She closed the suitcase, carried it to the door, and turned around.

I’m forgetting something, she thought. “Oh! My phone.”

She walked back to the bed still carrying the suitcase, retrieved the phone, and stood still. Liza had arranged a ride home from the airport, an act that irked Kai when it happened. Maybe it’s a good thing she did, Kai thought. I’d better write her a note in case I’m not back when she gets here.

Kai strolled to her desk, dropped the suitcase, and hastily wrote a note. She tossed the note onto Liza’s bed, grabbed the suitcase, and rushed out of the room. Swept into the vortex of Kai’s rapid departure, the note slid off the bed and dropped to the floor.

Kai drove as fast as she dared, stopping only once for gas and a restroom. At first she half-listened to her favorite Aerosmith CD, but the music clashed with her thoughts, so she switched it off.

* * * *

At four o’clock Friday morning, Kai pulled into her parents’

driveway. The porch lamp was on, but that appeared to be the only light in the house. Carrying her suitcase, Kai used her key to let herself in. She switched on a light and tiptoed up the stairs to her parents’ room.

The door to the master bedroom stood open. Kai peered in and saw an unoccupied room. She trudged around the corner to the end of the hall and dropped the suitcase on the floor of her bedroom.

Kai drove to the same hospital where she was born. She parked in the visitor lot and hurried through the main entrance to the front desk. “Where is Ken Hamilton?” she asked.

“Is he a patient?” asked a white-haired woman wearing thick glasses.

“Yes. I’m his daughter.”

The woman examined a computer monitor and said, “He’s in CICU, room 134, at the end of that hall.” She pointed toward a long corridor.

Kai hurried down the hallway and through a doorway marked “Cardiac Intensive Care Unit.” A uniformed woman sat behind a desk and tapped on a keyboard. Glancing up, she said,

“May I help you?”

“My dad’s in room 134.”

Continuing to tap, the woman inclined her head. “Right there.”

Kai looked to her right. Through a window in the door, she saw her mom slumped in a chair next to a bed. Carefully Kai pushed open the door, stepped inside, and eased the door shut behind her. She gazed down at her dad.

Covered in white, Ken’s narrow body stretched the length of the bed. Gray puffiness under closed eyelids, thinning sandy hair combed straight back, tubes and bags and machines all around him, he looked years older than he had just a few weeks ago.

Kai heard a snort. Her gaze shifted to her mom. Eyes closed and breathing deeply, brown hair disheveled, Marianne’s head drooped and her body sagged into a vinyl chair. She looks exhausted, thought Kai.

Marianne choked on a snore and coughed. Her eyes flew open. She stared blankly at Kai, blinked, and then smiled. “Kaity, I’m so glad to see you,” she whispered. “Thank you for coming.”

She stood as Kai stepped around the bed, and they held each other for a moment.

Kai walked back toward the door and said softly, “Mama, if that racket you just made didn’t wake Papa, I don’t think we need to whisper.” She lifted a plastic chair near the door, carried it around the bed, and sat down next to her mom.

Marianne glanced at the bed and then toward Kai.

“They’re putting something in his IV so he’ll sleep. When he’s awake he’s still having terrible pain in his chest.”

Kai leaned forward. “He’s going to be okay, isn’t he?”

Marianne’s eyes filled with tears. She grabbed a handful of tissues from a box on the table next to the bed, and used them to wipe her eyes and blow her nose. “The doctor says he’s not out of the woods yet. They’re giving him a blood thinner, and tomorrow…” Marianne glanced at the clock on the wall. “Actually today, he’s scheduled for several tests. The doctor says that the heart attack may have damaged his heart, or veins, or both.”

Kai and Marianne turned toward the bed and sat silently for some time.

“Where are my brothers?” asked Kai.

“Kirk is flying to Sacramento this afternoon. Kendall’s picking him up at the airport, and then they’ll drive up here.”

Marianne pursed her lips. “Kip is at home asleep I hope.”

“Is Kip doing any better after his month in rehab?” In January Kip had checked himself into an alcohol rehabilitation program in Sacramento. Since dropping out of college, Kip had freeloaded off their parents and drifted from job to job. He currently worked at a gas station in Paradise.

“I don’t think so,” Marianne said grimly. “Last night in the emergency department I smelled alcohol on his breath. I told him to go home. Tried an hour later to phone him, but he didn’t answer. So he’d better be sleeping.”

Kai clenched her teeth. She hadn’t checked his bed, but she had passed Kip’s open door on her way to her room and subconsciously perceived it as empty. And his usual parking spot at the end of the driveway had definitely been empty. But she certainly didn’t want to tell her mother that. To change the subject Kai asked, “Does Kirk like his new job?”

Marianne brightened. “He’s only been with X.A.T. for a month and already got promoted. He likes Chicago so far, and is networking and making political connections. But I’m a little worried about how he’ll handle winter there.”

Again they lapsed into silence.

Out of the corner of her eye, Kai saw her mom’s head drop forward and bob back up. “Mama, why don’t you go home and get some sleep. I’ll stay with Papa. I took a long nap yesterday, so I’m wide awake.”

“Oh, no,” Marianne said firmly. She squeezed Kai’s knee.

“Thank you Kaity, but I’m staying right here. Why don’t you go on home? You can make sure Kip is there, too.”

Kai placed her hand over her mom’s smaller one. “I’ll just stay here with you then.” She looked up and noticed a sign on the wall near the door:

Cell Phones Are Strictly Prohibited in the CICU.

Using a cell phone can interfere with medical equipment.

TURN OFF ALL CELL PHONES!

Thank you for your cooperation.

Pulling her phone off its clip and switching it off, Kai nodded at the room’s landline. “You used the hospital’s phone to call Kip?”

“I can’t make that phone work.” Marianne frowned. “Last night a nurse’s aide came in and asked if I had everything I needed. I told her I needed to make a phone call, and she sat with your dad while I stepped outside.” Marianne sighed. “What I needed was for Kip to bring your dad’s laptop computer so he’ll have something to take his mind off his pain when he wakes up.”

Kai stood. “I’ll get the laptop, Mama. Where is it?”

“Oh, thank you, honey.” Marianne smiled. “I think it’s in your dad’s office. If not, maybe the breakfast nook or his nightstand.” As Kai turned to go, Marianne said, “Oh, and bring the power cord. The battery hasn’t been lasting lately.”

Kai drove to the house beneath a brightening sky. Old-growth pines prevented a view of sunrise, but a hint of it pinked the clouds. She pulled into the driveway, saw Kip’s orange Bug, and whispered, “Whew.”

Kai strolled directly to her dad’s office in the back of the house. A quick search revealed no laptop. She walked across the house and into the kitchen, and still no laptop. Taking them two at a time she sprinted up the stairs, ran down the hall, and stopped at the open door of Kip’s room. Her baby brother lay sprawled across the bed on top of the covers, face-down, fully clothed, and snoring loudly. Kai watched him for a moment. She sighed and quietly closed Kip’s door.

Kai looked on top of her dad’s nightstand, glanced around the room, opened drawers, and still found no laptop. “Dang,” she muttered. “Where is it?” She walked slowly downstairs, peered into the den, and finally saw it. Snatching the laptop from the coffee table, she yanked its plug and carried it to the Jeep.

When Kai returned to the CICU, she found her mom dozing. She placed the laptop on the table near her dad’s bed, and sat down quietly next to her mom.

An hour or so later, Marianne stirred. She sat up and gazed first at the laptop and then at Kai. “Thank you, Kaity.” She settled back into her chair, and the two women sat in companionable silence.

* * * *

Kai saw her dad’s hand move. She jumped up.

Ken’s eyes followed his daughter as she leaned over and 113

kissed his cheek. He raised his hand and waved it about, trying to find Kai’s hand.

Kai gripped her dad’s hand as she sat on the edge of his bed. “Papa,” she breathed. “I’m so glad to see you.” She gulped.

“How are you feeling?”

In a gravelly voice Ken said, “Not bad for an old guy.”

Gazing at her father’s frail face, Kai’s eyes started to fill.

She blinked rapidly and cleared her throat. “I love you, Papa.”

“And I you, punkin.” He softly squeezed her hand. Ken’s eyes drifted closed, and his grip slowly relaxed. His breathing deepened.

Kai placed his hand on the blanket. Tears brimming, she sat in the chair, and grabbed her mom’s hand.

Some time later, Kai glanced at the clock. Seven in the morning on Friday—ten in Washington. Senator Galston would interview Liza any moment now. Kai closed her eyes and wished Liza well.

“Oh. Kaity?”

Kai opened her eyes. “Yes?”

“Was Kip home when you got the laptop?” Marianne asked.

“He was.”

“Oh, good.”

For the rest of the morning and into the afternoon Kai and Marianne chatted, cried, sat quietly, and took turns going to the restroom and the cafeteria. Twice more Ken awoke, said a few words, and drifted back into a deep sleep.

Mid-afternoon, Marianne said, “Kaity, sweetie, if you’ll stay here with your dad, I think I’ll run home and grab a quick shower.

Your brothers will be here soon, and I feel gritty.”

“Sure, Mama. I’ll stay right here.”

An hour or so later Marianne returned with Kip in tow.

“Look who I found,” she said brightly.

Kai stood, walked around the bed, and hugged Kip. “How are you, Shrimp?”

Kip grinned down at her. “I’m good, sis. How about you?”

“Okay, considering,” Kai said with a sidelong glance at the bed.

Kip’s smile faded. “Yeah, I know.” He looked around the room. “I’ll go get chairs. Kendall and Kirk are on their way.”

Half an hour later the door opened, and Kendall and Kirk stepped into the room, both smiling tentatively. Kai rose and greeted her two older brothers. Marianne and her children chatted for some time, and then lapsed into silence.

* * * *

Shortly after midnight a gurgling sound came from the bed. All eyes turned toward Ken. Marianne and Kai stood, and the boys quickly followed. Ken’s eyes remained closed. He opened his mouth and gasped, closed it, opened and gasped, closed, and then lay completely still.

Holding her breath Kai stared at her dad. She lunged forward and grabbed his hand. “Papa!” An alarm shrilled.

Kendall flung open the door. “Somebody help!”

A red-haired woman wearing a white coat strode in.

“Please step out of the room.” She placed both hands on Ken’s chest and pushed down.

The family hurried out and stood near the door. Several people in scrubs rushed into the room, one of them wheeling a cart. Kirk faced the nurses’ station and crossed his arms. Hand on her mouth, Marianne stared, wide-eyed, through Ken’s window. “Mama? Maybe we shouldn’t watch.” Kai stood next to her mom, peering into her dad’s room.

Someone placed paddles on Ken’s chest and said something. Everyone else stepped back, and Ken’s body jumped. His eyes remained closed, and the procedure was repeated. Someone else placed a mask over Ken’s mouth and stood near the head of the bed, squeezing a bag.

After several minutes, the red-haired woman opened the door and held it open while the people in scrubs filed out. The woman then turned to Marianne. “Please come in.”

The Hamiltons shuffled silently into the room.

The woman closed the door. “We did all we could. I’m so sorry.”

“Oh, God!” Marianne staggered, and Kirk wrapped his arms around her. Kendall put his hands on Kai’s shoulders.

Sobbing, she turned into his arms. Kip stood alone, tears streaming down his face. Kai reached out and pulled him into a three-way embrace.

* * * *

As dawn broke Saturday morning, the Hamiltons sat in the living room of the family home, red-eyed and weary.

Gwen arrived midmorning, and escorted Kendra into the house. “Daddy!” Kendra squealed as she toddled toward Kendall. He scooped her up, kissed a rosy cheek, and stroked her blond curls.

Turning toward Marianne, Kendall said, “Look, Kendra. It’s Grammy.”

“Gwammy!” Reaching out her arms, Kendra leaned toward Marianne. Marianne reached up, and Kendall placed Kendra on her lap. Wet eyes shining, Marianne pulled the two-year-old close.

The Hamiltons shared memories of good times and laughed, jolted back to the present and cried, and comforted one another through their first morning of grieving. Around noon, Marianne yawned and carefully passed sleeping Kendra to Gwen.” My dear family, we’d better get some sleep.”

Walking to her room, Kai opened her phone to call Liza.

She looked at the dark screen and exhaled sharply. After powering it on, she speed-dialed Liza, and listened to four rings and Liza’s recorded voice saying, “Hello, you have reached…”

Lacking the energy to leave a message, Kai snapped the phone shut and dropped into bed.

* * * *

Later that day, the Hamiltons decided that Ken’s funeral would take place one week later, on the following Saturday.

Chapter 18

On the morning of graduation, Liza again tried to reach Kai. The phone rang three times.

“H’lo?”

“My God! I thought you dropped off the face of the earth!”

Liza heard a muffled sound. “Are you okay?”

“No. My dad died yesterday.”

“Oh, no! I’m so sorry.” Liza paused. “What happened?”

“Heart attack.” Kai hiccupped. “I can’t talk. Can’t stop crying.”

“Okay. I understand. Call me when you can. Okay?”

“Yep.”

Liza put down the phone and slowly prepared for graduation.

* * * *

After the graduation ceremony, Liza found her dad in the crowd. They ate lunch in the cafeteria, and he caught a cab to the airport. She returned to the house on Carlsbad Court, packed immediate necessities into a suitcase and the rest of her belongings into boxes, and arranged for the boxes to be shipped to her apartment in Arlington.

A red-eye flight delivered Liza to Dulles Airport at eight o’clock Monday morning. After a quick shower and clothes-change in her apartment, Liza took a cab to Washington, and started her new job.

* * * *

During Liza’s first week in Washington, she worked twelve-hour days in a time zone three hours ahead of Kai’s. She and Kai made and missed several phone calls, and left messages in increasingly irritated tones.

Kai took the lead in arranging her father’s funeral and burial. One week after the death of her beloved papa, she and her family eulogized and buried Ken. At the following reception, they visited with some two hundred relatives and friends.

* * * *

The next day, Liza attended an all-day aide-training seminar. That night, she tried to call Kai for the umpteenth time, and Kai finally answered.

“Well hello yourself,” Liza snapped. “Where the hell have you been?”

After a pause, Kai said quietly, “Burying my dad. And trying to reach my lover and best friend, who at the moment appears to be heartless.”

“I just endured a grueling week, too,” said Liza. “They treat aides like crap here.”

“Ah. I don’t see how a difficult workweek is even remotely comparable to the death of a parent.” Kai cleared her throat.

“And anyway, you’ve got what you wanted all your life—a job in Washington.”

“This isn’t what I want! This is a stepping stone. You know that.”

“Yeah, well, whatever. You’re on your way.” Kai held the phone away from her mouth and shouted, “Kip! Someone’s at the door!”

“Well, it’s clear that you don’t have time for me.” Without waiting for a response, Liza hung up.

Liza boxed up her feelings and tucked them away.

Anguish must not be allowed to interfere with the tasks at hand.

She had work to do and the plan did not include pining over Kai.

* * * *

Later that week Liza accepted an offer to be a Virginia delegate to the Universal Healthcare Committee. When the other Virginia delegates learned of Liza’s experience as a delegate in Oregon, they elected her as the state’s lead and spokesperson.

Chapter 19

Two days after her dad’s funeral and the morning after Liza’s terse phone call, Kai headed back to Graceville to retrieve her belongings. She welcomed the solitude of the drive. With her short hair blowing in the wind, she recalled cherished memories of her dad, his unbending integrity as a lawyer, his fierce love for his family. She tried to listen to music but couldn’t tolerate the sound. She remembered Ken’s bravado on the golf course and smiled. She cried and let the tears dry on her face.

Kai arrived at Carlsbad Court on Monday afternoon, unlocked the house, and trudged to the bedroom. She stopped in the doorway and stared at Liza’s stripped bed. Stepping around it, she opened the closet. Liza’s side was empty. Slowly she packed her things into boxes and stacked the boxes next to the front door.

After stacking the last box, Kai returned to the bedroom and sat on her bed. I’ll try one more time. She speed-dialed Liza, and sat blinking as she listened to four rings. Closing the phone, she flopped back onto the bed and lay still, physically and emotionally exhausted. Eventually she slept.

Early the next morning, Kai jotted a quick note to Jeannie, and placed the note and house key on the kitchen counter. After hauling boxes to the Jeep and closing the locked house door, she slid behind the wheel, and drove back to her mom’s house.

* * * *

Kai sat slouched on her bumblebee bedspread, staring glumly at nothing. Her phone rang, and she saw that the caller was Jeannie. Feigning cheer, she answered, “Hiya, roomie. How are you?”

“I’m fine,” said Jeannie. “I’ve been thinking about you lots lately.” She paused. “Kai? I just heard about your dad. I’m so sorry!”

Kai’s eyes filled with tears. “Thanks,” she croaked.

“I miss you.” Jeannie paused. “There’s a job possibility here. If you have any interest in living in Graceville, that is.”

“I have as much interest in living there as anywhere.”

“Hmm. Yeah, I get that.” Jeannie cleared her throat. “Two of my brother’s friends are starting a law practice here.”

Kai grabbed a tissue from the nightstand and wiped her eyes. “Yeah?”

“Well, they need an expert in women’s rights. They need a lawyer like you.”

“Are women’s rights being violated in Graceville?”

“Happens everywhere.” Jeannie paused. “Are you still sitting for Oregon’s bar exams next month?”

Kai sniffled. “I haven’t done much study…”

“Nikki and I are taking an online bar prep class. It starts next Tuesday. She’ll fly in this weekend and stay with me at my parents’ house. How about you come and take the prep class, too, and then study with us until the bar exams? My folks have a guest room.”

* * * *

That weekend Kai packed a few things. On Sunday night she said good-bye to Marianne and Kip, and went to bed early.

She left before dawn, and arrived at Jeannie’s house before noon on Monday.

After Kai and Nikki took the two-day prep class with Jeannie, they celebrated Independence Day with Jeannie’s family, and then studied together until the last week of July.

As the end of July approached, Kai’s apprehension increased. How would she react to Liza? They hadn’t communicated since that painful phone call after the funeral.

Kai’s stomach fluttered with longing, roiled with resentment, and clenched in anxiety.

* * * *

Nikki and Kai rode with Jeannie as she drove to the Monarch Hotel in Clackamas.

The next morning, Kai knocked on Jeannie and Nikki’s door, and the women walked together to the hotel’s conference rooms for the first of Oregon’s two-day bar exams.

Liza had not arrived when the exams began, and she remained absent when the first day ended.

That evening after dinner, Kai trudged to her room and threw herself onto the bed. This is the last straw, she thought.

How could Liza be so cruel? She could have at least sent an email. Kai shook her head. That’s it. I’m done.

* * * *

Midmorning on the day after the exams, the three friends checked out of the hotel and drove back to Graceville.

After unpacking and washing a few loads of laundry, Jeannie and Kai took Nikki to the airport, and then headed for O’Malley’s.

Kai lifted a mug of Carlahan. “To you, dear one, in eternal gratitude for your tutoring and friendship.”

Jeannie grinned and clinked her mug against Kai’s.

“Backatcha, my sexy friend.” She took a sip. “How do you think you did?”

“Most of it seemed easy. I actually think I passed.”

“Well, of course you passed, thanks to your masterful tutor.” Jeannie laughed. “But we won’t know for at least five weeks. Meanwhile, you can submit your resume to ‘Mitchell and Rodriguez, Attorneys at Law.’”

“Tell me about them.” Kai put down her mug, and swiped the back of her hand across her mouth. “Mitchell and Rodriguez.

What are they like?”

“They’re in their mid-thirties. My brother has known Sam Mitchell since first grade. Sam is African American, about five-foot-five, chubby, and hairless.

Kai widened her eyes. “In his thirties and already hairless?”

Jeannie smiled. “Sam has been shaving his head since high school, says his big bald head balances his girth.”

Kai laughed. “What about the other guy?”

“My brother met Robert Rodriguez in high school. He’s about our height, medium build, black hair, and specializes in contract law.”

“So why are they interested in women’s rights? And why would they be interested in my skills?” Kai sipped her beer.

Jeannie put down her mug and leaned forward. “Rumor has it that a local restaurant chain, McGill’s, faces potential lawsuit. Sam Mitchell’s wife has a friend who’s a server there.

Several women have noticed that all of the management positions are continually filled by men. Many of McGill’s female servers have applied for such positions and been passed by.”

“Interesting,” said Kai.

“According to Sam,” Jeannie continued, “several of the women who work at McGill’s have started getting together regularly, and are talking about bringing a case against the owner. Sam seems to think that the practice handling the lawsuit will gain not only monetarily, but will get publicity and notoriety in the community.”

Kai grinned. “Sounds like my kind of case.”

“It’s also a good cause. Sam and Robert are really nice, and they believe in doing what’s right. They just don’t have expertise in this area. And they’re looking for a lawyer with partnership potential.”

Kai’s smile broadened and then fell. “I’m sure going to miss you, Jeannie. When do you leave for Loma Linda?”

“I have to be there next week. I’m almost packed.”

Kai shook her head. “I still can’t believe you’ll have both a law degree and an M.D. What a brainiac you are!”

“We’ll see if I’m as smart as all that.” Jeannie’s eyes softened. “But I am determined to help women, legally and medically.”

“You really are something else,” said Kai. “I mean, in law school I adored you. But after studying with you these weeks, I feel I finally know you. I love you, man.”

“Thanks,” said Jeannie. “But you can’t have my beer.” She laughed. “Seriously, though, the feeling is mutual, my friend.

You’re wonderful. And Liza was never good enough for you.”

Kai’s jaw dropped. “Liza! You know she and I weren’t…”

“Yeah, yeah. So you say.” Jeannie grinned impishly.

Kai looked down and blushed.

Jeannie mercifully changed the subject. “So what are you going to do now? Are you going back to Paradise, or hanging out here?”

“If it’s okay, I’ll stay at your place one more night.”

Jeannie beamed. “That’d be great.”

Kai smiled gratefully. “Tomorrow I’ll update my resume and take it to the firm.”

* * * *

The next morning when Kai stopped at the law offices of Mitchell and Rodriguez, she met and chatted with the reserved but friendly Robert Rodriguez. After handing him her resume, she drove back to Paradise.

* * * *

Three weeks later, Robert phoned Kai and offered her a job.

Kai accepted, packed, drove back to Graceville, and moved into an apartment she had found online.

* * * *

On Monday morning, Kai pushed through the glass doors of the law firm, approached the pixie-like receptionist behind the desk, and smiled. “Hello. I’m Kai Hamilton. I believe Robert is expecting me.”

“Pleased to meet you, Ms. Hamilton.” The receptionist stood and extended a small hand. “I am Charro Valdez. I will tell Mr. Rodriguez that you are here. Please have a seat.”

Kai sat, and a few minutes later Robert stepped into the waiting area. “Kai. So good to see you again.” He shook her hand. “I’ll show you to your office.”

Kai followed Robert down a hall and through an open door. “Please make yourself comfortable,” said Robert. “Tell Charro if you’d like something that’s not in your office. And let Sam or me know if you need anything else.” He smiled and stepped out, softly closing the door behind him.

Kai stroked the desk. “Thus begins my life as a lawyer.”

She looked up and grinned. “Bring it.”

A moment later a sharp knock startled Kai. “Come in,” she called out.

The door opened, and a round smiling face peered around the corner. “Hi! I’m Sam. Sam Mitchell.”

Kai grinned and walked toward him, extending her hand.

“Hi Sam, I’m Kai.”

Sam stepped through the doorway and shook Kai’s hand.

Still smiling he said, “You come highly recommended.”

“I’ll do my best to live up to that.”

“I’m sure you’ll do just fine. Glad to have you on board.”

Sam looked around Kai’s office. “The decorator did a good job.

But please make this space yours with knickknacks, certificates, pictures of family, kids, pets.” He paused. “Got any of those?”

“I have some certificates.” Kai grinned. “And a family. But no kids. And no pets. How about you?”

“Got a wife, three kids under age ten, two dogs, three cats, and a turtle.”

“Nice,” said Kai. “Sounds like a fun household.”

Sam nodded. “Robert has two kids and a third on the way.” He spread his hands. “We’re populating the earth, so you don’t have to.”

Kai laughed. “Thanks for that.”

“This is a very pet-friendly town.” Sam grinned. “You might want to consider a kitten. Maybe a black and white one with six toes on one paw?”

“Aha,” said Kai. “One of your cats has a litter?”

Sam clapped his hands. “See? Deductive reasoning.

You’re a natural.”

Kai’s eyes twinkled. “My landlord doesn’t allow pets.

Otherwise I’d certainly take one.”

“No worries.” Sam winked. “We’ll find homes for the kittens.” He pointed at her file cabinet. “The paperwork for the McGill’s case is in the top drawer. Holler if you have questions.”

* * * *

Late that night, Kai sat on her bed and shuffled through a box of photographs, selecting several to display in her office.

Beneath her photos of Yosemite was one of Liza, taken in the dorm during their first year at Bellingham.

Kai lifted the photo and gazed at Liza’s face until she couldn’t see through her tears. A sob caught in her throat.

Pushing the photographs back into the box, she switched off the light and wept.

* * * *

Ten months later, unbeknownst to Kai, Liza got married.

Chapter 20

One year after she met him, on a sunny June afternoon, Liza married Senator Henry Galston on Birch Hill, near her parents’ Schenectady home. Birch Hill’s Conservatory easily accommodated the couple’s three hundred wedding guests.

Liza’s dad Lawrence gave her away. Judith’s Seventh-day Adventist minister conducted the ceremony, and then turned to face the audience. He smiled broadly. “May I present to you Mr.

Henry Galston and Ms. Elizabeth Sterling, husband and wife.”

The reception occurred in Birch Hill’s Columbia Ballroom.

Out of respect for Judith’s religious rituals, it featured neither alcohol nor dancing. Instead, guests received an elaborately catered vegetarian dinner, brought to their linen-covered tables by servers wearing tuxedos.

After the meal, twenty-five-year-old Liza and forty-one-year-old Henry each cut a small piece of cake, and cleanly fed each other. While wedding guests ate cake, servers filled champagne glasses with Martinelli’s Sparkling Cider.

Lawrence stood and cleared his throat. “Henry, my son?”

Laughter rippled through the room, and Lawrence grinned.

“Henry, it’s true that you’re closer to my age than you are to my daughter’s. But I’ve seen how you look at Beth, how you respect and support her. And I believe that my daughter made an excellent choice.” He lifted his glass. “To a lifetime of wedded bliss.”

As the wedding guests cheered, a tall young man stood.

“To my dad and his bride: I wish you good health and happiness.”

Henry raised his glass. “Thank you, Steven.”

* * * *

Liza and Henry spent the night in an Albany hotel. The next morning, they boarded a thirteen-hour flight to Greece, and slept that night at the hotel St. George Lycabettus in Athens.

Liza awoke to the sound of the shower. She sat up and stretched. Looking around, she grinned at the opulent accoutrements of the hotel’s honeymoon suite.

Moments later Henry opened the bathroom door, and stood in the doorway wearing a terrycloth robe. “Good morning, dear. You look happy. Was it something I did?” He waggled his eyebrows.

Liza winced. Henry could be so crass. She gave him a tight smile, threw off the covers, and stood. Slipping into her robe, she asked, “My turn in the bathroom?”

With a confused frown, Henry stepped toward the closet.

“Okay. Sure.”

* * * *

The newlyweds took a taxicab to Marina Zea in Piraeus, a harbor city developed in the Fifth Century BCE, and boarded a chartered ship. That evening the boat docked in Korissia on the island of Kea.

Liza stared at Henry, who stood at the mirror fixing his hair. “Are you coming ashore or not?” she asked.

Henry gave his hair one last pat and turned. “I’m coming.”

* * * *

The couple dined on seafood in a Korissia restaurant, and returned to the ship.

That night as they slept, the boat carried them from Kea to Delos, the mythological birthplace of Apollo. After exploring Delos’s sacred ruins, they set sail for the island of Mykonos.

* * * *

Standing on deck, Henry and Liza watched Mykonos and its landmark windmills as their ship approached the island.

Wearing swimsuits and shorts, and carrying beach towels, they strolled ashore in Tourlos, and caught a cab.

“Water Beach,” said Henry as he scooted close to Liza.

Putting his arm around her, he squeezed her shoulder. “What do you think of Greece so far, honey?”

“What’s not to like?” Liza smiled. “Which islands did you see when you were here with your late wife?”

Henry’s face clouded. “We stayed in Athens.”

She gazed at him curiously. “Why?”

“Not enough time or money to go elsewhere.”

She patted his chest and laid her head on his shoulder.

At Water Beach, the couple rented chairs and umbrellas, and slathered sunscreen on each other. Liza looked around.

“Why is everyone dressed?” She grinned. “I thought nudity was required on beaches in Greece.”

Henry laughed. “Not at this beach.” He gazed at a busty blonde walking topless at the water’s edge. “But it is allowed.”

Liza followed his gaze and raised her eyebrows. “Oh, my.”

After a silence, she turned to Henry. “What is your son doing this summer?”

“He’s taking summer courses at Harvard, getting a jump start on his junior year.”

“Does he get good marks in school?”

“Pretty good.” Henry squeezed Liza’s hand. “Steven struggles a bit, but he puts in the work.”

Liza leaned back and closed her eyes. “The sun feels marvelous.”

“Mm hmm.” Henry took a deep breath and relaxed into his chair. “Wouldn’t it be fun to make a baby in Greece?”

Liza’s eyes flew open. “This is not the time for a baby, Henry. I start my new job with the Arlington firm the day after we get home.”

Henry kissed Liza’s hand and placed it on the arm of her chair.

* * * *

That night, back aboard the ship, Henry sat on the bed with the remote in his hand, channel-surfing.

Liza stepped out of the shower, and Henry watched her towel dry and shrug into a robe.

As Liza sat on the bed next to him Henry said, “You got yourself a tan today.”

Liza smiled. “And the tan lines to prove it.”

Kissing her, Henry tugged off her robe.

* * * *

When Liza and Henry awoke the next morning, their ship bobbed against its anchorage off the shore of Santorini.

With her hair blowing in the wind, Liza leaned against the rail and gazed at brilliant blue roofs atop gleaming white buildings. She looked up at Henry, eyes sparkling. “Now, this is the island I’ve always wanted to see.”

Henry draped his arm over Liza’s shoulders. “We’ll be here for a whole week.”

After shuttling to shore, the newlyweds checked into the hotel Santorini Palace, overlooking the sea. Over the next few days they walked the crooked streets of Fira, feasted on lamb gyros and fava caper, drank Mythos beer and Greek tea in taverns near the caldera, and caught taxicabs to various Santorini beaches.

* * * *

On their last night in Fira, Liza and Henry sat on the balcony of their hotel room, sipping Metaxa brandy in the glow of another stunning Santorini sunset.

“We leave tomorrow,” Liza said sadly.

“It has been fun. But it’s not over yet,” said Henry. “We have four more days of cruising.”

Liza yawned. “What are our ports of call again?”

“Heraklion and Rethymnon on the island of Crete, the mainland towns of Monemvasia and Spetses, and then back to Marina Zea in Piraeus.”

“I love how that rolls off your tongue.”

Henry grinned. “Remember how much you liked that hotel in Athens where we spent our first night?”

Liza nodded.

“Well, I booked our same room at the St. George Lycabettus for our last night in Greece.”

“Aha.” Into the darkening night Liza continued quietly, “It’s a full-circle return to the womb. And in the birthplace of civilization.”

* * * *

After the honeymoon, Liza and Henry returned to their home near Washington, D.C. Deeply tanned and rested, the next day Liza started work as an attorney for the law offices of Tingwall and Durham.

The couple put the final touches on preparations for their Washington wedding reception, and then celebrated with five hundred of their closest friends and political connections.

* * * *

Later that year, the Universal Healthcare Act passed. Liza received initial publicity for her role in the process, and then notoriety as the act proved successful.

The following year, Liza made partner at Tingwall and Durham. While maintaining her position at the firm, she headed the election campaign of a fellow democrat running for congress and led the congresswoman to victory.

Liza had learned much about the political process from Henry and from education and life. She knew she was ready to take office, and that she needed to do so in New York.

After establishing residency on Long Island, Liza began campaigning for the senate.

Chapter 21

After a year with the firm and a lengthy trial, Kai stepped out of the courthouse into a sunny summer afternoon and a throng of media.

“How do you feel about winning the case against McGill’s?”

“Do you think your clients received a fair settlement?”

Kai spoke into a bouquet of microphones. “I am happy that justice prevailed. My clients are satisfied with the settlement.” She fielded a few more questions and then walked to her BMW ActiveHybrid, slid inside, and closed the door.

A reporter that Kai recognized from local television tapped on her window. She opened the window and accepted the woman’s handshake.

“I’m Monica Ling from KXNU TV.”

“I have no further comment, Ms. Ling.”

“Please call me Monica. And I’m not looking for further comment. I’d like to take you to dinner.”

Kai’s eyebrows shot up. She gazed at the raven-haired beauty, and noticed that Monica’s height and body looked comfortingly familiar. “Well, okay. Where and when?”

“Bartholomew’s Bistro? Pick you up at six?”

“I can meet you there.” Kai tilted her head. “You don’t know where I live, do you?”

“Yes I do.” Monica flashed a bright white smile. “It’s in your firm’s press kit.”

“Oh, yeah.” Kai grinned. “Forgot about that.”

“We can meet at the restaurant. But I thought you might enjoy riding in my Corvette.”

“Ooh. Pick me up at six?”

“Done.” Monica tapped the car’s door and stepped back.

Kai peeled out as compellingly as she could in her little car. At home she showered and then dressed in white linen slacks, a red and white aloha shirt, and rust boat shoes.

* * * *

The doorbell rang. Monica posed in the doorway wearing a short black dress that seductively clung to her curves.

Kai whistled softly. “Wow.”

Monica stood straight and grinned. “Look at you. Matching my car, and exponentially exceeding its sexiness.”

Kai slipped her hand into the crook of Monica’s arm. “Let’s see that car of yours.”

Monica and Kai slid into the red Corvette, and Monica started the engine. With a purring growl, the car pulled out of the parking lot and devoured the route to the bistro.

* * * *

After dinner, Monica said, “Have you been to Eve’s Obsession?” Seeing Kai’s puzzled expression, she continued.

“It’s a lesbian bar on Serpentine Boulevard.”

Kai tipped back her head and gazed at Monica through half-closed eyes. “I must ask.”

Monica propped her chin on her hands. “Yes?”

“How did you know?” Kai put her napkin on the table. “Not that it matters really, because you’re right. But how did you know I’m gay? Most folks don’t seem to get it unless I tell them.”

Monica smiled. “I have excellent gaydar. Just an intuitive ability.”

“I’ve always considered myself intuitive.” Kai raised an eyebrow. “But I didn’t pick up on you until you spelled it out for me.”

“Ha! Glad to know my carefully crafted facade is working.”

Monica winked. “Occupational hazard.”

“Fascinating. Okay.” Kai stood. “Show me Eve’s Obsession?”

Monica pulled into the nightclub lot, and whipped into a parking space.

“This is some car,” murmured Kai.

“If you’ll be designated driver, you can drive it home.”

Kai smacked the dashboard. “Done.” Monica handed her the keys.

* * * *

That night after slow-dancing at Eve’s Obsession, Kai and Monica returned to Monica’s house, and slept together.

The next morning at Monica’s breakfast table, Kai said, “I was planning to buy a Harley today.”

“Yeah?” Monica sipped her coffee. “Why’s that? Why today?”

“Partly to celebrate winning the case against McGill’s.” Kai grinned. “But mostly because I’ve wanted one for years.”

Monica finished her coffee and stood. “I’ll take you to Graceville Harley-Davidson in my little red Corvette.”

Monica helped Kai select a Fat Boy with a custom purple paintjob. After completing purchase paperwork, Kai roared out of the parking lot, and Monica followed her home.

That afternoon, with Monica on the seat behind her, Kai maneuvered the bike along a curvy road to the coast. The couple took off their shoes and walked along the beach, and then ate at a seafood restaurant with a panoramic view of the ocean. Sated, both visually and gastronomically, they remounted the bike and made the hour-long journey home.

* * * *

At the end of summer, Kai taught Monica how to golf, and by autumn Monica had become a worthy opponent. They spent as much time as possible on Serenity Golf Course as leaves transitioned from green to yellow, orange, and red.

Monica had a lifetime membership at a local yoga studio, and that winter Kai joined, too. Monica helped Kai accomplish the advanced positions, and before winter ended, Kai’s flexibility matched Monica’s.

Kai and Monica continued to maintain separate households, but spent most nights together. Sharing physical hunger and compatibility, athleticism and an intellectual appreciation for one another’s minds and careers, they communicated easily and on many levels.

Kai still found it difficult to abstain from thinking about Liza. But being with Monica eased the pain.

* * * *

On a cloudy April afternoon, Kai answered her office phone.

“I need to talk to you,” Monica said breathlessly. “When can we meet?”

“O’Malley’s tonight?”

“No. It needs to be more private.” Monica paused. “Come to my house? I’ll order something for dinner. I’m already home.”

“You’re home? At two o’clock? What happened?”

“I’m off today. I’ll tell you about it when you’re here.”

* * * *

That night when Monica opened her door, Kai stepped inside and hugged her. “Are you okay?”

Monica closed her eyes and shook her head. “Not exactly.”

She grabbed Kai’s hand and led her into the living room.

They sat facing each other.

Monica looked down and shook her head. “There’s no easy way to say this. So I’m going to just say it.” She took a deep breath. “I’m HIV positive.”

“What? No! How?”

Monica blinked back tears. “I’d rather not get into the details. I’m sorry. I hope you understand.” She swallowed hard.

“The cocktail that addresses symptoms and slows the virus is now only two or three pills, and I start it next week.” She grabbed a tissue. “I won’t be subjecting you to the risk of getting this. But I don’t want to lose you.” She gazed at Kai. “Can we still be friends? Please?”

“Of course!” Kai stood, stepped to Monica’s side, and nuzzled her hair. “We can still be more than friends. We’ll just use protection.”

Monica looked up at Kai. “No. We can’t. I’m not having sex with you. I’m not having sex until a cure is found.” She closed her eyes tightly. “I can’t stand the thought of infecting someone I love.” Monica grabbed Kai’s hand and focused her red-rimmed eyes on Kai’s face. “You have to get tested.”

“Okay,” murmured Kai. “I will.”

Wiping her eyes, Monica stood. “I said I’d order dinner.

What can I get for you?”

“I’m not hungry.”

“Then just hold me a minute, okay?” Monica wrapped her arms around Kai’s waist. Moments later she stepped back.

“You’d better go.” She walked toward the door. “Get the HIV test tomorrow. I think you’ll have to be tested again in a couple of months, to make sure it’s not dormant and developing.” She gave Kai a peck on the cheek. “You’d better be HIV-free, my friend.”

Chapter 22

Three months later, guiltily relieved that she tested negative, and missing the encompassing cohesiveness she had enjoyed with Monica, Kai’s spirits lifted when she made partner.

The firm changed its name to “Mitchell, Rodriguez, and Hamilton,” and Kai bought a house.

* * * *

Shortly after Kai became a homeowner, her landline rang.

She picked up a cordless phone, flopped down onto a chair, and pushed the talk button. “Hello?”

“Kaity, it’s me, Mom.”

Kai inhaled sharply. “Everything okay, Mama?”

“Yes, honey.” Marianne paused. “Well, not completely.”

“Why?” Kai sat up. “What’s wrong?”

Marianne sighed. “Your brother Kip is in trouble again.”

“What now?” After their father died, Kip went on a month-long drinking binge, and then was arrested for driving under the influence. He spent six months in jail and, as far as Kai knew, had been sober ever since.

“Kip ran into the Peterson boy with his Volkswagen.”

“Oh, no! Is Dennis okay?”

“Dennis is in the hospital, but they say he’ll completely recover.” Marianne took a deep breath. “The Petersons have been such good neighbors, but they’re so mad at Kip they can’t see straight.”

“Was Kip drunk?”

“No, thank God. But the Petersons refuse to believe that.

They’re threatening to sue.” Marianne gulped. “I sure wish your father were here.”

“Me, too, Mama. Every day.” Kai swallowed. “Hey, I’ve got an idea. Kip could come live with me, and finish college here in Oregon.”

“Oh! Now, that sounds like a good idea. But what about the Petersons? I mean, couldn’t it make them more upset if Kip disappears as though he’s avoiding responsibility?”

“Having him out of sight could put him and lawsuit out of the Petersons’ minds. Besides, Mama, you deserve a break from Kip’s shenanigans. And if the Petersons do decide to pursue something, I’ll make sure he gets back to face the music.”

“I’d miss having him around though.” Marianne barked out a laugh. “Good grief and grits, that brother of yours is such a dichotomy. When he’s good, he’s very good, but when he’s bad…”

“I know.” Kai chuckled. “If he’ll come live with me, though, I’ll practice my tough-as-nails courtroom tactics on him.”

“Sounds good, Kaity.”

“I’ll send him an e-mail suggesting it.” Kai paused. “How are my other brothers doing?”

“Kirk is still enjoying working for X.A.T. He and Kelly are getting married in October, remember. You’re flying to Chicago for the wedding, aren’t you?”

“Mama, I can’t. I’m preparing for a big case, and the trial is in October.”

Marianne sniffed.

Kai asked, “Have you seen Kendall and his family lately?”

“Oh, yes! They were up here last weekend. That Kendra talks a mile a minute. And with her blond hair and big blue eyes…” Marianne chuckled. “Kendall and Gwen already have their hands full, and Gwen is due to deliver Kevin next month.”

Kai laughed. “You’ll have a grandkid in each flavor.”

* * * *

Later that evening, sitting in front of television with her laptop, Kai sent an e-mail:

Hi Shrimp,

Mom told me about Dennis Peterson. I’m so sorry. That must’ve been horrible, running into the kid. And now, with the Petersons upset, no doubt it’s tough for you there.

I have this new house that I think you’d like. It has plenty of room for both of us, at least for a year or two. You can finish your degree, and get a fresh start.

Classes start next month. So how soon can you get your butt up here?

Love,

Kaity

* * * *

On a warm Saturday afternoon two weeks later, Kai’s cell phone rang. Smiling, she opened it. “Hey, Shrimp, are you here?” She paused. “Oh, just turn right on Maple, and make an immediate left.” Phone to her ear, she walked out her front door and peered down the street. “I see you.” She waved at Kip’s orange Bug.

After Kai and Kip moved boxes into his room, he stood up and stretched his back. “Hey sis, has Gwen had her baby yet?”

Kai frowned. “Isn’t the baby due in a couple of weeks?”

“When I left Paradise, she was in labor.”

“Seven hours ago?” Still frowning, Kai opened her phone, held down a button, and put the phone to her ear. “Mama, how’s Gwen?” Kai listened, and a smile spread across her face. “Nine!

Two pounds more than Kendra.” She laughed. “They’d better stop, or the next one’ll be un-passable.” She winked at Kip.

“Congratulate Gwen and Kendall for Kip and me.”

* * * *

The next morning, Kai and Kip ate breakfast together.

Sitting at the kitchen table across from her brother, Kai asked,

“You have your motorcycle license, don’t you?”

“Yeah.”

“If you’ll take a motorcycle safety course, I’ll let you use my bike.”

Kip’s eyes widened. “Do you have a bicycle, or are you talking about your Harley.”

Kai laughed. “The Harley. Your poor little car could use a rest. And it’s way easier to find parking for a motorcycle than for a car.”

That morning, Kip found a motorcycle safety class online and enrolled.

* * * *

Later that evening, Kai sat next to Kip as he flipped television channels with the remote. “So, Shrimp, what are your thoughts about college? We need to see about getting you registered and enrolled.”

“I don’t know, sis. College doesn’t really seem to be my thing.”

“Baby brother,” Kai said sternly. “You are way too smart to waste your brains and talent on surfing and riding. Playing has a certain appeal, but you deserve to give the degree an honest shot.”

Kip replied slowly. “I’ve done okay at community colleges and have two years of general ed out of the way. Maybe it’s time to get serious and choose a major. Honestly Kai, I’m not sure where I want to go next. I’m a great mechanic, but I don’t want to get a degree to fix cars all of my life.”

“Nor should you. No disrespect to mechanics, but I agree.

I don’t think you’d be happy doing that, and I think you need something to challenge that huge brain of yours.”

“I think you give me way more credit than I deserve.”

“Not at all, Shrimp. You are tremendously smart. I think you merely lack self-confidence.”

Kip raised an eyebrow. “You have any suggestions?”

Kai leaned back. “Have you thought about engineering?

You wouldn’t necessarily have to take mechanical engineering, but you do have the intellect and talent to be the one designing or building the cars, as opposed to repairing them.” Leaning forward, she rested her elbows on the table and gazed at Kip.

“Have you talked with any advisors along the way?”

“They don’t know what they’re doing.” Kip sniffed. “The ones I talked to helped with schedules, but when it came to career counseling they were lame. One of them gave me a career aptitude test, and it said I was mechanically inclined.” He rolled his eyes. “Duh.”

Kai laughed. “How about I take tomorrow morning off and we’ll go down to the university together? We can see about getting an appointment with the chair of the engineering department, or better yet, talk to him or her while we’re there.

And we’ll see what needs to be done to get you enrolled for fall quarter. I can’t help but believe that when you find something to really sink your teeth into—something that charges your soul and challenges your mind—that life will be easier for you all the way around.”

Nodding, Kip grinned.

Kai continued. “At the risk of sounding like an older, bossy sister, it’s time to take some responsibility, bro. And on the off-chance that the Petersons do decide to pursue a lawsuit, your demonstration of stability and responsibility will go a long way with a judge.”

Kip mumbled a response.

“What’s that, little brother? I didn’t understand you.”

Smiling impishly, Kip said, “I hate it when you’re right!”

* * * *

Kai and Kip spent the next morning at the university, and left with a plan. Kip’s grades were barely good enough, but after Kip and Kai shared Kip’s mechanical accomplishments with the chair of the engineering department, he was eager to welcome Kip into the program.

On the chair’s recommendation, the school allowed Kip to enroll and demonstrate his ability to pull the grades.

Kip rose to the occasion, getting almost straight A’s both fall and winter quarters.

* * * *

Nine months later, Kip received a letter from Dennis Peterson. Frowning, he slowly opened it.

Hey Kip,

My parents don’t know I’m writing this letter. They are still pretty pissed about the whole accident, but I’m not sure why.

They’ve been pretty pissed about a lot of things for a long time it seems, and now they have this to be mad at. Maybe it’s just because they’re old.

Anyway, I wanted to write and tell you that I’m not mad. I know it was an accident. My parents still talk about suing, but if it is up to me, I won’t do it. You and your family have always been nice to me, and as far as I can tell you were always nice to my folks, too. I don’t know why they have to be mad at the world all the time. If they do try and sue you or your family, I’ll do everything I can to stop it. I don’t want to make more bad feelings between all of us. I just wanted you to know that there are no hard feelings. I forgive you, for what it’s worth.

I’m almost done with high school. It took me longer because of the accident, but I’m thinking about going to Berkeley after I graduate. I don’t know. I guess I’ll figure it out later.

Please say hi to your sister for me. I always liked her. She was always nice to me, too.

Dennis

Kai cleared her throat, and Kip jumped. Smiling, she said quietly, “What does it say, Shrimp?”

Still staring at the letter, Kip exhaled sharply. “Wow. I didn’t expect that. Dennis forgives me.” He looked up at Kai, eyes shimmering. “I didn’t realize how much the Peterson deal was bothering me. And to have Dennis forgive me—” He swiped at his eyes. “Powerful stuff.”

They stood silently for a moment.

Kip broke the silence. “Sis, I have an idea. But I’ll need your help.”

When Kip finally finished the rapid-fire delivery of his plan, Kai beamed.

Heads together, the siblings searched the Internet. They started with Craigslist, and conducted a thorough scouring of online classifieds. They put together a list, made several phone calls, and established appointments for that evening and the next.

* * * *

The following night, Kip decided on a 1989 Honda Accord for $500.

Kai withdrew money, and paid the owner cash.

Kip spent the following weekend carefully evaluating their acquisition and noting the parts needed. For the next several months, he worked on the car during every spare moment.

* * * *

Kai and Kip left Graceville before dawn on a Saturday morning in August, and headed for Paradise. Kip drove the renovated Honda, and Kai followed in her BMW.

They stopped at a convenience store about halfway. As they stood drinking Dr. Peppers and stretching their legs, Kai asked, “How’s she running?”

Kip grinned. “She purrs like a dream.”

“This is a great thing you’ve done, little brother.” Kai continued quietly, “I’m incredibly proud of you.”

* * * *

They arrived at Marianne’s mid-afternoon, and she met them at the door. After hugging Kip, Marianne stepped back and beamed up at him. “Son, I am so proud of you. It’s wonderful what you’re doing for Dennis.”

Kip reddened. Looking at his feet, he mumbled, “Shucks.

I’m just doing what’s right.”

Kai slapped Kip’s shoulder. “What’d I tell you, Shrimp?

You’re a good guy. Own it.”

* * * *

Just before midnight that night, Kip tiptoed next door and tucked a note into the Petersons’ screen door. He hoped that someone would notice it first thing in the morning, when they picked up the Sunday paper.

After a quick pre-dawn breakfast, Kip and Kai hugged their mom and headed back to Graceville.

* * * *

Mr. Peterson retrieved the Sunday paper from his driveway. Stepping back into the house, he snatched a slip of paper from his screen door and frowned at it. He stalked into the house, found his son in the kitchen, and wordlessly handed Dennis the note.

Dennis gave his dad a quizzical look as he unfolded the paper. “Please see Mrs. Hamilton next door at your first chance,”

was all it said. Dennis jumped up and ran out of the house.

* * * *

Marianne opened the door. Grinning, she handed Dennis a large envelope.

Dennis ripped it open. Eyes wide, he pulled out a set of car keys, a pink slip, and a smaller envelope.

Dennis,

I don’t think I can ever tell you just how much your forgiveness means to me. It changed my life. The Honda is just a token of thanks. I hope you can put it to good use when you go to Berkeley, or whatever it is you decide to do.

The car is parked in front of your house. The pink slip is here in the envelope. Don’t forget to transfer it into your name as soon as possible.

There’s a little bit in the other envelope to help with registration or floor mats or whatever.

Thanks again,

Kip (and Kaity)

Dennis turned and gazed at the Honda in front of his house. He looked at Marianne, wagged his head, and opened the other envelope. Inside was a cashier’s check for $500.

Visibly moved, he stared at the check.

Marianne touched his arm and said gently, “Dennis, it’s okay. Go check out your new car.”

Dennis gave Marianne a quick hug, and cut across the yard. Fumbling with the keys, he dropped them twice before finally opening the door. He slid onto the driver’s seat, and placed his hands on the wheel.

After a moment, he looked up and saw his parents on their front porch, both frowning. Mr. Peterson yelled, “Dennis!

What are you doing?”

Dennis got out of the car, grinning from ear to ear. “It’s mine, Dad. Kip gave it to me.”

Marianne stepped to the edge of the Petersons’ yard, and quickly explained. “Kip wanted to do something nice for Dennis.

He is so grateful that Dennis forgave him.” Seeing astonishment on the Petersons’ faces, Marianne continued. “Kip is now well on his way to getting his act together, thanks in large part to Dennis’s forgiveness.”

Mr. Peterson finally broke in. “Really, this is too much.”

“Not to Kip,” Marianne replied. “This is one thing he can do exceptionally well—he builds and rebuilds cars. You can be sure that this car will serve Dennis well. And Kip is happy to do something to help Dennis get a head start. Please say you’ll let Dennis keep it. Goodness knows I have no use for it. And Kip and Kaity are already on their way back up north.”

Without a word, Mrs. Peterson stepped back into the house.

Mr. Peterson said, “Well then, thanks… I guess.”

Marianne smiled. “I’ll pass the word along to Kip and Kaity.”

* * * *

Two years after moving in with his sister, Kip graduated with a bachelor’s degree in engineering.

Proudly watching the ceremony, Marianne dabbed at her eyes and squeezed Kai’s hand. On the other side of Marianne sat Gwen with twenty-two-month-old Kevin sleeping on her lap.

Between Gwen and Kendall, six-year-old Kendra quietly colored a pink and green dragon.

After the ceremony, they all walked outside and found Kip on the lawn with Aimi, both of them still wearing graduation gowns and talking to a gray-haired couple. Kip saw his family, and gestured them over. He hugged Marianne and said, “Mom, this is Aimi’s mom and dad, Wayne and Hannah Fujita.”

After the rest of the introductions, Kai hugged Kip, and slipped a key into his hand.

Kip’s jaw dropped. “What’s this?”

“Graduation present.”

“Your Harley? Wow! Sis, are you sure?”

“The California coast has year-round riding weather. She’ll be happier there.” Kai winked. “Besides, she told me she wants to live with you and Aimi.”

“Woohoo! Thanks!” Kip leaned down and hugged Kai again. Straightening, he grinned. “Is everybody ready for the wedding tomorrow?”

“Ha!” said Kendall. He lightly punched his brother’s shoulder. “Question is, are you ready to get married tomorrow?”

Kip reddened and rested his arm on the shoulders of his waist-tall wife-to-be. “We’re ready. Huh, Aimi?”

Aimi smiled up at him. “We are.”

* * * *

The next day, Kip and Aimi were wed in Graceville’s Unitarian Church. That afternoon, they began a working honeymoon in San Luis Obispo, where they would start master’s programs in the fall.

Chapter 23

On a rainy Saturday afternoon in September, Kai’s phone rang. Smiling, she put the phone to her ear. “Jeannie! How are you?” She gazed out the bay window at her garden.

“I’m back!”

During Kai’s first five years as an attorney, she and Jeannie had exchanged e-mails and occasionally talked on the phone, but hadn’t seen each other. Jeannie had spent those five years completing medical school and residency, and specializing in obstetrics and gynecology.

“You’re back?” asked Kai. “At your parents’ house here in Graceville?”

“Sure am. I start work at Mercy Hospital in a week and am looking for an apartment near the hospital.”

Kai laughed. “Mercy is a mile from my house, around the corner from my office. We can do lunch.”

“Oh, yay!” Jeannie paused. “But I want to see you sooner than that. Meet you at O’Malley’s tonight?”

“I’ve got a better idea,” said Kai. “Come see my house, and I’ll make you dinner.”

“You cook? Since when?”

Kai guffawed. “After you traipsed off to med school, I learned to make a mean manicotti.”

“Yum! How about I come early and help.”

“Come whenever you can. I live on the northwest corner of Second and D Streets. Rainbow mailbox.”

“Rainbow, huh? All righty then. I’ll be right there.”

Kai turned on the oven, and began combining ingredients for manicotti.

* * * *

When the doorbell rang, Kai’s mastiff-Newfoundland emitted one mighty bark.

“Good boy.” Patting the dog’s head, Kai opened the door.

Kai wrapped her arms around Jeannie and hugged her hard. After a moment, she stepped back and squeezed Jeannie’s shoulders. “You look wonderful! That haircut really suits you.” Kai looked Jeannie up and down. “You were always slender, but now you’re downright skinny.”

Jeannie chuckled. “Thank you, I think.”

“Oh, it’s a compliment.” Kai pulled Jeannie inside and closed the door. “Skinny is stylish. But you’d look good at any weight.”

“I’ll no doubt plump up now that the pressure’s off.”

Jeannie gazed at Kai. “You haven’t changed a bit. Look at you!

You’re ripped!”

Kai laughed. “Ripped?” Taking Jeannie’s hand, she pulled her toward the kitchen. “Come on. I’ll finish making dinner so you can start plumping up.”

Jeannie’s eyes widened as she looked at the big black dog standing next to Kai. “Who’s this?”

“I got him from the Graceville Humane Society last year after Kip left. He was only this big.” Kai held her hands apart. “Dr.

Marx, meet Zeus.”

“Zeus!” Jeannie crouched and rubbed the dog’s chest.

“You are one gorgeous beast.”

“Isn’t he?” Kai grinned. “Make yourself comfortable while I finish making the manicotti.”

“I’ll help.” Jeannie stood, hung her jacket and purse on the coat tree, and followed Kai into the kitchen.

Kai washed her hands. “I’m almost done. This is the fun part.”

“Oh, goody.” Jeannie washed her hands and stepped to Kai’s side.

Kai plunged her hands into a large bowl of ingredients, and began manually mixing them.

Jeannie followed her lead. “What all’s in here?”

“Cottage cheese, mozzarella, spinach, and some spices.”

Kai picked up a pasta tube and pushed the mixture into it. She carefully placed it into a marinara-coated baking dish. “How’s Nikki?” she asked. “Have you talked to her lately?” Kai knew from Jeannie’s e-mails that Nikki married her high school boyfriend and had a baby.

“She lives near Cleveland.” Jeannie paused. “You knew that Nikki didn’t pass the bar, didn’t you?”

“Oh. No. I didn’t.”

“Yeah.” Jeannie sighed. “Seems like a waste of law school.

She’s a stay-at-home mom, and her husband’s a mechanic. They have a little girl, and Nikki recently gave birth to a boy.”

“Maybe her law degree will make her a better mom.” Kai poured marinara over the stuffed manicotti. “I just can’t picture Nikki with kids. For that matter, I can’t imagine her with a macho mechanic. That must have been awful for you, to lose her not only to someone else but to a man.”

Jeannie shrugged. “It happens.” She took the empty bowl to the sink and rinsed it. “Being lesbian isn’t easy. Society sees to that. Nikki was more bisexual than gay, so she chose the straight life.” Jeannie turned off the water and grabbed a towel.

“Did you know that Nikki was ambisexual?”

“Ambisexual! Ambidextrous and bisexual?”

Jeannie laughed. “There’s another ingredient: polyamory.”

“Lover of many?” asked Kai.

“That’s right.” Jeannie paused. “For most of law school, Nikki chose to be monogamously with me. But she had a sexual relationship with a man during our last year of law school.”

“No! Really?”

“Remember that weekend trip she and I took to Coos Bay?”

Kai nodded.

“Well, the guy—I won’t tell you his name because I think you know him—he came with us. We three shared a room. And a bed. And each other.”

“Wow!”

Jeannie grinned. “That was my one and only physical intercourse with a man. And Nikki did most of the intercoursing.

After that, I shared her with him, but opted out of experiencing another close encounter myself.

“You’re a bit polyamorous, too.” Kai tilted her head. “I mean, if you can allow your lover to have another lover as well, isn’t that polyamory? But weren’t you jealous?”

“Yeah, I guess it is. And no, I wasn’t jealous. Nikki’s ability to love hugely and hungrily, body and soul, is a beautiful thing. I didn’t want to squelch it.” Jeannie wrinkled her nose. “But I never understood her interest in men. On the sliding scale of sexuality, my orientation registers as completely bent.”

Kai laughed, and began sprinkling parmesan onto the top layer of marinara. “Mine, too.”

Jeannie turned, blinking rapidly. “Really? You’re gay?

When did you realize?”

“Four or five years ago,” Kai lied. She covered the dish and slid it into the oven.

“Then my suspicions in law school were just a little premature.” Jeannie winked. “You really are ripped, my friend.

What are you doing to stay so toned?”

Kai opened the wine and placed the bottle on the counter.

“I’m in a basketball league. We play once a week.” She took wine glasses from a cupboard, and set them next to the wine. “I occasionally golf and do some yoga. But that’s about it. The boys at the firm keep me pretty busy.” She filled the glasses and handed one to Jeannie, and then pulled chicken and vegetables from the fridge.

“Give me something to cut up,” said Jeannie.

The friends sipped wine and chatted as they finished preparing dinner. Kai put the baked manicotti on the table, and they sat.

Jeannie picked up a chicken leg. “Do you believe in love at first sight?”

“Sort of. Why?”

Jeannie snorted. “Sort of? What kind of answer is that?

We’re lawyers now. We’re supposed to see things in black and white.” She bit into the chicken.

“Seriously? Black and white?” Kai sipped her wine.

“Lawyers have to see the world in various shades of gray. How else can we manipulate the system to get our way?” She put her hand over her mouth. “Oops. Did I say that out loud?”

Jeannie laughed. “Maybe you’re right. Good thing I’m practicing medicine instead of law. But aren’t you either in love or not?”

“Here’s the thing.” Kai stabbed at her salad. “I think there are situations where, when you first meet someone, there is a reaction, a chemical reaction. In can manifest in a way that we associate with how we feel when we’re in love.”

“Excuse me.” Jeannie raised a forefinger. “Why does it sound like you’re reciting a dissertation?”

“All right, all right.” Kai grinned. “I believe in enamored and enthralled. I think you can see someone and have a physical response. The knees get weak. The stomach flutters. The heart skips a beat. And yes, I’ve felt it myself.”

“You’ve felt it for women, for men, or both?” Jeannie took a bite of manicotti.

Kai’s eyebrows shot up. “Women, of course.”

“Mmm.” Jeannie swallowed and pointed her fork at the manicotti. “This is good.” She cut another piece of pasta. “You never felt a physical response for a man?”

“Nope.”

Jeannie said slowly, “And you only recently discovered that you’re interested in women? You, my sexy friend, are a very late bloomer.”

Zeus barked once from the living room, startling them both.

“He probably saw the neighbor’s Great Dane. They’re friends.” Kai bit into a chicken breast.

“Okay,” said Jeannie. “So you’ve felt the rush of instant attraction. But?”

Kai swallowed. “But it takes more than chemical reactions to fall in love.” She put down the chicken and wiped her hands. “I need to hear the woman string a coherent sentence together. I need to see her smile, to know that she can hold a conversation and laugh at a good joke. I need to see signs of life—signs of intelligence—before love can even begin to enter into the equation. Love at first minute? First five minutes? First hour?

Maybe.” Kai picked up her fork. “First sight? No. It takes me just a little longer than that before I’ll give you love.”

Jeannie applauded. “Bravo!” She laughed loudly.

“Excellent thesis!”

Hearing movement in the living room, Kai looked at the doorway. Jeannie followed her gaze as Zeus’s massive head appeared. Kai grinned. “It’s okay, Zeus.” She lifted a forkful of pasta and smiled at Jeannie. “Now quit with the third degree, and let me eat.”

After dinner, Kai showed Jeannie her back yard and the rest of the house. Standing in the doorway of Kai’s bedroom, Jeannie turned and gazed at Kai. She kissed Kai’s lips, leaned back, and cocked her head. “I’ve always wanted to do that.”

Kai grinned. “Yeah?” She took Jeannie’s hand, and led her to the king-size bed.

* * * *

Kai and Jeannie lay on their sides, face to face. Kai caressed Jeannie’s hair. “That was unbelievable. Our bodies are a perfect fit. What took us so long?”

“Life,” said Jeannie.

Kai rolled onto her back and put her arms behind her head. “I’ve been thinking.”

“Really? Aren’t we supposed to avoid that at times like these?”

Kai chuckled. “What do you think about moving in with me?”

Jeannie drew back and gazed at Kai. “If you’re asking me to live with you, you don’t sound very sure.”

Kai turned and leaned on her elbow. “You’re looking for a place to live near Mercy Hospital. This house is near Mercy, and big enough for both of us. You’re my dear friend. And we just became friends with benefits.”

Jeannie leaned back. “I think you should know something.

I secretly adored you in law school.” Seeing Kai’s grin, she continued. “Well, maybe not so secretly. But I’ve held a torch for you for years. After Nikki broke up with me, I didn’t seriously date anyone else, hoping that…” Her voice trailed off.

Kai reached out and took Jeannie’s hand. She looked directly into Jeannie’s eyes. “Dr. Jeannie Marx, will you be my housemate?”

Jeannie tilted her head and looked up at the ceiling as though listening to something. She dropped her eyes. “Legal counsel is advising me to hold out for a better deal.”

“Roommate?”

Jeannie smiled. “Yes, I will.”

* * * *

One week later, Kai helped Jeannie transfer boxes from Jeannie’s parents’ house to Kai’s BMW ActiveHybrid and Jeannie’s Prius. After four trips across town, they lay sprawled on sofas in Kai’s living room.

Jeannie yawned. “How on earth did I acquire so much stuff over thirty years?”

“You’re already thirty?” asked Kai.

“I’ve been thirty for half a year. Aren’t you my age?”

Kai winked. “I’m only twenty-nine.”

“That’s hardly fair,” said Jeannie. “When do you turn thirty?”

“Next week.”

Jeannie threw a pillow at her. “Young whippersnapper.”

“What I’d like to know…” Kai yawned, and continued.

“What I’d like to know is how you acquired so much stuff as a nomad. You haven’t lived in one place for more than five years since you were a kid.”

“My parents have a big house.”

“Aha. How’s their practice doing now?” Both dentists in Graceville, Jeannie’s parents lost their clinic in a flood earlier that year.

“Fine,” said Jeannie. “They salvaged half their equipment, bought new supplies with insurance money, and moved to higher ground.”

“Hey, what time is it?” Kai sat up. “I have a basketball game in an hour. Want to come?”

“Can I play, or would I have to watch?”

“You can play.”

“Then I’ll come.”

Jeannie rode with Kai to the gym. As they walked in, a raven-haired woman approached them. “Monica!” said Kai. After hugging Monica, Kai turned and gestured toward Jeannie. “I’d like you to meet Dr. Jeannie Marx.”

Jeannie blushed. “Please. Just Jeannie.” She shook Monica’s hand.

“Jeannie is an OBGYN,” Kai said smugly, “and a lawyer.”

Monica whistled. “That’s some accomplishment.”

“Monica Ling,” continued Kai, “is a reporter for KXNU TV.”

* * * *

After the game, on the way home, Jeannie exclaimed,

“Monica is beautiful!”

Kai gave her a sidelong glance. “Isn’t she?”

Jeannie turned toward Kai. “I sense that she’s on our team.”

“Hmm. You’re not talking basketball, are you?”

Jeannie chuckled. “And I also sense that you two are more than friends.”

Kai pulled into the garage, turned off the ignition, and got out of the car. She opened the door to the house and held it.

After following Jeannie into the living room, she gestured toward one sofa and sat on the other. Clasping her hands between her knees, Kai said, “There’s something you should know.”

Jeannie sat down, leaned back, and frowned. “Okay.”

“I don’t lie.” Kai patted the spot next to her, and Zeus leaped onto the sofa, turned once, and lay down. Stroking his head, Kai continued. “If you want to know something, all you have to do is ask. The flipside is that you probably shouldn’t ask questions that you really don’t want to know the answers to.”

Jeannie smiled. “Fair enough.”

“So.” Kai leaned back. “Is there anything you’d like to know?”

Raising the corner of her mouth, Jeannie asked, “Did you have sex with Monica?”

Kai drawled, “I did not have sexual relations with that woman.” Jeannie laughed, and Kai continued. “Okay. I lied. I am an attorney, after all. But Jeannie, that was the last time I’ll lie to you. From now on, ask anything you want. But only ask what you want to know, okay?”

“Okay. Did you have sex with Monica?”

“Yes,” said Kai.

Jeannie swallowed. “More than once?”

“Yes.”

“Will you tell me about it?”

“Yes.”

Jeannie raised an eyebrow. “Tell me about it.”

Kai looked down, and Zeus’s soft eyes gazed up at her.

She lifted her head. “Monica and I were together for nine months.”

Jeannie inhaled. “Long enough to make a baby.”

“Ha! Thank God that was never a risk.”

“When?” asked Jeannie. “When were you together?”

“About four years ago.” Kai straightened. “Actually, it’s kind of funny. We got together as a result of that McGill’s case that you told me about—the one that got me hired here.”

“Oh, really?”

“Yeah. Monica covered the case.”

Jeannie lifted the lid of the glass candy dish on the coffee table and made a selection. Peeling off the wrapper, she asked,

“So why did you and Monica break up?”

“So I could be with you.”

Jeannie tilted her head. “Is that the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth?”

“Well, no. But the question is beyond the scope of my truth-telling mandate.”

Jeannie frowned. “Meaning?”

“Meaning that I won’t tell other people’s secrets.” Kai cleared her throat. “Let’s just say that Monica and I parted amicably.”

“Fair enough. I respect that.” Jeannie rolled the candy wrapper into a ball and stood. Smiling down at Kai, she asked,

“Shall I shower in the master bathroom, or elsewhere?”

“Master bathroom. And if you’ll allow me, I’ll join you.”

* * * *

Several weeks later, Kai drove home, changed into her favorite attire, and began preparing dinner. She was peeling potatoes when Zeus barked once, signaling Jeannie’s arrival.

Jeannie hung her coat on the coat tree, patted Zeus, and kissed Kai. Lowering herself onto a stool at the bar, she said, “I’ll help if you’ll give me something to cut up.”

Kai put an onion and knife on a cutting board, and handed them to Jeannie. “Chopped, please.”

After peeling off onion skin, Jeannie looked up.

“Remember Belinda?”

Kai stopped peeling and squinted. “Red-haired Bruce’s girlfriend in law school?”

“Yeah. Bruce’s girlfriend.” Jeannie closed her eyes and rolled her head. “Thankfully, Belinda dumped him right after law school.”

“What happened, Jeannie?” Kai raised her hands. “Why do you hate him so?”

“Ha!” Jeannie hacked at the onion. “Let’s just say your don’t-ask-don’t-tell policy applies here. Trust me. He’s an asshole.” She blinked back apparently onion-induced tears.

“Fair enough.” Kai resumed potato-peeling.

“So. Belinda called me this morning. Said Liza recently called her.”

Kai dropped the peeler. Bending to retrieve it, she said,

“And?”

“And,” said Jeannie, “Liza told Belinda that she took and passed the D.C. bar exams not long after she moved there.”

“Did she now?”

“Yup.” Slowly chopping, Jeannie continued. “Liza allegedly stated that she wouldn’t dream of tainting her political future with a backwoods bar endorsement from Oregon.”

Kai snorted.

“And she married that senator she worked for.”

“Henry Galston?” Kai shook her head. “He’s her father’s age!”

“Yeah? Well, Belinda said they got married some time ago.”

“Any kids?”

“I don’t think so.” Jeannie stood. “According to the polls, Liza will probably be elected senator for New York next month.”

Kai sniffed.

Jeannie stepped into the kitchen. As she placed the chopped onion on the counter, she noticed Kai’s watery eyes.

“Hey. Onions got to you, too?”

Kai barked out a laugh and cleared her throat. “Potent stuff.”

Chapter 24

During the same summer that Jeannie moved in with Kai, Liza received a phone call from the governor of New Jersey, with whom she was acquainted through Henry. “Liza? This is Cooper Robinson.”

“Hi Cooper, how are you?”

“Not good. May I speak with you there at your firm?”

Liza glanced at her calendar. “How about three o’clock?”

* * * *

Liza gave the New Jersey governor a quick hug, gestured toward an overstuffed chair in the corner, and sat facing him in another. “What’s wrong, Cooper? How can I help?”

Shuddering slightly, he closed his eyes and shook his head. “It’s quite awful actually.” He looked guardedly at Liza. “My daughter is accusing me of sexually molesting my granddaughter.” He sighed heavily. “Of course it’s not true. But false accusations of lesser magnitude have destroyed greater men.”

“It’s a serious allegation,” murmured Liza. “Any idea why your daughter would say such a thing?”

“I divorced her mother. Sylvia doesn’t know this, but her mother had affairs throughout our marriage. The latest fellow blackmailed me with footage of my wife having sex with him. I paid to keep him quiet, and then made the long-overdue decision to divorce. It was final about a year ago.”

Liza nodded.

“But Sylvia seems to think I abandoned her mother, and as a result, that I’m an unfit grandparent for her daughter.”

Cooper blinked back tears and shook his head. “Sorry to get emotional. Sylvia and Darby are my only family. I adore them.

This is killing me.”

Liza reached out her hand and touched Cooper’s knee.

“I’m so sorry.” She paused. “How did it happen? What’s the story behind Sylvia’s accusation?”

Cooper’s shoulders slumped. “I should have known it was a setup. After preventing me from seeing Darby for more than a year, Sylvia phoned a couple of weeks ago and asked me to babysit. I jumped at the chance.” He sighed again. “Sylvia brought Darby to my house at five Friday evening, and picked her up at ten that night. The next morning, Sylvia woke me up banging on my door. When I opened it, she stood on the porch and screamed vile falsehoods. Darby sat in the car, peering at us with frightened eyes.”

“How old is Darby?”

“Six.”

“Does she have a dad?”

“We don’t know who he is. At least Sylvia’s mother and I don’t. Sylvia claims not to know either, and probably doesn’t.”

“Has Sylvia ever done anything like this before?”

“Not like this, no,” Cooper said slowly. “She does have a history of…” He pursed his lips.

“I’ll need to know everything,” Liza said softly.

“Since she could talk, she’s had big reactions. If she doesn’t like something, she raises the roof with hollering.”

Cooper took a deep breath. “When Sylvia was a teenager, her mother caught her cutting herself with a knife. There was a lot of blood. We rushed her to the hospital. She had several stitches and had to see a psychiatrist, who diagnosed her with a personality disorder.”

Liza asked Cooper a few more questions, and then stood.

She hugged him and led him to the door. “Call me if you think of anything else.”

* * * *

One year later, Cooper Robinson’s trial began. Most of America eagerly followed the sensational and highly publicized trial.

Liza used expert testimony from a psychiatrist regarding the characteristics of personality disorder, self-incriminating testimony from Sylvia and her mother, and security tapes of the interior of Governor Robinson’s home recorded on the night in question. Liza proved to the jury that Sylvia fabricated the allegations, and the jury acquitted Cooper Robinson.

Following the trial, Governor Robinson attempted to mend his relationship with his daughter, and explored the possibility of seeking legal custody of Darby.

* * * *

Three months after resolving the Robinson case, Liza won a New York seat in the U.S. senate, and resigned from the firm.

Chapter 25

In April of the following year, Kai drove home from work on a sunny afternoon. Spirits buoyed by spring sunshine, she smiled at the sight of billowing clouds and newborn flowers.

As Kai entered the house, Jeannie rushed up and gave her a long kiss, and then took her hand and led her into the dining room.

Kai gazed at the candlelit table. “What’s all this?”

“Have a seat,” said Jeannie as she stepped into the kitchen. Moments later she returned with a platter of steaks and a bowl of salad.

“Wow!” said Kai. “I didn’t know you could cook.”

“I can’t.” Jeannie smiled sheepishly. “I followed my mom’s e-mailed instructions, and still had to call her at least ten times.”

Kai laughed. “Well, look at this! It looks delicious!”

Jeannie went back to the kitchen, returned with garlic bread, and sat across from Kai. Already best of friends, the women chatted warmly as they ate.

Kai placed her napkin on the table. “That was great, hon.

You outdid yourself.”

Jeannie stood and stepped around the table. Dropping to one knee, she looked into Kai’s eyes. “Kai, I love you with all my heart. Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?”

Kai’s eyes flew open. She blinked several times. “Well, yeah. Yes. Yes, I will.”

Jeannie reached into her pocket, pulled out a ring, and slipped it onto Kai’s left ring finger.

* * * *

That night after they made love, Kai stroked Jeannie’s face and gazed into her moonlit eyes. “You are drop-dead gorgeous, Jay.”

Jeannie grinned. “Jay?”

“I’ve been calling you ‘Jay’ in my head for weeks,” said Kai. “You are so very Jay to me. Do you like it?”

“I do.”

* * * *

Six months later—a few days before their wedding—Jay asked Kai to consider moving to Washington, D.C.

The Universal Healthcare Act had reformed the healthcare insurance and pharmaceutical industries and provided healthcare to virtually all Americans. The act’s inevitable backlash reduced the number of students entering medical school and caused a thirty percent drop in physician compensation, purging the medical field of those who practiced primarily for money. It also reduced the number of attorneys by all but eliminating malpractice lawsuits.

Jay wanted to move to Washington to address a critical and growing need in urban areas for medical care and legal assistance, and also to be close to legislators so she could lobby for the human rights she cherished.

* * * *

In September, Kai and Jay flew to Palm Springs and got married. On the wedding license, Kai legally changed her name to Kai Marx Hamilton, and Jeannie changed hers to Jay Hamilton Marx. The next morning, they flew to Jamaica, and honeymooned at the Sunset Beach Resort in Montego Bay.

As Kai and Jay checked into the hotel, Kai fleetingly remembered passing another Sunset Beach on Oahu, while riding a rented Harley with Liza pressed against her.

Jay unlocked the door to their room on the hotel’s beach wing, and the newlyweds stepped inside. The suite contained a king-size bed, a whirlpool bath, and a spacious balcony overlooking the ocean. The couple gazed at each other and grinned.

“Nice choice,” murmured Kai. “Good job, wife.”

“Wife. I like the sound of that.” Jay pulled Kai into a kiss.

* * * *

The next morning, Jay and Kai boarded a tour bus.

“Yikes,” said Jay. “Sure feels weird driving on the left side of the road.” The bus parked near the base of Dunn’s River Falls, and the newlyweds and their bus-mates stripped down to swimsuits and footwear. Their guide instructed his charges to hold hands, and the human chain followed the chanting, laughing, singing guide up a gently sloping walkway in the falls.

Headed back to the hotel on the bus, Kai said, “What do we have planned next?”

“Actually, Dunn’s River Falls was the only structured activity on the agenda. For the rest of our honeymoon, I thought we’d play it by ear.” Jay frowned slightly. “Is that okay?”

“Oh, yeah.” Kai grinned. “I could use some good old-fashioned sun and surf.

* * * *

That afternoon, Kai and Jay lounged on the beach in front of their hotel. Late-afternoon rain swept across the island, and drenched them as they ran for their room. Giggling, they stripped and slipped into their private whirlpool.

After a satisfying soak, they sat on their balcony, Jay sipping wine and Kai with a Red Stripe beer. As day became night, they absorbed the first of several sangria-drenched guava and tangerine sunsets.

Hearing a chirp, Kai cocked her head and grinned. “Hear that?”

“Yeah!” Jay laughed. “Sounds like a cross between a cricket and a bird.”

“It sure sounds like the coqui tree frogs I heard in Hawaii.

They’re named for their sound.” Kai stopped and listened. “Hear it? ko-KEE?”

“Sounds wonderfully jungly.”

“Authorities were trying to exterminate coqui frogs in Hawaii twenty years ago.” Kai shook her head. “Made no sense to me, but apparently some folks don’t like their song. Thankfully, Hawaii finally came to its senses and let the little frogs be.”

“How little are they?”

Kai held out a hand. “Half as big as my thumb. They’re brown and have suction-cup toes like geckos.”

Kai and Jay listened to an increasingly raucous cacophony of coqui frogs while watching the last of sunset drip into the sea.

* * * *

The next morning, they slept in and then went snorkeling in the bay.

That afternoon, they walked to Montego Bay’s marketplace. After eating an early dinner in a small cafe, they wandered down market aisles between tables filled with souvenirs and a variety of fragrant foods.

Next to a vendor selling mangoes and breadfruit, a chocolate-skinned pre-teen boy with short curly hair grinned up at Jay. “Excuse me, miss?” He clasped his hands in front of him.

Jay glanced at the boy’s blue and gray school uniform, and smiled into his eyes.

In a rich Jamaican accent the boy said, “Are you looking for souvenirs? T-shirts? I can show you where to buy these for a good price. Very, very cheap. My friend has a shop. Tourists cannot find it, but I will show you.” A broad smile spread across his face.

Jay glanced at Kai and saw her shrug. She hunkered down in front of the boy, and met his gaze at eye level. “I’m Jay.

And this is Kai. What is your name?”

“I am Jamal.”

“Pleased to meet you, Jamal.” Jay shook the boy’s hand.

“Kai and I are heading back to our hotel right now.”

Jamal’s face fell.

“But if you will meet us here tomorrow afternoon at…” Jay glanced at her watch. “Four o’clock?”

The boy nodded.

“We will be honored and grateful to have you show us your friend’s shop.”

A toothy grin dimpled Jamal’s face. “I will be here at four.”

* * * *

The following afternoon, Jay and Kai strolled to the breadfruit-and-mango vendor. Looking around, Kai said, “Looks like Jamal’s not here.”

“Well, wait a minute.” Jay checked her watch. “It’s not quite four.” Her eyes swept the crowd and stopped. Kai followed her gaze. “See? There’s our friend.”

Still wearing a school uniform, Jamal skipped up. He threw his head back and beamed. “You are here.”

“We are.” Jay smiled. “And glad you are, too. Lead on, Jamal.”

The boy led them to a busy street and stopped. Turning, he asked, “Would you like to walk a long way or ride in a taxi?”

Jay laughed. “Let’s ride in a taxi.”

Jamal whistled and gestured, and a cab pulled to the curb. Kai and Jay slipped off their backpacks and climbed into the back, and Jamal slid onto the front seat. The boy whispered something, and the driver nodded and hit the gas.

Ten minutes later, the taxicab pulled into a large parking lot, and Kai and Jay saw an enormous sign on a warehouse-like storefront: Walmart. They looked at each other and giggled silently. Jay paid the driver, and she and Kai followed Jamal through automatic doors into the store.

Pushing a shopping cart, the boy led them to the clothing department, and flourished an open-armed gesture. “Cheap T-shirts.” He grinned. “And when you have made your selections, I will show you other souvenirs.”

Thirty minutes later, Kai wheeled the cart to the checkout counter, and Jay and Jamal followed. As Kai pulled T-shirts from the cart, the boy slipped his hand from behind his back, lowered his head, and thrust a cobalt-blue backpack onto the conveyor belt. Looking up at Jay, he batted long eyelashes and grinned coquettishly, dimple brandished. Jay and Kai smiled at each other, Jay paid for the purchases, and Jamal led them outside.

Turning, the boy hunched up his shoulders and giggled.

“Thank you.” He pulled the backpack out of the basket, and slung it over a shoulder. “Last night I told my mother about you.

She would like to meet you.” He smiled. “Will you come with me?

To meet my mother?”

“Where does she live?” asked Jay.

“Up the hill from the marketplace. Not far.”

Above the boy’s head, Jay’s eyes met Kai’s, and Kai shrugged. Stuffing a Walmart bag into her backpack, Jay said,

“We would be honored to meet your mother.” As Kai shoved the other bag into her backpack, Jamal turned and ran toward the street, whistling and flailing his arms. A cab pulled to the curb, and three boys wearing uniforms similar to Jamal’s ran up and greeted him.

Jamal opened cab doors, and the women slid onto the front seat while the boys jumped into the back. “We all live up Fairfield Road,” Jamal said as the car darted through traffic. The driver sped up a winding street. As they gained altitude, Kai and Jay gazed through the windshield at clusters of goats on the hillsides and increasingly ramshackle structures.

“Stop please,” Jamal said suddenly, and the cab abruptly halted. Kai paid the driver as Jamal’s friends spilled out and scattered.

Jamal slipped a small hand into Jay’s, and reached out toward Kai with the other. Grinning, Kai took his hand. The boy pulled them up a dirt driveway and into a small plywood home.

“Mom!” He slipped the backpack off his shoulder, and hung it on a hook. “Mom, I brought my new friends!”

A plump woman walked through a makeshift doorway, drying her hands on her apron. Timidly she said, “Hello. I am Fajah.”

Kai extended a hand. “My name is Kai. And this is Jay. It’s so nice to meet you.”

“Please. Come sit down.” Fajah gestured toward a sofa covered by a clean white sheet. As Kai and Jay sat, she hurried back through the doorway, and soon reemerged with a tray containing a dented pot and four cups.

Raising his eyebrows, Jamal peered at his mom. “May I bring out the cookies?”

Fajah placed the tray on a roughhewn coffee table, and then stood with her hands on her hips, gazing fondly at her son.

“You may bring out the cookies.” Her broad smile revealed two missing molars and a gold front tooth.

Fajah sat on a blanket-covered armchair, crossed her legs beneath her pink dress, and poured tea into chipped porcelain cups. Jamal skipped in with a bowlful of cookies, carefully placed it next to the teapot, and plopped down onto the floor.

Fajah handed a cup to Kai and another to Jay. “I hope Jamal has not pestered you.”

“Not at all,” said Jay. “We’ve enjoyed getting to know your charming son.”

“Jamal?” Fajah nodded at the backpack. “Where did you get that?”

“My new friends bought it for me.” He looked down. “They insisted.”

Fajah looked questioningly at Kai and then Jay.

“Yes,” said Jay, “as a small token of appreciation. Jamal showed us where to buy inexpensive souvenirs and saved us quite a bit of money.”

Fajah’s gaze shifted to Jamal, and he happily told her about their shopping adventure.

* * * *

Some time later, Jay stretched. “We should go. It will soon be night.”

Jamal jumped up. “The family across the street has a phone.” Dashing out the door, he called over his shoulder, “I will use it to bring you a taxi.”

As the women stood, Jay smiled warmly. “Fajah, I have very much enjoyed getting to know you and your son.” She extended her hand and pressed a fifty-dollar bill into Fajah’s hand.

Fajah’s eyes flew open, and she opened her mouth as though to speak.

Pulling two twenties from her pocket, Kai stepped forward and passed the bills to Fajah while shaking her hand. “Thank you for the delicious tea and cookies, and for the friendship of you and your son.”

Fajah looked down. “Thank you,” she murmured. She looked up, eyes shining, and smiled. “I have enjoyed getting to know you. Thank you.”

Back at their hotel, Kai paid the cabdriver. Eagerly anticipating a soak in the whirlpool and the perks that came with it, the newlyweds hurried toward their room.

* * * *

After absorbing another couple days of sunrays, Kai rented a moped and, with Jay clinging to her, buzzed out of the rental shop. Selecting a narrower street than that on which Jamal and Fajah lived, Kai rode up into the hills, keeping to the left side of the winding lane.

As the moped rounded a bend, a yellow car barreled down the hill directly at them, off the road on their side, right wheels kicking up a plume of dust.

Kai wrenched to the right, and glanced at the driver as the car flew past them. She rolled the moped off the road and stopped. She and Jay shakily stood.

Jay bent down and splayed her hands on her knees.

“Yikes!” She wagged her head and breathed deeply. “Guess it wasn’t our time.”

Kai barked out a laugh. “Did you see the driver’s face? His eyes were big as golf balls, and his mouth was a perfect O.” She giggled.

Jay joined in, and her giggling accelerated to slightly hysterical, outrageously infectious laughter. Clutching their stomachs, the couple guffawed.

Kai straightened and dabbed at her eyes. “I should have just driven on the right side of the road, like I wanted to.” Peals of laughter again erupted. Gasping, Kai said, “Let’s sit down here a minute, okay? Just until I stop shaking.” She sat on the ground next to the moped, and held out trembling hands.

Jay joined Kai on the ground, crossed her legs in front of her, and grasped Kai’s hand. “You did good, wife. Thanks for saving our lives.”

A long up-sliding sound like the first half of a wolf whistle pierced the air. Throwing their heads back, the women watched a large black bird hop from branch to branch, clicking with every twitch. Raising its wings, the bird swooped down and landed nearby. Apparently unaffected by their presence, it squawked and clicked and then threw back its head and undulated like a snake-charmer.

“Look at its funny long legs,” said Jay. “Its feathers start halfway up, like capris.”

“I know what that is,” said Kai. “I saw flocks of them in Arizona. They’re called great-tailed grackles. See how he resembles a velociraptor?”

“Oh, yeah. He moves just like the velociraptors in Jurassic Park. But how do we know it’s a ‘he’?” Puffing out its feathers, the bird emitted several truncated wolf-whistles.

“The males are black, and the females gray. I think this one’s looking for a mate.” Kai grinned. “But he’s not having much luck.”

As though offended by Kai’s jibe, the bird clicked twice and took flight, disappearing above the treetops.

Jay stood. “Would you mind returning this moped? I’d like to enjoy the last of our honeymoon near the safety and comfort of our hotel.”

* * * *

From beach chairs near the pool, Jay and Kai watched the last sunset of their honeymoon. Its stellar colors seductively settled into the blackness of night.

Jay touched Kai’s hand. “Beloved wife?” Kai rolled her head toward Jay, and smiled languidly. Jay stretched her body and turned toward Kai. “What are your thoughts about moving to Washington?”

Kai rotated her hand and grasped Jay’s fingers. “The idea is growing on me.”

“Oh, good.” Jay squeezed. “It would fulfill a longtime dream of mine.”

“You have a great big heart, Jay. You’ve wanted to help humanity for as long as I’ve known you.” Kai smiled into Jay’s eyes. “How do we start?”

“Well, I found an excellent spot for a clinic on Dupont Circle. If it’s still available, I’ll secure it.”

“And this will be a combined medical and legal clinic?”

“It will.” Jay gazed at the dark sky. “I was thinking of calling it the Women’s Medical and Legal Clinic. Not very flashy, but I think it clearly conveys the clinic’s purpose.”

“Good name.”

“I’ll continue searching online, this time for a house or apartment near the clinic.” Jay grinned. “I’m almost as happy about moving to Washington as I am about marrying you.”

“Hey!” Kai winked. “I’m excited about it, too. It’s time to give back.”

* * * *

A month later, on a drizzly October morning, Kai and Jay boarded a flight to Washington, D.C. At Dulles Airport they caught a taxicab. On the way to their hotel on Dupont Circle, Jay chatted with the cabdriver.

As the car crossed the Potomac River, Kai stared out the window and thought about Liza. Elected U.S. senator for New York the previous year, Liza worked in Washington, and most likely had a home nearby. Knowing that she had a better chance of winning the lottery than seeing Liza, Kai nevertheless scanned the faces of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

* * * *

The next morning after breakfast, Kai and Jay stepped into the chill autumn air, and strolled to the site of their new clinic.

“Nice location,” said Kai. “Right in the heart of the city’s need.” Walking back to the hotel, she asked, “When do we meet the realtor?”

“He’ll pick us up in half an hour.”

* * * *

As he drove, the realtor glanced at Kai in the rear-view mirror and then at Jay in the passenger seat. “We’re going to see the best one first. It has all the amenities you requested and then some.” He pulled to the curb in front of a townhouse with a manicured front yard. “This is it.” Under a covered entryway, he worked the lock, and then held the door as Kai and Jay stepped inside.

A half-bathroom and staircase flanked the foyer. Past the staircase, the realtor gestured through a doorway on the right.

“Downstairs bedroom, with full bath and walk-in closet.” The hallway opened into a large living room with a fireplace in the corner. Opposite the living room was a cozy kitchen with ample space for a dining table on the far side of the snack bar.

The realtor strode beyond the dining room, and opened a door. “This is the three-car garage I told you about.” In the garage he pushed a button, and the door rose quietly. “It opens onto the lane behind the home.” Closing the garage door, he continued. “Over to our left is a secondary staircase. Come, I’ll show you.” The couple followed him upstairs. He unlocked a door at the top, and stepped aside. “The sunroom.”

Jay and Kai walked into a room as big as the garage. The wall above the garage door was solid glass, a floor-to-ceiling window overlooking a lushly landscaped park on the other side of the lane. Kai and Jay made eye contact and silently conveyed delight.

The realtor had already stepped to the other side of the sunroom and opened a door. “One office.” He walked back toward them. Opening another door, he disappeared inside.

“Two offices.” Kai and Jay followed him into the second office.

He gestured right. “Both have walk-in closets.” He pointed left. “A door between them, and full bathrooms.”

Walking through the bathroom and out a door on the other side, he stepped around the corner. “Full-size laundry room.” He walked past the primary staircase and into an open doorway.

“Aside from the sunroom, this is the most spacious room in the house, with another full-size bathroom, and an enormous walk-in closet.”

“Four bathrooms?” asked Kai.

“Three and a half,” said the realtor. He started down the primary staircase.

Before they followed him, Kai and Jay grinned at each other, and Kai nodded.

At the bottom of the stairs, the realtor turned. “Well, what do you think?”

“We’ll take it,” said Jay.

* * * *

The couple returned to Graceville to wrap up the west coast phase of their lives. They found a realtor there, and placed the house on the market.

Kai submitted her resignation to the firm, and Sam and Robert accepted with a little regret and a lot of congratulations.

Sam offered to adopt Zeus. After discussing the offer with Jay, Kai acknowledged that the dog would be happier with Sam and his family at their ranch-style home in Oregon than with Kai and Jay in their downtown townhouse.

Kai and Jay bade farewell to Graceville, and headed for Washington, D.C.

Chapter 26

One year into Liza’s senatorial term, during a morning briefing her secretary handed her a document to sign. “Senator Sterling, you received an e-mail to your public account from someone who claims to know you.”

Eyes skimming the page in front of her, Liza asked,

“Who?”

“Someone named…” Harriet glanced at her notepad. “Kirk Hamilton.”

Liza looked at Harriet and blinked. “Forward Kirk’s e-mail to my private account, would you?”

* * * *

After the briefing and a senate meeting, Liza checked her private e-mail, and opened the message Harriet had forwarded: Hello Liza,

It has been eight years since I met you at my folks’ house in Paradise, but I remember you well. Congratulations on your election to the senate. Earlier this month, the good citizens of Downers Grove, Illinois, elected me as their mayor. My political career has officially begun.

I’ve followed you and your career, Liza, and it was bittersweet to learn that you married a man. On one hand, it’s excellent that you came to your senses. On the other, I’ve always hoped that, once I attained office, you might be interested in knowing me better.

Should you ever find yourself unattached, or if you’re in my neck of the woods and lonely, I’d welcome the opportunity to show you around, and more.

Sincerely,

Kirk Hamilton

Liza opened her Internet browser and tapped a few keys.

She found an article about the Downers Grove election. Reading that Kirk and his wife Kelly had a three-year-old son and another baby on the way, she shook her head and added Kirk’s name to her list of tracked news topics.

Liza replied:

Hello Kirk,

It took me a moment, but I remember you now. You were tall and handsome, and played a mean game of football. To jog my memory, I Googled you, and found the election announcement by Melissa Snow.

Congratulations on your election. I wish you success, and your wife and children happiness.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Sterling

* * * *

Liza continued to receive automated notices of

inconsequential occurrences in the life and times of Kirk Hamilton. Toward the end of her fourth year as senator, she received a headline that arrested her attention: MAYOR OF DOWNERS GROVE ACCUSED OF RAPING A MINOR

Remembering Kirk’s forced contact years ago during spring-break football, Liza shuddered. She followed the story as it unfolded.

Kirk had been mayor for two years when an underage volunteer in his office accused him of raping her. Semen and DNA analyses corroborated her allegations.

A police investigation found five other women that Kirk allegedly raped before and after his election. The women’s stories bore a remarkable resemblance to the scene of a cold-case homicide, and Kirk’s fluids matched cells that had been found on the victim’s body.

The judge sentenced Kirk to life in prison. Two days after his incarceration, Kirk used bed sheets to hang himself.

* * * *

Liza read about the last sad event of Kirk’s life, and contemplated contacting Kai. After careful consideration, she decided that the potential risk to her career outweighed her desire to hear Kai’s voice and offer condolences. Liza had already laid the foundation for her gubernatorial campaign, and she needed to keep her name free of any connection with scandal.

Liza began to actively campaign for governor of New York, and the following year won the election.

Physical intimacy between Liza and Henry had virtually ceased, and they respectfully agreed to establish separate living quarters in the governor’s mansion on Eagle Street in Albany.

* * * *

In Liza’s second year as governor, the U.S. economy slowed dramatically. Fearing another depression-like recession and in an effort to avoid one, Americans opted for change.

Ending sixteen years of democratic presidency, voters elected the republican governor of Idaho, Travis Hahnemann.

Shortly after Hahnemann took office, Liza began orchestrating her campaign for the presidency while continuing to govern the state of New York.

* * * *

In early March of Hahnemann’s fourth year as president, he announced he would run for reelection.

Later that month, Liza received an early-morning phone call from New York’s director of health. “Governor Sterling? We have a situation.”

Liza placed her hands on the desk and frowned at the speakerphone. “What is it, Dr. Prescott?”

“People in New York City, Albany, and Buffalo are swarming emergency departments and urgent-care clinics. Initial diagnosis is botulinum poisoning.” He paused. “Botulinum is one of the most toxic substances on earth.”

“Oh, no,” breathed Liza. “Is there an antitoxin?”

“Fortunately, yes,” said the director of health. “It’s called Heptavalent, and the Centers for Disease Control created a stockpile twenty years ago.”

“Pardon my medical ignorance,” said Liza, “but hasn’t the supply gone stale by now?”

“Good question.” Jack Prescott chuckled. “The CDC

stores pharmaceuticals strategically and dynamically. A pharmaceutical is stockpiled for about half its shelf life, released for sale, and replaced by newly-manufactured product.” He cleared his throat. “May I initiate procurement of the antitoxin?”

“Please do. Let me know how much of it you can acquire, and whether it will be enough. Do we know what caused the outbreak?”

“It’s in the food supply. So far we haven’t been able to pinpoint a single source. I’m afraid the evidence points to purposeful injection into a variety of foods in grocery stores.

Products in cans or glass bottles are impervious to injection. But all other ingestible items are potentially contaminated. That includes fresh fruit and vegetables, and products in plastic, cartons, bags, and boxes.”

“Are you sure it’s limited to the cities of New York, Albany, and Buffalo?”

“Literally every reported poisoning is limited to those cities. If one occurs elsewhere, I will immediately let you know.”

“Thank you for notifying me, Dr. Prescott. Please continue to keep me informed.”

Liza pushed a button. “Harriet, I need you to arrange a press conference as soon as possible. Tell the media that we have a state emergency, and that I will provide New Yorkers with crucial information.”

The director of health called again. “Governor Sterling?

The CDC only has enough Heptavalent to treat twenty percent of New York’s predicted botulinum cases, but they’re sending it immediately. We’ll have it tonight.”

“Is more being manufactured?”

“The CDC is coordinating the emergency production of additional antitoxin. They also recommend bringing in as many respiratory therapists as possible.”

“Why respiratory therapists?” asked Liza.

“Botulinum is lethal because it paralyzes respiratory muscles. If victims are artificially ventilated until they receive the antitoxin, they’ll have a far better chance of survival.”

“Assign space in the department of health for the temporary office of botulinum control,” said Liza. “You’re in charge. The purpose of the office is to coordinate antitoxin deployment and to inform the public. Hire emergency staff, including but not limited to project managers, web developers, analysts, nurses, and diplomacy-trained people to handle the phones.”

“Got it,” said the director of health. “What else?”

“Establish a hotline solely for communication between the CDC, pharmaceutical companies, and healthcare providers, and install enough additional phone lines to accommodate an onslaught of calls from frightened citizens.”

“I’ll take care of it, Governor Sterling. Anything else?”

“Delegate to your deputy directors these four tasks. One, hire enough respiratory therapists to artificially ventilate at least half of the statistically predicted number of victims and to organize the allocation of these therapists to healthcare providers. Two, coordinate procurement of disaster relief funds, starting with FEMA, and work with them to determine additional applicable sources of funding. Three, mandate the immediate removal of all foods—except those contained within metal or glass—from the shelves of grocery stores in the affected cities.

Four, arrange for biohazard waste removal to occur between midnight tonight and midnight tomorrow night for businesses and households in Albany, Buffalo, and New York City.”

“What about replenishing the state’s food supply?”

“I’ll deploy the National Guard to bring in emergency supplies and to coordinate rush shipment of less essential foodstuffs.”

* * * *

At one o’clock that afternoon, Liza stood before the press and explained to New Yorkers the emergency, its severity, symptoms of botulinum poisoning, and how to seek help if infected. She instructed those in the affected cities to place all insufficiently contained foods into thick garbage bags, seal those bags, and place them at the curb before midnight for pickup the following day. She then recited the Web address and phone number that New Yorkers could use for additional information and answers.

For the next six weeks, Americans watched with bated breath as the number of New Yorker’s with botulinum poisoning rose sharply, spiked, and dissipated. Rumors circulated that President Hahnemann had turned a blind eye on, and may have even organized, the bioterrorism attack on New York in order to ensure his reelection. Investigation revealed that the attack had been made by a group of white supremacists headquartered in Hahnemann’s home state of Idaho, providing circumstantial evidence for the rumors.

Liza’s presidential campaign manager advised her to use the rumors to her advantage, but Liza refused. “If there were proof beyond reasonable doubt, then I would owe it to the American public to inform them. But I can’t risk someone’s career and well-being for circumstantial evidence. And I won’t put America through yet another smear campaign.”

* * * *

With the botulinum outbreak finally under control, Governor Sterling held a press conference that was televised across the U.S. and proved to be the most-watched television program that night.

Liza stepped up to the podium. “I’m going to tell you what I know about the outbreak here in New York and then ask the state’s director of health to answer your questions. She looked down, and then raised her head and gazed at the sea of reporters. “A group of unhappy kids in Idaho decided to make New York pay for electing minorities such as South Asian New York City mayor Radha Patel, African American senator Gerald Russet, and New York’s Hispanic attorney general Reuben Rincon.” She lifted a corner of her mouth. “The haters are equal-opportunity bigots, extending their angst to all non-white non-males in positions of power, which includes me.”

Liza looked down and continued. “I regret being an inadvertent catalyst for the suffering wreaked upon my fellow New Yorkers.” She took a deep breath and made eye contact with reporters in the front row, on the sidelines, and in the back of the room. “I’m relieved to report that this senseless attack produced zero fatalities.”

As the room erupted in robust applause, Liza stepped closer to the microphone. “I’d now like to introduce…” She paused and smiled as the applause subsided. “Many of you already know, and I’ll be eternally grateful to, New York’s director of health, Dr. Jack Prescott.”

* * * *

Two months later, the Democratic National Convention endorsed Elizabeth Sterling for president, and her running mate, New York’s attorney general Reuben Rincon, for vice president.

Just before the presidential election, in the middle of a night in late October, Liza startled awake. Hearing a ringing phone, she fumbled in the dark until she found it. “Hello?”

“Beth, I’m sorry to call you so late, but something has happened.”

Fully awake, Liza sat up and switched on the light. “What is it, Dad?”

“Your mother is in the hospital.”

“What happened?”

“She was having some weakness and losing weight, and finally agreed to see a doctor. He ran some tests. Honey, your mother has primary biliary cirrhosis.”

Liza gasped. “The same thing Esther had! What are the odds of that?”

“Actually, it’s hereditary.” Lawrence cleared his throat.

“Your mother has the two gene variants for the disease. Odds are your sister had them, too.”

“Is it curable?” breathed Liza.

“I’m afraid not.”

Chapter 27

Liza choked back a sob. “How long does Mother have?”

“Only a few days.”

“Does Mother know?”

“She does. And she’s handling it remarkably well.”

“I’ll be there as soon as I can.” Liza threw back the covers and grabbed a pen. “Where? Which hospital?”

“We’re at Mayo Clinic’s Rochester Methodist Hospital.”

“In Minnesota.” Liza stood. “See you later today, Dad. I love you.”

* * * *

That afternoon Liza’s jet arrived at Rochester Airport, and she and her gubernatorial entourage took a limousine to the hospital. Lawrence met Liza in the lobby, and two bodyguards walked with them to the elevators.

As they stepped into an empty elevator Lawrence said,

“Beth, you need to brace yourself. Your mother has lost a lot of weight, and her skin is yellowish.”

The guards flanked the door to Judith’s room and faced the hallway, arms crossed. As Lawrence and Liza entered the room, Judith set aside the book she had been reading. “Hello Elizabeth. I’m glad you could come.”

“Hi Mother.” Liza gently squeezed Judith’s frail shoulder and kissed her forehead. “How are you feeling?”

Judith nodded at her IV tube. “They put something in there that took the pain away.”

“Well that’s good.” Liza pulled a chair close and sat down.

She looked at Judith’s stack of books, most of them written by Ellen G. White. “Got enough to read?”

“I’ve read them all before, of course.” Judith smiled. “But they comfort me.”

Liza took her mother’s hand. “I’m glad. You need comfort at a time like this.”

Judith’s eyes filled. She squeezed Liza’s hand and released it. “Could you and your father give me some time? I think I need to sleep.”

“Sure.” Liza stood. “Shall we come back later this evening?”

“Why don’t you get some sleep yourselves?” Judith closed her eyes, and a tear slid down her face.

Liza looked at her dad uncertainly. He nodded and gestured toward the door.

* * * *

That evening Liza unpacked in her room and then phoned her husband. “Hello Henry. I need to tell you what’s going on. My mother is in the hospital. She’s terminal, and I’m in Minnesota with her.”

“Oh, Liza, I’m so sorry,” murmured Henry. “Is there anything I can do to help? Would you like me to fly there?”

“No, no. No. This is hard enough for me. No sense in both of us suffering.”

“Let me know if anything changes,” Henry said before wishing Liza well.

* * * *

The next morning, Liza stepped into her mother’s hospital room and found her reading again. She leaned down and kissed Judith’s forehead. “Did they bring you breakfast yet?”

“They brought something. But I’m not hungry.” Setting aside her book, Judith frowned. “Elizabeth? There’s something I need to tell you.”

Liza sat down. “Okay.”

Judith looked at her hands. “First, you should know that I deeply regret being the source of the illness that killed Esther.”

“Surely you don’t believe it’s your fault!”

“Well, there’s more to it than that.” Judith sighed. “I don’t know if you remember, but shortly after your sister was diagnosed, we had some blood drawn for genetic testing.”

Liza frowned. “I remember that you and Dad and I gave some blood, but I thought it was to help researchers find a cure.”

“They used it for that, too. But your father and I wanted to know whether we or you were genetically predisposed to the disease. Neither you nor your father are.” Judith pursed her lips.

“But I’ve known since then that I am.”

Liza gently placed her hand on top of her mother’s. “That must have been a huge burden to bear.”

Tears welled and spilled, and Judith swiped at them with her free hand. “I’m so sorry. I know I was hard on you. I felt so guilty and angry. The only thing that helped was staying busy—

immersing myself in church work. I know that I didn’t give you the love and attention you deserved.”

“Mom, you did the best you could. And I turned out okay.”

Liza lifted Judith’s hand and kissed it. “Please don’t worry about it any more. If there’s anything to forgive, you’re forgiven.”

Judith touched Liza’s face. “I am so proud of you, Elizabeth. I love you.”

* * * *

Judith died on the last day of October. Mourning the loss, Liza ignored her own fortieth birthday the next day. Media coverage of Liza’s hospital visit and the death of her mother touched the hearts of Americans.

On Tuesday of the following week, voters elected Liza as the first female president of the United States.

* * * *

On a February morning one year into her presidency, Elizabeth Sterling rode in the back seat of an unmarked black Cadillac 777L. The driver crossed the Potomac River on I-66, and took the E Street exit.

During their initial communication that morning, Elizabeth’s chief of staff had informed her that a group of gay marriage advocates were gathering near the White House, and that additional forces were present to ensure her safety. That afternoon the Supreme Court would decide whether to make gay marriage a federally mandated inalienable human right for all states.

As her car moved slowly past the demonstrators, Elizabeth gazed at them, secretly pleased at the advances made by these people and others like them. At the Virginia Avenue intersection, a tall blond woman arrested her attention. The woman carried a sign that read “Equal Rights NOW.”

“Oh, good God, that’s Kai,” breathed Elizabeth. Kai gazed quizzically at Elizabeth’s car. She can’t possibly see me, much less recognize me, thought Elizabeth, not with these dark windows.

After entering the White House complex, Elizabeth walked numbly to the Oval Office. Closing the door behind her, she sat at her desk, tapped her keyboard, and hit the enter key. “NOW,”

she murmured. “National Organization for Women.”

She picked up a phone and punched in a number. “Hello, I’m looking for a NOW member. I’d like to get a message to Kaitlin Hamilton.” She paused, frowned, and leaned back in her chair. “How about Kai Hamilton? K-A-I.” She straightened.

“Good. Please give her this number, and tell her Liza would like to speak with her.” Elizabeth recited the number for a direct line to the Oval Office. “Just Liza. She’ll know.” She ended the call, and pushed a button. “Bryce?”

“Yes, President Sterling?”

“Please arrange a pass for Kai, that’s K-A-I, Hamilton, female, birth date September 21, 1988, birth place Paradise, California.”

“When will she be visiting?” asked Bryce.

“I don’t know yet. How long does it take to transfer iris data from the national database?”

“Not long. I’ll have her pass in our security database in less than ten minutes.”

“Thank you.” Elizabeth lifted a stack of papers that Bryce had left, and began working through them.

Chapter 28

After the rally, Kai returned to the townhouse she shared with Jay. She hung her coat, petted Bogart, and then walked upstairs and quietly opened a door. Jay had succumbed to a flu bug, and slept in the darkened room, breathing deeply. Kai gently closed the door. Back downstairs, she saw a note on her door, carried it into her bedroom, and used the nightstand phone.

“This is Kai Hamilton returning a call.”

“Thanks for calling me back. This is Susan with the National Organization for Women, with a message for you.

Someone by the name of Liza would like you to call her at this number.”

Kai wrote the number on the note. Returning the phone to its cradle, she felt her knees trembling and slumped into a chair.

Moments later she grabbed the note, shrugged into her coat, and walked out the front door. She tapped Liza’s number into her cell phone, and placed the phone to her ear as she walked down the street.

Liza answered.

Kai stopped walking. “Hi.”

“Kai, is that you?”

“It is.”

“How are you?”

“To what do I owe the pleasure?” Kai resumed walking.

“I saw you this morning.” Liza cleared her throat. “On E

Street.”

“Was that you in the black Cadillac?”

Liza chuckled. “You always were a bit psychic. It’s so good to hear your voice.”

Kai grinned. “You sound great. Just like you did in law school. Softer than the Elizabeth Sterling I see on TV.”

“I am softer.” Liza paused. “Kai, I heard about Kirk. I’m so sorry.”

“Thank you,” said Kai. “It’s been eight years, but his eldest is still in therapy.”

“Is his family still in Illinois?”

“After Kirk died, Kelly and the boys moved to Paradise, and they’ve been living with my mom ever since.”

“I’d like to see you.” Liza cleared her throat. “Can you come to the White House?”

“Um.” Kai swallowed. “Sure. Yeah, okay.”

“When can you come?”

Kai looked down at her clothes. She still wore the pantsuit she’d worn to the rally—probably appropriate attire for the White House. “How’s now?”

Liza laughed. “Now is perfect.”

Kai strode to the next corner, and hailed a cab. “White House please.” When the car arrived, she paid the driver and asked, “Where is the visitor entrance?” He pointed.

At the entrance kiosk, Kai handed her ID card to a uniformed agent. He swiped the card and tapped a keyboard, eyes darting between ID and monitor. Placing his hand on a machine, he said, “Look into here.” Kai stared into the iris scanner. The agent returned her ID card. “Thank you, Ms.

Hamilton.” He inclined his head. “Through there please.”

Kai walked through a full-body millimeter-wave detector and into a large waiting room. Moments later, a door opened and a tall woman breezed in. Extending her hand the woman said,

“Hello Ms. Hamilton. I’m Bryce Willis, secretary to the president.”

Kai’s jaw dropped. Bryce’s features closely matched her own. Closing her mouth, Kai grasped the woman’s hand. “Hello Bryce. Pleased to meet you.”

Bryce flashed a smile. She opened a door, and gestured for Kai to follow. Bryce led Kai across the frozen grounds of the White House, past the Executive Residence, and into the West Wing. Bryce hung Kai’s coat, and they took the hallway to the right, following it around a corner to the left. After walking past an office marked “Vice President” and one marked “Chief of Staff,”

they took another left. At the end of the hallway, Bryce opened a door. “President Sterling? Ms. Hamilton.”

Kai stepped into the Oval Office as Bryce slid out and closed the door. Kai stood breathlessly before the majestic Resolute desk, which she knew had been crafted nearly two centuries earlier from the British ship HMS Resolute. Her eyes darted from long golden draperies to the rich tapestry valance to tall flags flanking the desk. Framed by closed drapes stood Liza, fingertips lightly touching the desk. Kai’s pounding heart began to slow as a grin spread across her face.

Adept at the art of self-control, which she practiced for the courtroom, Kai leaned back against the closed door and crossed her arms. With each breath she mentally repeated her mantra,

“Cool, calm and serene.” Ironically, she had begun to learn self-calming as a result of living with Liza, yet Liza usually managed to penetrate her facade. And now Liza stood before her as the most powerful person in the world. Kai felt a little dizzy.

Liza glided around the desk. “Kai,” she said softly.

Kai’s gut tightened. She put on a poker face and bowed.

“Madam President.”

“Seriously? Kai, really! It’s me, Liza.”

“Yes, you are indeed Liza.” Kai swallowed. “You are also the most powerful person on the planet and you are my president.”

Liza stood facing Kai and raised her shoulders. “Kai. It’s me, Liza.” Her shoulders dropped. “You know, this is not going at all as I envisioned.”

“You had a vision about how this should go?”

“Yes. Yes I did.” Liza grinned. “Let’s sit down, shall we?

But first I want a hug.” She stepped forward and stopped.

Kai straightened and uncrossed her arms. “Well. I don’t suppose it would be right to say no to the president.” She swayed slightly, but remained rooted to the spot.

Liza took another step, and wrapped her arms around Kai’s waist.

Kai gingerly returned the hug. Emotions coursed through her body. Breathing deeply, she slowly relaxed into Liza.

Liza squeezed Kai and sighed. She rested her head on Kai’s chest and nuzzled in. After a moment she murmured,

“Damn. You feel good.”

“Yes, you do,” Kai whispered into Liza’s hair.

Liza leaned back and looked up at Kai. “I had no idea.”

Her voice cracked, and she swallowed. “I had no idea how much I’ve missed you.” She stood on tiptoe and lifted her face. Their lips touched. Kai and Liza stood in the Oval Office, melting into a kiss that swam and swirled as the world disappeared.

Liza finally pulled away. “Come on,” she said gruffly. “Let’s sit. I don’t know about you, but I feel faint.” She took Kai’s hand and pulled her to a white sofa. Still holding hands, they sat down and faced each other, knees touching. Liza gazed into Kai’s eyes and said, “Welcome to the White House.”

“Shucks,” Kai drawled. “Thanks, ma’am.” She leaned back and smiled proudly. “This is truly amazing. I always knew you would do it. And now, here you are.”

“Thanks, Kaitlin. That means a lot.”

Kai drew back. “What did you call me? You don’t call me Kaitlin!”

Liza’s eyes continued to smile but her mouth pursed smugly. Kai looked down and shook her head. Just like old times, Liza had disarmed her.

Liza leaned forward. “I mean it. It always mattered what you thought.” She squeezed Kai’s hand. “Your belief in me helped me keep going until I got here. Sometimes I took you for granted back then, but I did love you. Still do. More than I’ve ever loved anyone else.” She lifted Kai’s hand and kissed it. “I’m sorry that I didn’t properly appreciate you. And I’m sorry we lost touch.

Is there any way you can forgive me?”

Stunned, Kai stared at their hands.

With her free hand Liza gently touched Kai’s chin and pulled Kai’s gaze to her own. “Kai? Will you forgive me?”

Kai opened her mouth and closed it. She took a deep breath and looked around the Oval Office. “I need a minute. Um, how much time do we have?”

“As much time as we want. As much time as you need.

I’m done for the day, so my time is now my own.” Liza tossed her head. “Okay. My time belongs to the American public.” She squeezed Kai’s hand. “But I have no more appointments today.

My evening belongs to you.”

Kai coughed. Looking down, she said, “I hate exploring old wounds. But if you don’t work through them, they tend to fester.” She leaned into the sofa’s cushion and took several breaths, and then continued slowly. “I’ve spent a lot of time working through us and trying to get over you. Losing touch with you crushed me to the core. But I found a way to move on. I had to.” She sighed. “Suddenly my feelings for you are as strong as ever. So much has happened since then. You’re married. I’m married.” Kai licked her lips and looked sidelong at Liza. “Do you remember Jeannie, Nikki’s roommate in law school?”

Liza smiled.

“We’re married. Jeannie and I are married.” Kai jumped to her feet and began to pace. “How can I explain this to her? What the hell am I thinking?” She turned to face Liza and stopped. Her shoulders sagged. “Liza, I would have given anything to stay in your life. I wanted so much to grow old with you, to support you in achieving the White House. I was even willing to stay on the sidelines so that no one would find out about us.”

Kai slowly sat on the sofa several inches from Liza, and clenched her fists. “When you didn’t call me while my dad was dying, I assumed you didn’t care, that you wanted a clean break.

I figured we weren’t as important to you as we were to me.” She leaned back and crossed her arms. “I finally had to give up the hope of a life with you. It took a long time. Getting over you was hell. And I obviously didn’t do a complete job of it.”

Liza opened her mouth and leaned forward.

“Wait.” Kai uncrossed her arms and turned. Locking eyes with Liza she said, “Please. I’m not finished yet.”

Liza nodded.

Kai shifted to face Liza. “A few minutes ago when you kissed me, I forgot obligations to family, work, friends, everything that’s become important to me since you left.” She wagged her head. “It makes no sense, and yet it does. You and I—the we that is us—always had that effect on me.”

Liza placed her hand on the sofa between them, palm up.

“It’s not right! It doesn’t seem right that I could turn my back on everything to be with you again. But I think I could.” Kai raked her fingers through her hair. “What is wrong with me! How can I consider walking away from everything because of one kiss?” She turned to face the Resolute desk. “This was a mistake. I shouldn’t have come.”

Liza scooted closer. Taking Kai’s hand, she whispered,

“I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt you.” She cleared her throat and spoke aloud. “I’m not asking for anything that you don’t want to give. I just wanted to see you again. If you need to vent, then vent. If you want me to hold you, I will. I’m here for you, whatever you need.”

Kai drew a ragged breath. “I’m sorry, Liza. That all came pouring out, and I don’t even know where it came from. I obviously didn’t do a very good a job of burying you.” She barked out a laugh. “Burying my dad was excruciating. But the worst of the pain lifted after a few months. You, on the other hand…” Kai wagged her head again. “When I left to be with my dad before he died, I thought you and I would have another chance to talk about the future. I thought when you read my note you would…”

She looked down. “Oh, I don’t know!”

Liza drew back and stared. “Wait a minute. What note?

What are you talking about?”

Kai raised her head and frowned. “I left you a note. On your bed.” She rolled her eyes. “Please don’t tell me you didn’t see the note.”

Liza snorted. “I didn’t see the note.” She shook her head sadly and exhaled. “After trying and trying to reach you from Washington, when I got back to Graceville you were gone. I couldn’t figure out why you’d vanished without a word.” She gazed at Kai. “The morning of graduation, when you finally answered your phone and told me your dad died, I wanted to talk it over with you, to somehow help you. Understandably, you were too sad to talk. But you didn’t call back. And you didn’t answer your phone. I wondered if you found someone else, or if you were finally angry enough with me for hiding our relationship that you moved on.” Liza looked down at their clasped hands.

“When I finally talked to you, my life was at full speed in Washington. I wasn’t nearly as sympathetic as I wish I’d been.

I’m so sorry, Kai.”

“Neither was I,” Kai replied quietly. “I’m sorry as well. I shouldn’t have assumed things. But it sounds like we both did.”

She shot Liza a lopsided smile. “But we’re here now.”

“Yes we are. Shall we make the best of it?”

Kai nodded once.

Liza bent forward and kissed Kai, gently at first, and then harder and longer. She leaned back and pulled Kai on top of her.

Moments later, Kai slid off and sat up. “Liza, I want to make love to you again. But it can’t be here. I just can’t.”

Liza raised a finger. “I’ve got an idea. Give me five minutes, ten tops. Wait here.” She jumped up and walked to the door. Opening it, she murmured a few words to someone on the other side, and then stepped into the hallway and closed the door behind her.

Kai sighed deeply and relaxed into the soft sofa. With shining eyes she looked around the room, absorbing her surroundings like a schoolgirl at a rock concert.

* * * *

A man wearing a black suit and an earpiece stepped into the Oval Office, and stood just inside the door. Kai straightened and looked over her shoulder at him. He held his hand to his ear as if listening to something in the earpiece. He then stepped forward, strode across the room to a door on the other side, and said, “Ma’am, if you’ll follow me, please.”

Kai stood and followed the man outdoors, into the twilit Rose Garden. He led her past the garden, into the Entrance Hall of the Executive Residence, and up a wide staircase. At the landing, he stepped aside and gestured right, toward a hallway.

“This way please.” A woman wearing a black pantsuit stood at the end of the hall next to a closed door. As Kai approached, the woman opened the door and said, “West Sitting Hall, ma’am.

The president will be with you shortly.”

Kai stepped into the room, and heard the door close behind her. She walked slowly toward an ornately carved chair upholstered in red velvet. Before Kai could sit, Liza opened a door on the left.

Liza stood in the doorway wearing a sheer black negligee, her curvy body reflecting the inviting smile on her face.

“Welcome to the President’s Bedroom.”

Chapter 29

Kai peered past Liza at a large, obviously antique, canopied bed. “So. Do you live here full time? And if I may ask, where is your husband?”

Liza chuckled. “I live here full time, yes. And Henry’s rooms are on the other side of the house.” Liza took Kai’s hand and led her across the room to the bed. She pulled Kai down on top of her and wrapped arms and legs around her.

Their mouths touched, warm and soft. Lips parted and tongues darted, dancing a slow and tender ballet. As though no time had passed since law school, their kiss quickly gained momentum. Clothes vanished, and they pulled back covers and sank, skin against skin, into a down mattress covered by crisp linens.

Gently sucking Liza’s lower lip, Kai slid her fingers along Liza’s neck and through her hair.

Liza pulled her mouth away from Kai’s and kissed her way to an erect nipple. Her mouth traced lazy circles around it and then drew it in, flicking the tip with her tongue as she sucked.

She slipped her thumb and index finger into her mouth, and gently pinched Kai’s nipple. Kai moaned.

Liza pulled her hand away, found Kai’s other nipple, and used her wet fingers to squeeze and tease. Electricity shot through Kai’s body. She arched her back and began panting.

“Please,” Kai breathed. “I need to feel you inside me.”

Liza took the other nipple into her mouth as her hands slid down the center of Kai’s body. She lightly grazed Kai’s inner thigh with her fingertips. Kai moved her legs farther apart.

Still kissing Kai’s breasts, Liza parted Kai’s lips with two fingers, and used her fingers and thumb to stroke Kai’s slipperiness. “Oh, God,” Kai panted. “What you do to me.”

Liza slipped two fingers inside and then tugged them out.

Pushing in again, she added a third. She pulled out slightly and then slowly pushed in, pulled out farther, and pushed in deeply, positioning her thumb against Kai’s throbbing nub.

Another wave of electricity coursed through Kai’s body, and her legs trembled slightly. Liza slowed her rhythm and pushed deep. Finding Kai’s g-spot, Liza reached in and stroked her slick secret six-pack, flicking and tickling it with the tips of her fingers.

Kai’s entire body trembled. She wrapped her arms around Liza and held on while spasms of delight wracked her body. “It’s okay,” Liza whispered. “I’ve got you. Let go.”

When Kai’s body finally relaxed, she drew a ragged breath, and exhaled slowly. Taking another deep breath, she inhaled the aroma of sex and something else. She laughed shakily. “Liza, you still smell like vanilla. Makes me want to devour you.”

Kai pulled Liza close, and kissed her deeply. She nibbled her way down Liza’s body, tracing patterns with her tongue. She paused at Liza’s bellybutton, and peered up into her radiant face.

Grinning lasciviously, Kai said, “You know what I want.”

Liza giggled. “I’m yours.”

Kai squeezed Liza’s knees and gently pushed them upward. Slowly sliding her hands down Liza’s inner thighs, Kai moved her head between Liza’s legs and licked her. Liza’s breath quickened.

Kai’s tongue slowly circled Liza’s most sensitive spot as she kissed and sucked. Liza’s body fluttered in response, and Kai buried her tongue deeply. She alternated between gentle nibbles and slow sliding pressure until she felt Liza’s body begin to release.

Kai reached up with both hands and found Liza’s. Fingers intertwined, Kai felt Liza’s body shiver and then shake in ultimate pleasure. She continued until the last spasm rocked Liza’s body.

Kissing Liza’s belly, her cleavage, neck, ear, Kai moved up next to Liza, and held her close.

Liza murmured, “You are…” She gazed into Kai’s eyes.

“So wonderfully…” She touched Kai’s face. “Kai.”

Murmuring small sounds, they continued to rediscover familiar erogenous zones. It felt brand new and anciently familiar.

* * * *

Kai glanced at a backlit clock on the mantel. “Holy crap, it’s three o’clock!” She sat up. “I have to get out of here. Don’t you? Won’t your husband be looking for you? How on earth did it get so late?”

Liza stifled a laugh and scooted up, back against the headboard. “Henry hasn’t waited for me to come home in years.

Long before I started my tenure here, in fact. I assure you, he is sound asleep and has no idea where I am or what I’m doing. Nor does he care, I suppose.” She turned on the bedside lamp. “Ours is a marriage of convenience.”

“Wow. I’m sorry. I guess I had hoped you were happy.

Then again, this residence is really what you were after, isn’t it?”

Liza cocked her head and wrinkled her nose.

“Okay, that came out a bit bitter. I didn’t mean it like that.

What I mean is that I shouldn’t make assumptions about your happiness.” Kai paused. “Are you happy?”

“You’re right, Kai.” Liza smiled. “I got exactly what I set out to get. I got the presidency. Am I happy? Most days I suppose I am. Most days I’m too busy to think about it. I will tell you though, I have missed this.” Liza slid a hand between Kai’s legs.

Kai threw her head back. “Mm hmm.”

* * * *

An hour or so later, sweaty and spent, Kai finally got up and started dressing. “Liza, I’m not sure how to ask this. I’m just going to ask it. What does this mean? Was this just a quick roll in the hay for old times’ sake? Should I expect to not hear from you for another twenty years? I’m not pushing here, I just need to know what to make of this.” Kai turned toward the bed where Liza sat, still naked. “You know what? Never mind, I’m being silly. I’ll just handle it.”

Liza reached out a hand. “Come here, Kai.”

Kai took a small step back. “Um, no. I have to leave. I really do.”

“Just come back here for a minute.” Liza patted the bed. “I promise not to take advantage of you. I want to talk with you, but not while you’re standing over there.”

Kai sat down on the edge of the bed.

Liza wrapped her arms and legs around Kai, squeezed her tight, and whispered in her ear. “Kai, this, what we have, is the most amazing thing I have ever experienced. I don’t want it to stop. I know it’s complicated, but I’d like to see you again if you are willing. As often as we can.” She loosened her grip. “But it’s up to you.”

Kai turned to face Liza. “Thanks. I will need to figure out how to negotiate this. Not just from the standpoint of literal, physical proximity, but emotionally, too. I just need a little time.”

“Take all the time you need.” Liza leaned back, and Kai stood. “Wait, before you go, I need to give you this.” Liza opened a drawer and pulled out a pen and paper. She quickly scribbled some numbers and pressed the paper into Kai’s hand. “It’s my personal cell phone number. Very few people have this, but you can reach me almost any time, day or night, at this number.

Keep it. Call me when you want.”

Kai leaned forward and kissed Liza tenderly. With her lips still grazing Liza’s, she grinned and said, “Thank you, Ms.

President, for an incredible evening.” She stood and looked toward the door. “Now how do I get out of here without a Secret Service agent shooting me?”

Liza jumped up. Grabbing a robe from the closet, she threw it on as she walked out of the bedroom and across the West Sitting Hall, Kai following. When Liza opened the door, the agent outside it turned to meet her gaze. “Zoe, would you please see that my friend gets to an exit and a ride to her destination?”

“Absolutely, Madam President.” Zoe looked at Kai.

“Please follow me, ma’am.” She turned and led the way.

Kai took a few steps and turned back around. Liza stood in the doorway, grinning. As Kai grinned back, Liza winked.

At the foot of the stairs Zoe handed Kai her coat, and then turned and led her down a hall, out a side door, and into the night.

A limousine idled nearby. Zoe opened a back door, and Kai sank into the seat. The driver had noted her destination and drove without a word, leaving Kai alone with her thoughts.

Kai found it difficult to concentrate on any one thing. What will I say to Jay? How can I explain this? Perhaps the truth is best. Just blurt it out. Her mind began to replay the evening, leaving her warm and wistful. She threw her head back and uttered a silent scream. What have I done?

Inwardly she answered herself. The thing I have always done—fallen in love with Liza. Again.

Chapter 30

The limousine pulled to the curb in front of the townhouse that Kai and Jay shared. The driver jumped out and opened Kai’s door, and Kai stepped out under dimming stars and a brightening sky. As she unlocked the front door, she realized she hadn’t thanked the driver, but as she turned the car was already pulling away. “Dammit Kai, how rude. You need to get your head together.”

As Kai entered the front door, she drew a long breath and braced herself for a difficult conversation. Jay usually rose before dawn. But the townhouse was dark, and Kai guiltily hoped Jay was still sick and asleep.

Bogart danced around her feet, toenails clicking on tile. In the predawn gloom, Kai moved past the staircase and into her room, flipping on the light, as Bogart ran past her and jumped onto the bed. After rubbing his belly and scratching his ears, Kai stripped, packaged the pantsuit in a shrink-wrap bag, and tossed the bag into the dry-cleaning bin. She stepped into the shower, and stood for several minutes under a steaming stream of soothing water.

After donning jeans and a sweater, Kai switched on the living room fireplace, and stepped into the kitchen. Jay’s tabby sidled in, uttered one meow, and wound herself around Kai’s feet.

Shuffling to avoid stomping her, Kai started the coffee maker, scooped pet food into bowls, and placed a bowl in front of Bogart.

Tabitha dashed across the living room and up the cat tree. Kai followed her, and placed Tabitha’s bowl on the top tier. She petted the purring, gobbling cat while staring at the gas-log fire.

“Good morning.”

Kai turned. “Hey. How you feeling, hon?”

“Much better.” Jay padded into the kitchen and filled two mugs with coffee. “A little wobbly, is all.” Slowly she carried the mugs to the table and sat. “I think I slept fifteen hours straight.”

Kai crossed the living room and sat facing Jay. “Well good.” She lifted her coffee mug. “To a rapid recovery.”

Jay smiled. “How was the rally?”

“Hmm?” For a moment Kai didn’t comprehend the question. “Oh! The rally! It went well. Good turnout.”

“What do you think of the result?”

Kai frowned. “The result of what?”

Jay looked at her curiously. “Well, the result of years of hard work, of course, but…” She cocked her head. “The Supreme Court’s decision?”

Kai closed her eyes and shook her head once. She remembered that, after the rally, the Supreme Court should have decided whether to federally legalize gay marriage for all states.

She opened her eyes and looked guardedly at Jay. “I somehow managed to not get the news.”

“Well, it passed.” Jay grinned. “The Supreme Court made gay marriage a federally sanctioned inalienable right.” She laughed and lifted her mug. “I can’t believe you haven’t heard!

Where on earth have you been?”

Kai looked down and put her hands on the table. “Where have I been. Well, okay. Okay.” She cleared her throat. “I’ll tell you then.” Kai took a deep breath, raised her head, and looked at Jay.

Jay stood quickly, scraping her chair against the floor.

“The rally must’ve tired you out.” She carried her mug into the kitchen. “You probably came home and crashed. Good thing, too. You don’t want this bug.”

Kai blinked. She watched Jay add coffee to her almost-full mug.

Leaning back against the counter, Jay held the mug with both hands and took a small sip. “I love you, you know.”

Kai murmured, “I do know. And I love you.”

Jay inhaled deeply, and slowly exhaled. “If you don’t mind, I’m going upstairs to finish recovering. I figure one more day should do it.”

“Of course. Can I get you anything? Some breakfast? A newspaper?”

“Thanks. I’m good.” Jay hunched up her shoulders and smiled wanly. “I’d kiss you, but…”

“No, no. No.” Kai swallowed. She still tasted Liza.

“Understood. Quite completely understood.”

* * * *

The following week, in the Alexandria branch of the Women’s Medical and Legal Clinics, Kai met with a woman recovering from spouse-inflicted stab wounds.

Ten years earlier, Jay and Kai had opened the first WMLC

near Dupont Circle, soon followed by clinics in Arlington, Alexandria, Falls Church, and Adams Morgan. In spite of the couple’s altruistic intentions, the Women’s Medical and Legal Clinics more than supported them. In an effort to replenish their world, Kai and Jay made frequent and generous donations to the American Women’s Movement, NOW, and various other charitable organizations.

Kai helped the stabbing victim file for divorce, and shook her hand. As the woman left, Kai’s cell phone rang. Recognizing Liza’s private number, Kai stepped around her desk and closed the door. “Hi,” she said softly.

“I waited as long as I could,” said Liza. “Why haven’t you called? I miss you!”

Grinning, Kai sat behind her desk. “I miss you, too. But hello? You’re the president already! How could I presume to interrupt? I’ve been wondering why you haven’t called.”

“You think I gave you my personal number as a presidential formality? Having that number is an honor, I hope you know. And using it is a mission you’d be wise to accept.”

Kai made a shuddery sound. “I’m shaking in my boots.”

“Nah.” With a smile in her voice, Liza said, “It’s more like being wise about what’s good for you.”

“Mmm.” Kai took a deep breath. “You are that.”

Liza giggled. “I’m thinking it might also be wise for my spouse and me to get together with your spouse and you.”

Kai gulped. “You think?”

“Well,” Liza said silkily. “If we’re all friends—and we are or soon will be—then life will be smoother, don’t you think?”

“Know what?” Kai grinned. “You’re not only drop-dead gorgeous, but breathtakingly brilliant.”

Liza chuckled seductively. “So when can you come?”

“Come?”

“You and Jeannie. Dinner. At the White House.”

Kai consciously slowed her breathing as she studied her electronic calendar. “Jeannie and I are both available on Presidents Day. How’s next Monday?”

“Perfect,” purred Liza.

* * * *

That night after dinner, Kai said, “Got a call from the president today.”

Jay laughed. “Is that the first time you’ve heard from Liza since law school?”

“No. We’ve been in touch a time or two.”

“Well, what did she say?” asked Jay.

“She invited us to dinner at the White House on Monday.”

“Oh, goody.” Jay clapped her hands. “The president’s house on Presidents Day.”

* * * *

Kai and Jay donned power suits and winter coats, and hailed a cab to the White House. After the security screening, they walked through the full-body millimeter-wave detector, and met Bryce in the waiting room.

Extending her hand, Bryce said, “Nice to see you again, Ms. Hamilton.”

Kai saw a puzzled frown cross Jay’s face. Quickly Kai said, “Bryce? Meet my wife, Dr. Jay Marx.”

Bryce shook Jay’s hand and opened a door. “Please follow me.” She led Kai and Jay across the grounds and into the Entrance Hall of the Executive Residence. Gesturing toward a sofa, Bryce said, “Please have a seat.”

Moments later, Kai and Jay stood as Liza strolled in.

“Jeannie!” Liza hugged Jay and then Kai. Taking both of their hands, she led them down the hall and through a door into an enormous dining room, and to a table that spanned the room.

“We’ll only use this end of the table for our little party.” She pulled out two chairs. “Have a seat. I’ll go get Henry.”

After Liza left, Jay whispered, “What a beautiful dining room. Look at this antique china.” She stroked a spoon.

“Sparkly.”

Kai grinned. “Are we having fun yet?”

Jay grinned back. “Indeed we are.”

Liza returned, followed by a tall handsome gentleman that Kai and Jay recognized from media coverage of the White House.

“Henry,” said Liza, “I’d like you to meet two of my oldest and dearest friends.” After introductions, the First Couple seated themselves across from Kai and Jay, and a server brought minestrone.

“How long have you ladies been in Washington?” asked Henry as he stirred his soup.

Kai looked at Jay. “We’ve been here ten years now, haven’t we?”

“We have.” Jay smiled at Henry, and then gazed at Liza.

“It was such a thrill to see you elected president.”

Liza laughed. “For me, too.”

Jay lifted her spoon. “How does it feel now, more than a year later?”

“Well, the thrill isn’t exactly gone. Let’s just say the newness has worn off.” Liza sipped a spoonful of soup. “You two have been within a short distance of me for ten whole years?”

She shook her head. “I guess we’ve all been busy.”

“You especially.” Kai laughed. “Jay and I run medical and legal clinics. That pales in comparison to the presidency.”

Liza’s eyebrows shot up. “Jay? A short nickname to match Kai’s perhaps?” She winked.

Jay grinned. “When Kai and I got married just before moving here, we legally changed her name to Kai and mine to Jay.”

“Ah,” said Liza. “The names perfectly suit both of you.”

“There’s a Women’s Medical and Legal Clinic on Dupont Circle,” said Henry. “Is that one of yours?”

“Yes it is.” Jay sipped her soup and watched the server fill the last spot on her plate with mashed potatoes.

* * * *

After the meal, Liza stood. “Let’s have our coffee in the East Room, shall we?” She led the way past the Entrance Hall into a room twice the size of the dining room. Gesturing toward a cluster of lavishly upholstered armchairs near a grand piano, Liza said, “How about here?”

Henry cleared his throat. “It has been a pleasure meeting and getting to know you.” He extended a hand to Jay and then Kai. “If you’ll excuse me, I have some business to tend to.”

The three women sank into chairs around a mahogany coffee table. A server placed coffee mugs and a tray filled with accompaniments on the table, filled the mugs with coffee, and left the room. Kai lifted her purple mug and grinned. “Fabulous color.”

“It has become one of my favorites.” Liza laughed.

“Probably a function of aging.” She lifted her mug and peered over its rim at Kai.

With twinkling eyes, Kai looked at Liza and stuck out her tongue.

Jay watched Kai, then Liza, then Kai. She lowered her coffee mug and focused on Liza. “Are you and Belinda still in touch?”

Liza placed her mug on the table, and leaned back into her chair. “We stayed in touch for a few years after law school.

She made partner at a firm in Albuquerque. After that we lost track of each other.” Liza sighed. “Sadly, I’ve lost track of all my law school friends.”

Kai grinned and said glibly, “Not any more.”

Jay gave Kai a curious look, and then smiled at Liza.

“Your husband is even better looking in person than he is on TV.

You used to work for him?”

Liza told them about her wedding and honeymoon, and asked about theirs.

Some time later, Kai stood. “We’d better get going. Got an early day tomorrow.”

Liza stood, walked toward the door, and pushed a button on the wall.

A female voice sounded through the speaker. “Yes?”

“Zoe, I need an escort and driver for my friends.”

“Absolutely, Madam President. I’ll be right there.”

* * * *

Several clandestine connections later, in September of that year Kai and Liza privately celebrated Kai’s forty-second birthday, and in November Liza’s. After another year of secret rendezvous and the occasional spouses-included get-together, Kai and Liza turned forty-three.

Chapter 31

On the day before Kai’s forty-fourth birthday and in September of the fourth year of Liza’s presidency, Elizabeth Sterling’s reelection campaign included a rally at the Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado.

Just beginning her final undergraduate year at the University of Denver, Kai’s eldest niece sent her an e-mail: Hi Aunt Kai!

I thought you’d be interested in knowing that I’m seeing an old friend of yours next week. President Elizabeth Sterling is campaigning at Red Rocks, and I’ll be there! Maybe I’ll get to talk to her and see if she remembers me. I wish I remembered! I still can’t believe that the leader of the free world rocked me to sleep when I was a baby.

I’ll e-mail you after I see our President!

Love,

Kendra

* * * *

The Secret Service had secured the area, and Elizabeth reviewed her speech backstage as the Red Rocks Amphitheater filled to capacity.

Right on schedule, at nine o’clock in the morning, the White House spokesperson took the stage. In a clear voice she announced, “Welcome! Welcome to Red Rocks. And to our president’s reelection rally!”

Cheers and applause thundered against the walls of the open-air stadium.

The spokesperson continued. “This amphitheater was built for music. And Elizabeth Sterling has some talented supporters in the music industry. So. Before we hear from our president… Please… Welcome… Toxic Snot!”

The crowd’s exuberance reverberated for several minutes.

The rock band played the first riff of “Shades for a Bright Future,” and the audience’s ecstasy accelerated to deafening decibels. Toxic Snot played the extended version of their smash hit “Shades for a Bright Future,” and then launched into their insanely popular “Continue the Cool.”

As the last notes of the song rang out, Elizabeth Sterling and her entourage walked onto the stage. “Hello Colorado!”

Elizabeth waited for the thunderous applause to subside while her radiant face appeared on enormous screens around the amphitheater.

Monty and Randall flanked Elizabeth, Zoe stood next to Randall, and the three Secret Service agents stoically scanned the audience.

“Thank you. Thank you all,” said Elizabeth. “The United States is in a position of peace and prosperity like nothing we’ve known before. I have no doubt that the progress made by each and every one of you has contributed to our success as a nation.

Let’s keep up the good work for the next four years! I’m proud of you, proud of this nation’s strength and resolve, and proud of our rock-solid United States!” Elizabeth raised an eyebrow and smiled into the amphitheater.

The audience roared.

Two beeps sounded in the earpieces of the Secret Service agents, alerting them that the president’s zophatomine level was on the rise. Knowing this signaled a potential threat, Zoe, Monty and Randall carefully scanned the crowd, all senses alert.

The earpieces of the Secret Service agents transmitted a rapid triple beep, indicating imminent harm to the president. Zoe sidestepped to stand in front of Elizabeth, facing the crowd and presenting a human shield. Monty and Randall swung around Elizabeth, backs to the audience and shoulders touching, providing an additional shield.

The sound of a shot cracked and ricocheted across the amphitheater. The crowd’s roar dissipated, replaced by a collective gasp.

Someone shouted. Several people screamed. Monty and Randall gently and effortlessly lifted Elizabeth, and carried her backstage.

A crescendo of terror arose from the audience as White House staffers rushed from backstage. Surrounding Zoe’s fallen form, one of them began CPR while another looked for a pulse.

The spokesperson returned to the stage. “Please remain calm. The situation is under control.” She waited as the crowd quieted. “The president is unharmed. However, she will make no further appearance today. Please calmly exit the amphitheater.”

* * * *

Elizabeth sat backstage, trembling. “Zoe.” She looked up at Monty. “Is Zoe okay?”

“No Madam, head shot, died instantly. But you’re okay, and that’s what matters in our world.”

“Oh, God!” cried Elizabeth. “Why couldn’t it have been you?”

Monty snorted. “Thanks.”

Elizabeth leaped to her feet and shoved six-foot-five Marty so hard that he almost lost his balance. “The bullet would’ve hit your armor!” She shoved him again. “You would have survived!”

She choked back tears. “Zoe died because she’s my height and the shooter aimed for my head.”

Monty put a finger on his earpiece and listened. Focusing on Elizabeth he said, “They got him.”

Elizabeth slumped back down on the chair.

Monty continued. “He was behind a rock crevice halfway up the wall.”

“Why?” breathed Elizabeth.

“They’re investigating how he got past us, and questioning him now. But the first thing he said was—brace yourself, Madam—’Did I kill the cunt?’” Monty tilted his head and listened again. “The shooter belongs to of a group of whackos called

‘Liberation from Emasculation.’ His surname is Hellman, and his mother named him Oglethorpe. Probably a source of his rage for women.”

* * * *

Kendra had been sitting in the ninth row of the amphitheater with some college friends when she saw the woman with the president slump to the ground. Hearing a gunshot, Kendra gasped. Her hand flew to her mouth and muffled her scream. Suddenly standing, she stared in horror as blood oozed from the fallen woman’s forehead and people ran from backstage.

The man in the seat in front of Kendra turned and charged, knocking Kendra back into her seat. He and several others fled up the stone bleachers, bruising people along the way and knocking some of them to the ground.

The spokesperson’s soothing voice calmed the people near Kendra. Kendra stood and moved with them as they slowly shuffled toward an exit. Hearing an agonized scream in the distance, she shuddered. Another scream ended abruptly as though snuffed out.

Kendra’s mind numbed, mercifully buffered by shock.

During the short ride back to the university, she slumped silently against a rear door, barely noticing her classmates’ excited chatter.

* * * *

Relieved to find her dorm room empty, Kendra fell onto her bed and wept.

Some time later she heard a buzz. Sitting up and clearing her throat, she snatched her phone from the nightstand and pushed the send button. “Hello?”

“Oh, thank God!” Kai drew a ragged breath. “Are you all right?”

Crying again, Kendra choked, “Yeah. Oh, Aunt Kai! It was awful!”

“I can only imagine.” Kai paused. “The news is reporting that Elizabeth is okay.”

“She is. At least I think she is. The spokesperson announced that the president was unharmed. But I never saw her after the shooting.”

“It’s such a relief to hear your voice,” breathed Kai. “I’ve been trying to reach you since it happened.”

“I left my phone in my room.”

“Do your mom and dad know you were at Red Rocks?”

“Yeah they do.”

“Call them, Sweetpea. I’m sure they’re worried.”

Kai ended the call, and immediately speed-dialed Liza’s private number. Still no answer. She returned to her half-finished report, and forced herself to concentrate.

* * * *

Late that afternoon as she rapidly typed yet another report, Kai’s news tickler window popped up on the screen: PRESIDENTIAL PRESS CONFERENCE TONIGHT AT SIX

Kai glanced at the time displayed on the monitor, and stood. Thirty minutes later she arrived at her townhouse and parked in the garage. She dashed up the secondary staircase along the garage wall, and sprinted into the sunroom.

“Welcome home,” said Jay. Legs curled beneath her, she sat on the sofa, stroking Tabitha’s belly.

“Did you hear what happened?” asked Kai.

“I did. I’m watching the news on it now.” Jay lifted a beverage from the coffee table, and returned her focus to the television screen.

Kai plopped down in a chair, and Bogart leaped onto her lap.

“Live from the White House, we now take you to President Elizabeth Sterling.” The camera panned across a room full of reporters.

“Hey,” said Jay. “That’s where we had coffee with Liza.

And that’s the chair I sat in!” She giggled.

The screen displayed a close-up of Liza entering the East Room and approaching a podium.

* * * *

Gazing at the audience, Liza said, “Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for being here.” She paused. “As you’ve heard, this morning there was an assassination attempt in Colorado. Since then I’ve received reports of all sorts of wild rumors. I’m here to set the record straight.”

Liza lifted a glass from behind the podium and took a sip.

Setting the glass down, she continued. “I’m still a little shaken.

But I am completely unharmed, thanks to the heroic work of the Secret Service.” She looked down for a moment, and then her gaze swept the crowd. “One paid the ultimate price. Zoe…” Her voice cracked, and she swallowed hard. “Zoe McDonald will be deeply missed, professionally and personally.”

Liza took another sip of water and a deep breath.

“Questions?”

“How many shots were fired?”

“One.”

“Who fired it?”

“Oglethorpe Hellman.”

“How did he get past Secret Service?”

“That’s still under investigation.”

“Why did he do it?”

“Misogyny.”

“Was anyone else hurt?”

“There were several minor injuries. Eight people were hospitalized. All of them are expected to fully recover.”

“Will you ever appear onstage at Red Rocks again?”

Liza smiled. “After we close the hole that made Hellman possible, yes.”

Light laughter rippled through the room.

“Thank you again.” Liza stepped back, and strode across the stage and out of the East Room.

* * * *

Jay muted the television and turned to Kai. “Close call!”

Seeing tears streaming down Kai’s face she said, “You okay, hon?”

Kai swiped at her face with the back of her hand. “I’m okay. Just hard to see my former roommate and friend almost killed. Not to mention nearly losing our president.” Bogart licked Kai’s face.

“Yeah. I get that.” Jay’s brow furrowed, and she shook her head. “It’s so clear that you love her. Too bad you didn’t discover your orientation earlier.”

Kai blinked.

“With your skills, you’d have bent Liza for sure.” Jay grinned. “And we’d have someone from our team in the White House.”

* * * *

The morning after the assassination attempt, Liza phoned Kai.

“Hello!” said Kai. “Thank God you’re still with us.” She laughed shakily.

“I’m glad to be alive.” Liza sighed. “But Zoe…”

“I know,” said Kai. “And I’m so sorry. But Zoe died for her country, and for her president. It’s how she would have wanted it.

And she’ll be forever remembered as a hero.”

Liza sniffed. “I’d like to see you. Are you available tonight?”

“I am,” said Kai. “The usual time and place?”

* * * *

That night at eleven, Kai heard wheels on wet pavement coming to a stop. She opened the front door of her townhouse, and watched Liza’s driver emerge with an umbrella. He opened the rear door, handed Liza the umbrella as she stood, and jumped back into the car.

Kai closed and shook the dripping umbrella while Liza stepped inside and removed her coat and hat. The women quietly stepped past the stairs and into Kai’s room, and Bogart dashed in behind them.

After closing the door, Kai threw the umbrella and coat and hat onto a chair, and wrapped her arms around Liza.

Kai cleared her throat and stepped back. Looking Liza up and down, she said, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you wearing jeans and a T-shirt.”

Liza smiled. “Life’s short. Be comfortable.”

Kai laughed softly. “You sure look good in them. But you look good in anything.” She winked. “Out of anything, too.”

Liza’s eyes flew open, and she looked at the door. “What was that?”

“What?” Kai frowned.

“That noise. It sounded like the plodding footsteps of a herd of turtles.”

Kai grinned. “Heavy-footed Tabitha usually stays upstairs at night. She missed the class where they teach cats to be light on their paws.”

Liza stifled a laugh. Standing on tiptoe, she gave Kai a quick kiss. “Happy Birthday.”

“You remembered.” Kai grinned. “I sure didn’t expect that, especially after what you’ve been through.”

Stepping to the chair, Liza rummaged through her coat pockets and pulled out a package. Smiling, she handed the package to Kai.

Kai ripped off the wrapper and laughed. “A Harley watch!”

She pulled it out of the box, and snapped it onto her wrist. “I love it!” She kissed Liza’s forehead. “Remember that Harley ride we took in Hawaii?”

“Of course,” said Liza. “That’s what this watch commemorates.”

Kai flopped down on the bed and leaned against the headboard. “Did I tell you I owned a Harley for a while?”

“No! I’m sorry I missed that.” Liza slipped off her shoes and sat on the edge of the bed.

“I gave it to Kip.”

“Aha. You Hamiltons seem to have a tradition of handing down wheels.” Liza laughed. “Does Kip still have the Harley?”

“Last I knew, he did. He still has the Volkswagen Bug, too.”

“You’re kidding! I thought all Bugs had long ago gone to car heaven.” Liza shook her head. “Kip’s must be the only one left on the planet.”

Kai grabbed a pillow and put it behind her head. “Kip and Aimi have a big house in San Luis Obispo with a huge garage.

Kip’s son Zane inherited his mechanical genius. The two of them are always restoring or repairing something. And together they’re keeping the Bug alive.”

“How old is Zane?”

“He’s twelve.” Kai lifted her arms and stretched. “Zuri and Zoe are four.”

“Zoe!”

“Nice coincidence.” Kai smiled softly. “Zoe McDonald’s heroic exit will always be remembered. And her name lives on in my niece.”

After a moment of silence, Liza lifted her legs and sat cross-legged facing Kai. “Funny,” she said. Your parents gave you and your siblings names that start with K, and Kendall followed their lead.” She leaned forward. “But Kip, the last of your siblings, started the names of his children with the last letter in the alphabet.”

“Ha! Hadn’t thought of that.” Kai frowned. “Kirk and Kelly’s kids are Seth and Damien.” She rolled her eyes. “So much for symmetry.”

Liza grinned. “Fascinating.”

“Dang!” Kai raised her hands and counted on her fingers.

“Baby Kip has been married for fifteen years!” She sighed.

“Okay. Now I feel old.”

“You and Jay have been married almost that long, haven’t you?”

“Thirteen years this month,” said Kai.

“Eighteen years for Henry and me.”

“C’mere,” said Kai. “Let’s relieve our beloved spouses of the burden of sexually satisfying us, shall we?”

* * * *

Later that night, after Liza summoned her driver, Kai quietly opened her front door. Liza’s car was just pulling to the curb. Kai squeezed Liza’s hand and whispered, “Be well, my love.”

Neither Kai nor Liza saw the curtain behind the window of the upstairs bedroom drop down as Liza’s car drove away.

* * * *

Later that year, Kai watched with pride as the vast majority of American voters reelected Elizabeth Sterling.

Chapter 32

Kai and Jay celebrated the holidays in Paradise, as they did most years. After their flight landed in Sacramento, they rented a small car, and Kai drove up the mountain.

Arriving at dusk, Kai parked at the curb in front of her mom’s house. She glanced at the vehicles in and around the driveway. “Looks like everyone’s already here.”

Shrieking, Zuri and Zoe ran out of the house, black curls dancing. Jay and Kai crouched down, and each received a fierce hug from a four-year-old. The twins’ brother Zane and Kirk’s younger son Damien, both twelve, walked up as Jay and Kai stood. After hugging their aunts, the boys pulled suitcases out of the trunk and carried them upstairs.

Kai and Jay stepped into the house, and Kendra met them at the door.

Kai stepped back and looked at her tall blond niece. “How can it be that you’re prettier every time I see you?”

Kendra smirked. “Word is, I look exactly like you did at twenty-two.”

Kai smirked back. “Pretty is as pretty does.” She winked.

“Hey, where is that strapping young brother of yours?”

“Kevin’s upstairs playing computer games with Seth.”

Kai’s gaze shifted. “Kelly!” Kai pulled Kirk’s widow of ten years into a hug, and then smiled into Kelly’s eyes. “Your Damien looks a bit like Frankie Jonas did at his age.”

Kelly beamed. “He is one gorgeous kid, inside and out.”

“How’s Damien’s big brother?” asked Jay.

Kelly glanced down. “Seth is doing better.” She smiled and tossed her head. “Definitely better. Come on. Mom’s in the kitchen.”

Marianne stood at the stove, face flushed and radiant.

“Mama!” Kai wrapped her arms around Marianne. “Merry day before the day before Christmas!”

Marianne kissed Kai’s chin. “I’m so glad you two are here.” She reached up and hugged Jay. “All of my chickens are back in the nest!”

Gwen turned off the faucet, and walked toward Jay and Kai. “How was the trip?”

“Quick!” said Jay.

Kai looked around. “Where’s Kendall?”

“I’m here.” Kendall strolled into the kitchen, and warmly greeted his sis and sis-in-law.

Marianne carried a bowl of broccoli to the dining table, and Gwen fol owed her with a platter of pork chops. Zuri and Zoe skipped into the dining room, followed by Kip and Aimi. The twins climbed up onto their chairs while their parents greeted Jay and Kai.

Marianne put her hands on her hips. “Will someone please round up the rest of the kids for dinner?”

The seven cousins and their adults chatted and feasted and joked.

As Kendra put the last plate in the dishwasher, Marianne asked, “Movie tonight?”

Kendra straightened and gazed at Marianne, eyes twinkling. “Whatever shall we watch, Nana?”

Putting a container of leftovers in the fridge, Seth groaned. “Not ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ again.”

Kevin punched Seth’s arm and sang, “You love it. Admit it.”

Seth snatched the towel from Kevin’s hand, twirled it, and snapped.

“Ow!” Kevin glanced at a reddening spot on his arm.

Curling his fingers, Kevin shrilled, “I’ll get you, my cousin.” He grabbed another towel and chased Seth upstairs, both of them hollering raucously.

The family gathered in the den as Damien searched for the movie.

Tiny Aimi cuddled into Kip. Zuri climbed onto her lap, and Zoe onto Kip’s. Hugging Zuri, Aimi gazed at Kirk’s widow. “Kelly?

You and the boys are moving?”

Kelly glanced at Marianne and smiled. “We’ve taken advantage of Mom’s generosity for long enough.”

“Good grief and grits!” said Marianne. “You pull more than your weight around here. And I love having you and the boys with me.”

“We’ll be right around the corner, Nana.” Damien grabbed a pillow and plopped down on the carpet next to Zane.

“We’re buying the Crandalls’ house,” said Kelly as Zoe climbed into her lap. “They’re moving to Yuma.”

* * * *

Some time later, as the credits rolled, Jay asked, “Kendra, what do you plan to do after you graduate from college?”

“Funny you should ask, Aunt Jay.” Kendra glanced at her dad, and Kendall winked at her. “I’ve been accepted into the physician assistant program at George Washington University.”

“That’s only a few miles from our townhouse,” said Kai, smiling broadly.

“Yeah and I was thinking maybe if you two don’t mind I could live with you for the two years it’ll take me to get a P.A.

Master’s, and I’d help out with housework and whatnot, but only if it’s really truly okay with both of you.” Kendra stopped for breath.

Kai laughed. “That was some speech. Your Aunt Jay and I’ll talk about it tonight, Sweetpea, and let you know.”

“We don’t need to talk about it,” said Jay. “You’re welcome in our home for as long as you’re willing to put up with us.”

“And you know how I feel about having you around.” Kai grinned. “How soon can you come?”

“Classes start in August. Would you mind if I fly in the first of the month?”

“Perfect,” said Jay.

“Oh, thank you, Aunties!”

* * * *

On the flight home, Kai squeezed Jay’s hand. “Thanks for your willingness to accommodate Kendra.”

“She’s a great kid,” said Jay. “It’ll be fun.”

“I think I’ll give her my office,” said Kai. “That way she can take the garage stairs to the sunroom, the doorway at the top into her room, and never disturb your privacy.”

“Nor I hers. We can all grab sleep whenever we can without waking one another.” Jay squeezed Kai’s hand. “I’ll share half my office with you. It’ll be a cinch moving your stuff across the hall.”

* * * *

During the next seven months, Kai and Jay emptied and painted Kendra’s room, bought bedroom furniture and a small desk, and acquired another set of house keys and a garage-opener fob.

* * * *

Late one night at the end of July, in Kai’s townhouse and snuggled into Kai’s bed, Liza stroked Kai’s face. “Your niece is flying in when again?”

“Next week Monday. August first.”

“Perfect. The Virginia Avenue condo will be ready the last day of July. Will you meet me there on Sunday afternoon? Three o’clock?”

“Maybe I’ll finally get to see enough of you to satisfy.” Kai arched her back and stretched. “What I’d really like is a daily Liza fix, you know.”

“I know. But you and I both know that’s not going to happen any time soon. If ever.” Liza sighed. “I’ve got three and a half more years of presidency, and a husband and future to think about.”

“Hm. I was hoping to be part of that future.”

“You are part of it. That’s what the condo is for. So that you and I can play house and pretend to be…” Liza sighed again. “What you want us to be.”

“Ouch.”

“Dammit, Kai! Why?” Liza slammed her hands down on the bed. “Why do we keep having this conversation?”

“Okay.” Kai raked her fingers through her hair. “Okay. I just love you, is all.”

* * * *

The following Sunday, Liza’s driver maneuvered the car the short distance to the condo and into the parking structure. He received notice that Secret Service had inspected the premises and cleared it for presidential occupation, and opened Liza’s car door.

Liza took the elevator to the third floor, and found Kai waiting outside the door. She extracted two keys from her purse, handed one to Kai, and said, “Next time you’ll be able to let yourself in.” Liza unlocked the door, and they went inside. She removed her disguise and dropped her bag onto a table near the door. “Let me show you around.” Taking Kai’s hand, she led her from room to room, chattering about furniture and paint. She sat in the living room, and patted the sofa next to her. “So what do you think?”

“Very nice.” Kai sat. “So nice that it’s a shame not to use it full-time.”

“Not that again.” Liza kissed Kai long and hard. “That’ll shut you up.” Standing, Liza took Kai’s hand. “Let’s do the scenic route through our playhouse bedroom, shall we?”

* * * *

After Liza left, Kai lay on the new bed in the new condo, staring at a new ceiling while thinking old thoughts.

Chapter 33

The following afternoon, Kai and Jay parked the Hummer at Dulles Airport. In the architecturally unique terminal, Kendra ran up and hugged them both. “It’s wonderful to see you! I’m finally here!”

“We’re so glad you are,” said Kai. “Do you have luggage?”

“Just this.” Kendra lifted her carry-on suitcase. “I shipped everything else to your house.”

Kai beamed at her niece. “It’s your house now.”

* * * *

Parked in the garage of the townhouse, the three women climbed out of the Hummer. After closing the door with it, Kai handed Kendra her garage-door fob and house keys, and led her up the secondary staircase.

At the top of the stairs, Kendra used her new keys to unlock the door, and then she turned and looked out the sunroom’s huge window. “Awesome,” she breathed. “Oh, God, I love the view.” The pink and orange sunset illuminated her face and glowed in her eyes.

“This is our favorite room,” said Jay. “I hope we’ll all enjoy many happy hours here.”

“And this…” Kai flourished a hand. “Is the back door to your bedroom.”

Kendra opened the door and grinned. “Oh, Aunties. It’s beautiful!” Dropping her suitcase, she walked around, peering into the walk-in closet, and stepping into her bathroom. “Wow!

Cool bathtub.”

“It’s big enough for three people,” said Jay. “I’ve got one just like it in my room.”

“Where is your room, Aunt Jay?”

Jay led the way through Kendra’s bathroom and out its other door, to the end of the hall, and into the doorway of her bedroom. “This is my room.” Jay turned. “And on the other side of the staircase is the laundry room. And down here…” Jay led them downstairs, through the kitchen, and into the living room.

Tabitha stood up on her perch atop the cat tree and stretched. “I love orange cats.” Kendra strode across the room.

She scratched Tabitha’s head and rubbed noses with her. “She’s got green eyes like Uncle Kip and Nana.”

“We have a dog somewhere,” said Kai. “Bogart! Where are you?” Hearing scratching, Kai opened the door to her room.

Out dashed a panting prancing dog the size of Tabitha. Kai gestured at the doorway. “My room.” She lifted the dog. “And Bogart.”

“Bogart!” Kendra giggled. “You are adorable!”

Kai placed the dog in Kendra’s outstretched arms.

“Dinner’s about ready.” She stepped into the kitchen and pulled several containers from the fridge.

Bogart writhed in Kendra’s arms, clearly craving the victuals. Kendra placed him on the floor, and he danced around Kai’s feet, body attentive and eyes glittering. Kai chuckled. “This little guy is a mastiff in a terrier’s body.”

Kendra giggled. “Because he’s so hungry?”

“Mostly that, yeah. But also because he’s ferocious with dogs that are as colossal as they come. Bogart apparently thinks he’s big.” Kai grinned.

Kendra washed her hands, and opened and arranged salad fixings on the snack bar. Moments later, plates full, the three women sat at the table and began eating dinner.

“It’s been a while since I talked to your Aunt Kelly,” said Kai. “Are she and the boys settled into their new house?”

“They sure are. Aunt Kelly hosted an Independence Day barbecue for the whole family.”

“Oh, that’s right. She e-mailed an invitation, but I had to decline. Jay and I couldn’t get away. Everyone else was there?”

Kai put a forkful of pasta salad into her mouth.

“Yup. Uncle Kip and Aunt Aimi and their kids drove up late Friday night. They stayed at Nana’s, and Mom and Dad and Kevin and I stayed at Aunt Kelly’s. Oh!” Kendra sat up straight.

“Did you hear about Seth?”

“Uh-oh,” said Jay.

Kendra grinned. “Seth made third place in a national math contest.”

Jay clapped her hands. “Oh, yay!”

Kendra picked up her fork. “For Seth’s sixteenth birthday last month—and also as a reward for the math contest—Uncle Kip gave him a vintage Nissan 240Z that he and Zane had restored to mint condition.” Kendra laughed. “Uncle Kip brought it that Friday night, and Aunt Aimi drove that big SUV of theirs.

Uncle Kip parked the Z in Aunt Kelly’s driveway, and put a huge bow on it.” She poked her fork into her garden salad.

“Ha!” said Kai. “What did Seth think of his new toy?”

Still loading her fork, Kendra continued. “The next morning, Kevin and Aunt Kelly managed to keep Seth indoors until Nana and Kip and his family arrived for breakfast. We were all greeting each other at the door when Seth caught a glimpse of the car.” Kendra giggled. “I was watching his face. His jaw dropped, then he closed his mouth and kind of frowned, and said, ‘Whose car is that?’ Uncle Kip said, ‘Who’s a mathematical genius? And whose birthday is in two weeks?’”

Kendra shook her head. “That’s the biggest smile I’ve ever seen out of Seth. I thought his face would split open. He jumped all over the place, hollering and hugging us all. On Seth’s birthday, Kevin tried to phone him, but Aunt Kelly said he’d gotten his driver’s license that morning and had been driving around town in his Z-car ever since.”

“Oh, I’m so glad Seth is finally past the difficulties he had after his dad died.” Jay’s eyes were misty. “Sounds like he’s going to be okay.”

“I think so, too, Aunty Jay.”

* * * *

A year later, shortly after the start of Kendra’s second and final year at George Washington University, she and her aunts sat in the sunroom and enjoyed the view of a Friday sunset. As the colors deepened, Kendra cleared her throat. “Aunties? I could use some advice.”

“Sure.”

“Shoot.”

“There’s this guy in a couple of my classes who has taken a liking to me.”

Jay grinned. “Surely this isn’t the first time that has happened.”

“Well no.” Kendra smiled ruefully. “Nor is it the first time the feeling wasn’t mutual. But I gave him a polite no-thanks talk, and he’s not listening.”

“What’s he doing?” asked Kai.

“Trying to ask me out all the time, ambushing me in hallways, trailing me from class to class.” Kendra paused. “Lately I’ve seen him off campus, too, and wondered if he’s following me. Today on the way home he was in my Metro car, but he told me last week that he lives on the other side of town.” She shook her head. “Maybe I’m just being paranoid.”

“I don’t think so, Sweetpea.” Kai leaned over and patted Kendra’s knee. “You’ve got good instincts. What’s his name, and what does he look like? We can help watch for him, make sure he’s not stalking you around here.”

“Gavin Woods. He’s at least six foot, slim, dark curly hair, with I guess what you’d call classic good looks.” Kendra shuddered. “But it’s gotten where I can barely be civil to him.”

“You don’t need to be civil to him,” said Jay. “Maybe you should report him to university authorities.”

“Maybe so,” Kendra said slowly.

* * * *

The following Saturday as the housemates ate breakfast, Kai asked Kendra, “Is Woods still following you?”

Kendra’s eyes clouded. “Often enough to be irritating.

Yesterday, between classes, he came out of nowhere and crashed into me, nearly knocking me down.”

Jay frowned. “That’s inexcusable.”

“He said it was an accident, and apologized up one side and down the other.” Kendra’s nostrils flared. “But I’m not so sure.”

“That’s the M.O. of an abuser,” muttered Jay. She turned to Kai. “Should we file a restraining order on this guy?”

“Maybe.” Kai looked at Kendra. “It’s your call.”

Kendra thought for a moment. “No. We’d better not. I think it would cause more trouble than it’s worth.”

* * * *

Tree colors brightened and temperatures dropped as autumn approached.

Late one afternoon early in the fall, Kai drove toward the Adams Morgan clinic, breathing in the smell of recent rain and enjoying rare solitude. Recognizing Jay’s ringtone, she cheerfully answered her phone.

“Kai,” said Jay, “you need to come home. Kendra’s okay.

But something’s happened, and she needs you.”

* * * *

Finding her driveway blocked by a patrol car, Kai screeched the Hummer to a halt at the curb and ran indoors through the open garage. Stopping in the kitchen, she rapidly took in the scene. Kendra sat on the sofa wrapped in a blanket, face battered and bloody. Jay sat next to her, holding her hand, and two male police officers sat in armchairs on the other side of the fireplace.

Kai crossed the living room and sat on the other side of Kendra. “Oh, Sweetpea, are you okay? What happened to you?”

She stroked an unharmed spot on Kendra’s face and gazed at her worriedly.

Fresh tears spilled down Kendra’s cheeks. “He must have snuck into the garage behind me. After the garage door closed, he came out of nowhere and threw me to the ground and ripped off my shirt and…” She squeezed her eyes shut and wrinkled her forehead. “I kicked and bit and punched and finally hurt him, and he rolled away, so I jumped up and grabbed that shovel from the wall and brought it down on his head with all my might.” She sobbed. “I think I killed him.”

“We should be so lucky, ma’am,” droned one of the officers. “Unfortunately they say he’ll live.”

Kai’s eyebrows shot up. “Do we know the attacker?”

Through clenched teeth Jay said, “Gavin Woods.”

Kai stroked Kendra’s matted hair. “You did the right thing.

You had to hit him, and hard. Otherwise something worse could’ve happened.” Pursing her lips, Kai turned to the officers.

“Where is Woods?”

“In a hospital room, with an officer outside his door. When he recovers, he’s going to jail, probably for life. This isn’t his first or worst crime.” The officers both stood. “Thank you for your statements. We wish you well.” They returned to their vehicle through the garage, and Kai punched the door button.

She watched the door close completely, and then walked back into the living room. Kissing Kendra’s forehead, she said,

“We need to take you to the hospital.”

Kendra looked up at her aunt. “I’m okay. The paramedics put me in a comprehensive body scan, and said I’m good to go.”

She stood. “I’m not going to let that scumbag take any more time than he already has.” Turning, she smiled at her aunts. “If you will excuse me, I’d like to take full advantage of that wonderful bathtub.”

* * * *

In June, Kendra’s master’s graduation was attended by her parents and brother, seventy-five-year-old Nana, and Kai and Jay. The following day, the Californians caught a flight to Sacramento, where Kendra would soon begin her career with Kaiser Hospital.

Chapter 34

In October, Kai still missed Kendra terribly, and she hadn’t seen Liza for three weeks. She phoned Liza’s private line and left a voicemail: “When can I see you?”

That evening, Kai and Jay were watching television in the sunroom when Liza called back. “Hello?” said Kai as she stepped into her reclaimed office and closed the door.

“I won’t be able to meet with you until next week,” said Liza.

“Meet with me? Oh. Someone’s there, so you can’t talk?”

“That is correct,” said Liza. “How about Tuesday?”

“The usual time and place?”

“See you then.”

* * * *

On Tuesday night, when Kai pulled into the condo’s parking structure, Liza’s driver was just pulling out. Walking through the condo, Kai finally found Liza in the living room, talking quietly on a phone.

Kai walked through the bedroom and into the bathroom, and took a quick shower. When she emerged, Liza sidled past her into the shower, and Kai waited for her in bed. After the water stopped, Kai called out, “Long day?”

Liza stepped into the bedroom, toweling her hair. “Very long. I’m beat.” She hung the towel and climbed in next to Kai.

“How about you?”

“Been doing a lot of thinking.”

Liza raised an eyebrow. “Dare I ask about what?”

“Us.” Kai smiled. “I want you to think about coming away with me when your term ends.”

“Kai, I’ve told you…”

Kai raised a hand. “Please hear me out. I just want you to consider the possibility of you and me, somewhere other than here, making each other happy, and being together forever like we were meant to be. Now doesn’t that sound wonderful?

Wouldn’t that be a dream come true? Isn’t there a way we can make that happen?”

Liza took a deep breath. “It’s a nice notion, it really is. I just don’t see a way.”

Kai pulled Liza into a hug. “Just think about it.”

* * * *

In mid-December, after again sparring with Liza about their future, Kai finally began to recognize that it wasn’t going to happen. She mulled that over for a while, and eventually accepted that loving Liza meant allowing her to choose, even if she chose a future that didn’t include Kai.

Kai tended to mull things to death—a characteristic that contributed to her success as an attorney but could be annoying as a personal habit. Alone in her downstairs bed, she obsessed on her reasons for not telling Jay about her relationship with Liza. The omission of truth felt blatantly incongruent with her refusal to lie.

Who was she protecting? Did she feel compelled to protect Liza? From what? Liza’s second term ended in little more than a year. Nothing would harm her presidency at this stage. In fact, it might do additional wonders for gay rights and acceptance if the world were to acknowledge a lesbian in the White House.

But at what cost?

Could Liza actually be considered a lesbian? She had been married to a man for more than twenty years. Any rumors of gayness would most likely die quickly. But it would put Liza’s life under a microscope. Kai would have to lay low and it would be difficult, if not impossible, to spend time together.

Kai wondered what Jay would do with the truth. Her intuition said that Jay didn’t want to know if Kai was having an affair. As long as their life remained intact, Jay would continue to look the other direction.

Kai wondered if Jay suspected anything.

And why didn’t Kai feel more guilt about the entire situation? The only rationale that made any sense was that she and Liza were just so right together. They always had been.

Combined with Jay’s apparent desire not to know, and Liza’s fierce desire to not rock the political boat, Kai continued to neither confirm nor deny the affair.

Then Kai asked herself the ultimate question: Am I merely protecting my own interests?

She didn’t like feeling that her actions could be selfish. But when she mentally played out the alternative—Jay’s pain, the risk to Liza’s career and reputation, the American public’s need to view their leader as beyond reproach—revealing the truth seemed unacceptable. The only solution she could see was to just let things lie.

Lie. To not say anything felt like a lie. To say something would open up a can of worms that Kai wasn’t sure anyone could handle. She closed her eyes. Her head hurt.

Behind her closed eyelids she tried to boil it down to some basic tenets. She loved Jay. Together they had achieved so much. They were doing good things for the community and for the women and families in Washington. And their clinics had been successfully emulated throughout the nation. Kai felt profound respect for Jay as a human being and a partner. But there was something missing.

Kai loved Liza. She had loved Liza for half her lifetime. It wasn’t going away. In fact, it seemed to intensify with every encounter. But Liza didn’t “belong” to Kai, and Kai was beginning to suspect that she never could.

Kai felt overwhelmed. She wanted her head to stop thinking, but it seemed to have a life of its own. Until she could find some clarity that resonated, she would continue to ruminate.

Kai opened her eyes and stared at the dimly lit ceiling.

She asked herself, What do you want? Nothing definitive popped to mind. She switched on a light, grabbed a pen and paper, and wrote:

I want truth and honesty

I want a life with Liza

I want what is fair to Jay

I want less stress

I want more sunshine

I want to find myself

Finally, Kai wrote:

In the absence of the life you want,

what will you do with the life you have?

It all clicked into place. She knew what she had to do.

Resonance.

* * * *

The next morning, Kai met Jay in the kitchen. After sixteen years of marriage, Jay knew Kai well enough to know they weren’t going to talk about the day’s weather. “What is it?”

Kai looked Jay squarely in the eye. “Jay, you know I love you, right?”

“Yes.”

“I’m not happy. Please understand, I’m not miserable, I’m just not happy. It’s not you. This is about me.”

Frowning slightly, Jay nodded.

“I think you know that I am interested in your work—our work—at the clinics. But it’s not feeding my soul. I’m not sure what I want, not really, but I do know that this is not it. I love you, and I never meant to hurt you, but I feel like I can’t stay here any longer.”

Jay sat on a stool, and rested her elbows on the bar. She nodded again.

Kai sat at the other end of the bar and faced Jay. “Blame it on the cold and the snow and the hubbub of politics. I just need a change of perspective, and I think the first step needs to be geographic.” She took a deep breath. “I wouldn’t dream of asking you to leave Washington or the clinics. I just know that I need to get out of here.”

“I understand,” said Jay. Tears brimmed in her eyes. “I’ll miss you and what we have together. But I do understand.” She blinked several times. “I’ve seen a look on your face lately—like you want to crawl out of your own skin—and suspected that something was wrong. I wanted to ask, but was afraid of the answer. Now that you’ve said it flat-out, all I can do is release you to find your own happiness.”

Kai’s eyes softened. “You are a rare and precious jewel, my friend.”

Jay reached out and grasped Kai’s hand. “And that’s what I want us to remain please. Friends.”

Kai squeezed Jay’s hand. “Absolutely.”

That day Kai began packing and checked into a local hotel. Over the next few days, while Jay worked at the clinics or was otherwise occupied, Kai moved the rest of her belongings into a storage unit. After removing the last of her things from the townhouse, she bade Jay a tearful farewell.

* * * *

Kai spent the holidays in Paradise. She somehow avoided telling her mom and brothers about her broken marriage and future plans. Two days after New Year’s Day, warmed and rejuvenated, Kai returned to the hotel in Washington, D.C., and finalized plans for the next phase of her life.

Kai and Liza had arranged to meet at the condo on the first Saturday of the New Year. Kai parked and sat for a moment, staring at nothing. She knew what she had to do. And she dreaded it.

Chapter 35

Kai walked into the condo, draped her coat over a chair, and trudged to the living room.

Liza stood, hugged and kissed Kai, and then stepped back and gazed up her. “Are you okay?”

It’s now or never, thought Kai. She took a deep breath.

“No. No, I’m not.”

“What’s wrong?” asked Liza.

Kai looked directly at Liza. “I’ve nearly touched heaven twice in my lifetime, come close to having what I want, and yet, not quite.” She paused and swallowed hard. “There is a place that exists, a feeling where we become one. No one else, nothing else exists but the two of us. And it feels like heaven to me. It’s as close to pure perfection as I’ve ever known.”

Liza nodded slowly.

“Words like bliss and nirvana come to mind. It’s as if the world stops—or the world goes on, paying no attention to us or us to it.” Kai pursed her lips. “But it’s just a touch of heaven.

We’ve never had the chance to actually live in it, fully exist in it.

To really own it.”

Raking her fingers through her hair, Kai continued. “It seems there is always something else in the way: things like logistics, geography, and preoccupation. The world we so naturally shut out during those times became the stage. And you were born to be smack dab in the center of that stage.” With a slightly sarcastic twang Kai said, “Seems it’s always somethin’.”

“But that’s why I got us this condo.”

“I know, hon. But it’s not enough.” Kai took another deep breath. “I’ve finally discovered what it is that I want.” She gazed at Liza. “There is only one true love in this life for me. There is only one relationship that I have ever genuinely wanted from head to toe, heart to soul.” Kai straightened her spine. “In the absence of that, I’d rather have nothing. In the absence of that, nothing else is acceptable—everything else is just settling. And that’s not fair to me or to anyone I’m involved with. Which is why I’m leaving Jay.”

Liza’s eyebrows shot up and she opened her mouth to speak.

“Please.” Kai raised both hands. “Please just let me get this out.” She cleared her throat. “This is what I choose: to either have our relationship fully—yours and mine—or to be single. If you and I can make our relationship happen in this lifetime, I’ll gladly embrace it if and when. As you’ve said many times, life is too short. And that may be what scares me the most—that we’ll just plain run out of time, and never get to fully experience this heaven that I know exists.”

Liza closed her mouth and stared at Kai.

“I’ve managed to save a sizeable nest egg over the years.

Jay and I have talked about it, and she’s willing to buy out my half of the townhouse. I put some money down on a small place where there’s sunshine.” Kai cleared her throat again, and smiled crookedly. “I want to wake up in the morning to warm sun and cool breeze, and live carefree for a while. This is the best way I can think of to work through this new feeling of being on my own, just me, making a life that doesn’t include you in the way I so desperately want.”

Kai’s eyes brimmed, and a tear slid down her cheek. She blinked a few times. “I’ve nearly touched heaven, and nothing else even comes close. So I’m not going to waste my time trying to force an attempt to get back to that—to replicate it, to somehow capture some part of it. There is no acceptable threshold. Anything less than one hundred percent isn’t good enough anymore.”

Kai turned to leave. She didn’t want to hear a rebuttal.

She did not want to hear Liza beg her to stay. And she certainly did not want to hear her say, “Fine, just go then.”

Liza’s mouth fell open but no words came out. She watched Kai walk toward the door. Suddenly she blurted, “How will I find you? Will you let me know where you are?”

Kai barked out a laugh, and said over her shoulder, “Liza, you’re the fucking president of the United States. I think you’ll find a way to locate me if and when you’re ready.” Grabbing her coat, Kai walked out the door whispering, “If you ever manage to find yourself ready.”

She hurried down the hall, and took the stairs so she wouldn’t have to wait for the elevator. Bolting down them two at a time, willing herself to the bottom before tears started to flow, she hit the door running, and rushed out into the cold Washington air.

When the air hit her face, Kai gasped. The shocking sensation of freezing tears stopped their flow. Shrugging into her coat, she thought, It’ll be nice to live somewhere that doesn’t require four layers of clothing half the year.

* * * *

Liza still stood in the same spot and position she’d been in when Kai walked out of her life. Forever? Liza thought. It sure felt like forever. For the first time in years, Liza contemplated life without Kai in it. She had just assumed they would continue on as they had been, indefinitely. It suddenly struck her just how much she needed and wanted Kai in her life.

An overwhelming sense of loneliness and futility washed over her. She sank into a chair as waves of nausea and tears engulfed her. She couldn’t remember the last time she had cried, but it just kept pouring out until she felt like screaming. Finally the sobbing subsided, but tears continued to slide down her face.

She had no idea how long she sat there, rocking back and forth.

Her phone buzzed, jolting Liza back to reality. Her chief of staff said she was needed in the Oval Office immediately.

Liza jumped up, checked herself in the mirror, and decided that the ride to the West Wing would provide sufficient time for the redness in her eyes to dissipate. She summoned her driver, and quickly applied makeup. This grief will have to wait, she thought as she headed out the door.

* * * *

Quietly weeping, Kai stared out the window, watching the Washington landscape recede as the plane gained altitude. She closed her eyes, and jumped as a male voice boomed through the overhead speaker. “Arriving in Los Angeles.”

Brow furrowed in confusion, it took Kai a moment to recognize that she slept through the entire six-hour flight from Washington. She switched planes, and watched through another window as darkness gathered over L.A.

Kai slept fitfully during the final leg of her journey, and breathed a sigh of relief when the plane touched down in Honolulu. She stepped out of the terminal, and palpable air enveloped her like a hug. Stopping outside the door, she closed her eyes and slowly breathed it in. A sense of wellbeing washed over her. Her shoulders relaxed, and tears leaked from the corners of her eyes.

Blinking, Kai pulled her suitcase to ground transportation.

Entering the back seat of a taxicab, she said, “Rainbow Tower of Hilton Hawaii Village, please.”

* * * *

The next morning, after picking up her reserved rental car, Kai drove over Pali Highway and into the Lanikai neighborhood of Kailua. On Mokulua Drive, she pulled into the driveway of a gray and lavender bungalow, and parked behind a burgundy sedan. As she emerged from her rental car, a petite woman stepped out of the sedan and walked rapidly toward Kai.

“Hello, Ms. Hamilton.” The realtor extended her hand.

“Amalia Agbayani.” She turned. “Let me show you your new home.”

Having already received a home-inspection approval and processed the paperwork that she could do remotely, Kai walked through the house with the realtor, and then signed the remaining paperwork. Amalia handed Kai two sets of keys.

Smiling broadly, she shook Kai’s hand and said, “Mahalo.”

Kai closed the door behind the realtor and turned. Eyes sparkling, she strode across the living room, and opened the French doors. Stepping onto a covered lanai, she gazed across the white-sand beach at the turbulent winter sea. The small Mokulua Islands marked the reef that protected Lanikai bay. In the distance Kai heard crashing waves, and watched as they sloshed over the reef and surged around the two small islands.

She sat down and inhaled deeply.

Kai leaned her head back, and breathed slowly as she gazed at the powdery beach and wet pink sand licked by gentle waves. Just off shore, blue-green outlined translucent turquoise, blended into aqua, and became purple-blue at the frothing reef and blue-black beyond.

That Mokulua on the left looks like an enormous pile of excrement, she thought, and grinned. “I dub thee Godshit Island,” she whispered, “and worship you as the product of something far greater than I.” Focusing on the other Mokulua, she giggled. “And you. You are God’s breast. I symbolically suckle you, and absorb the life-giving sustenance of the Islands.”

Still smiling, Kai closed her eyes as a breeze played across her face.

* * * *

Some time later Kai stepped back inside. Besides the chairs and table on the lanai, her home contained no furniture.

From the rafters, Kai heard a small kissing sound that echoed throughout the empty bungalow. She looked up. Near the ceiling, a gray gecko clung to the wall and tensed in synchrony with the sound.

Kai cocked her head. “Are you my new housemate?” She smiled. “Kisses to you, too.”

* * * *

Kai drove back to the Hilton. In her room, she flipped open her phone and held down a speed-dial key. “Hiya Mama.”

“Oh, hi, Kaity. I was just thinking about you. How are you?”

“I’m awesome.”

With a smile in her voice, Marianne said, “I haven’t heard you say that in years. I’d love to hear about it if you care to share.”

“First the bad news, Mama.” Kai swallowed. “Jay and I filed for divorce.”

“Oh, honey, I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay. Jay is an awesome woman. We’ll stay friends.”

“She sure is. Jay’s like a second daughter to me.”

“She adores you, and told me she’s staying in close touch with you whether I like it or not.”

Marianne laughed. “Good. That’s good news already.”

“The rest of the good news, for me at least, is that I’m in Hawaii.”

“You are? Well, you deserve a vacation!”

“I live here now, Mama. I bought a house on the beach.”

After a pause, Marianne giggled. “You’re really no farther away from me than you were in Washington. But what a change in scenery!”

“No kidding! It’s like being reborn.” Kai laughed. “And we’re still just a plane-ride apart.”

* * * *

The next morning, Kai checked out of the hotel, returned the rental car, and caught a cab to Sand Island. After collecting her Hummer from the freight dock, she drove back to Lanikai to await the movers.

* * * *

That afternoon the movers unloaded Kai’s belongings, arranged her furniture as she instructed, and stacked boxes in the hallway.

Kai began unpacking, hung framed prints, and long after sunset, sank into a sofa.

In the dim light of a floor lamp, she gazed at a book she had found at the airport. She stroked its cover. The Tao of Photography: Seeing Beyond Seeing by Gross and Shapiro had been the textbook for her advanced photography class at Sac State more than twenty-five years ago. Used as a textbook in photography classes around the world, it had recently become a mainstream bestseller as well.

Slowly Kai thumbed through the book and peered hungrily at thought-provoking and award-winning photographs. How had she let her passion for photography recede into the background of her life? She closed the book, reopened its cover, and started reading. Some time later she smiled as she read the following: In a world that is by nature always in flux, wave after wave of photographic opportunities keep rolling in.

The dimly lit room grew brighter, and Kai looked up. Her jaw dropped as she stared through the bay window into the night. A vast moon emerged from the sea, spanning the horizon between the Mokulua Islands and painting a sparkling trail to the beach.

Spellbound, Kai stepped through the French doors and sank into a chair. Accompanied by a melodious chorus of coqui frogs, the moon rose above the small islands, illuminating them and casting moonshine across the beach and onto the lanai.

* * * *

Some time later, Kai took the photography book to bed and finished reading it. As she fell asleep, the book’s final sentence rolled through her mind:

Why not forsake the endless pursuit of happiness and bask in the shade of the Tao, the flow of existence?

* * * *

Kai awoke to sunshine streaming through the bedroom door, and sat up. Closing her eyes, she smiled as the sun warmed her face. She stepped to the corner and opened a box, and pulled out a digital camera. Placing it on the bed, she quickly dressed, and then grabbed the camera and stepped through the lanai and out onto the sand.

Wandering along the beach, Kai photographed two frolicking Labradors. Hearing a flapping sound, she turned as a kite-boarder went airborne, and snapped several shots. As the kite and board whipped out of sight, Kai wiggled her toes in the powdery sand and resumed walking. Suddenly hunkering down, she snapped shots of a bee ambulating over a tangle of driftwood.

When Kai stood, an iridescent dragonfly flicked back and forth before her as though trying to capture her attention. It swooped down and landed on a fallen plumeria, raised its long wings until they met, and allowed Kai to photograph it from several angles.

Back in her bungalow, Kai uploaded the photos to her computer. Drenched in sunshine, the images glowed with an ethereal quality of light.

* * * *

That afternoon, Kai unpacked the last box, popped open a cold Longboard Lager, and sat on the lanai watching shafts of sunshine succumb to lengthening shadows. Setting the empty bottle on the table, she leaned back and closed her eyes. She missed Bogart.

Not wanting to subject the 9-year-old dog to Hawaii’s quarantine requirements, Kai had flown Bogart to Sacramento, where Kendra eagerly awaited him. Bogart and Humphrey—a two-year-old beagle mix that Kendra had adopted because she too missed Bogart—became instant buddies.

* * * *

The next morning, Kai drove across Oahu to the Hawaii Humane Society, near Waikiki. Toward the end of the last aisle, she made eye contact with a dog the size and color of Bogart.

Reading the sign, she learned that three-year-old Kona’s lineage included poodle and terrier, and he weighed twelve pounds.

She crouched down and pressed her palm against the cage, and Kona pranced up and licked her hand. “Would you like to be adopted, Kona?” The dog cocked his head and panted. “I’ll take that as a yes.” Kai stood and strode to the office.

* * * *

That afternoon, with Kona sitting next to her, Kai drove to a pet store in Honolulu. From the cart, Kona indicated his preferences. Kai bought a basketful of dog supplies, and returned home.

Walking slowly, the dog sniffed every inch of the bungalow.

“Does it pass inspection? Are you ready for a walk?”

Kona’s ears went straight up, and he sat at Kai’s feet. “Oh, good boy. Looks like someone trained you.” Kai clipped a leash to his collar, and led him onto the beach.

Kai laughed as the dog busily dug holes, pitching sand every which way. She threw sticks into the bay’s lapping waves, and Kona splashed in and retrieved them.

Kai took Kona to most of the places that she had taken Liza half a lifetime ago.

Seeing a “Scuba Lessons” sign in the window of a Kailua dive shop, Kai carried the dog inside and signed up.

She earned open-water and advanced scuba certification, enrolled in a summer underwater photography course, and joined the Oahu Scuba Diving Club.

The OSDC met frequently, and with them Kai dove Hanauma Bay, Electric Beach, Shark’s Cove, Rainbow Reef and several boat-dive sites.

* * * *

In November, as Liza’s two-term presidency drew to an end, voters elected current vice-president Reuben Rincon, making Rincon the first Hispanic president in U.S. history.

A few days after the election, Kai sat on her lanai, watching darkness gather and thinking about the past few years.

Liza’s presidency was ending with rave reviews. With an approval rating higher than that of any of her predecessors, she had clearly laid the groundwork for future female presidencies.

The economy thrived. Liza had accomplished several of her pet projects, including an effective and affordable educational system and an enormous reduction in the budget deficit. The country prospered, and homeland security measures had all but eradicated terrorism. The U.S. again dominated the world scene as a global superpower.

Kai smiled proudly. Her smile faded, and she leaned her head back and sighed.

Chapter 36

In mid-December, after leaving Kona at Palisades Pet Palace, Kai flew with a dozen other OSDC members to Maui for a three-day weekend. They checked in at the Hyatt in Lahaina, and dove Canoe Beach across from the hotel.

* * * *

The next day, the group boarded a boat to Molokini Crater.

Kai stood at the rail, next to a woman whose black one-piece swimsuit seductively showcased her voluptuous figure.

The radiant face of the deeply tanned woman bore the laugh lines of a life well lived.

Kai turned to her and smiled. “You’re new to the club, aren’t you?”

Brushing back her dark curls, the woman smiled into Kai’s eyes. “I just moved here from Australia.” She extended her hand.

“Naomi Wright.”

Feeling a warm rush of interest, Kai murmured, “Mmm.

Love that accent of yours.”

* * * *

After the dive, the boat returned to Lahaina.

Back at the Hyatt, Kai and Naomi sat on the lanai of Kai’s room.

Naomi reached out and stroked Kai’s hand. “Beautiful dive, love.” She turned and looked at Kai. “Did you see the tiny orange clownfish darting in and out of that seafloor anemone?”

“Oh, yeah. Adorable!” Kai grinned. “Maybe I’ll put a saltwater aquarium in my bungalow.”

Naomi gasped. “No! Didn’t you see Finding Nemo?”

Kai guffawed. “Never mind.” After a pause, she continued.

“I’ll bet that movie was huge in Australia.”

“Sure was. Still is, more than thirty years later.”

“So,” said Kai, “what brings you to Hawaii?”

“Marine biology. I’m currently studying hammerheads in Kaneohe Bay.”

Kai slapped her knee. “Kaneohe is close to where I live in Lanikai.”

“Ooh,” said Naomi. “That bungalow you mentioned is in Lanikai?”

“You should come watch the next moonrise with me.” Kai glanced at the moon-phase schedule on her watch. “Can you come this Saturday night? Before eight?”

“Love to, mate!”

* * * *

Just after nine on Saturday night, Naomi stretched and exclaimed, “That was spectacular.” Still gazing up at the full moon, she leaned back in her chair. “This is some place you’ve got here.”

Kai grinned, and continued to stroke Kona’s head.

Leaning back, she unconsciously mirrored Naomi’s position. “I’ve been here almost a year, and haven’t tired of it yet.”

“What’s not to like?” After a moment, Naomi continued.

“Speaking of which…I like you a lot, love. I hope you don’t mind too much.”

Kai looked at Naomi and smiled. “I don’t mind a bit.

Actually, I’m flattered and moved. I like you a lot, too.” She took a deep breath. “But I’m not quite fit for human consumption… At least not yet.”

Naomi chuckled. “I get your drift. She must have been awesome.” She patted Kai’s hand. “Take all the time you need.”

Epilogue

Two months later, Kai took her coffee out onto the lanai of her Lanikai bungalow. Leaving the French doors open, she eased onto a chair, placed the mug on a table, and leaned back.

Gazing at the cyan sea, she felt the morning breeze blow through her hair. The hint of a smile crossed her lips.

Opening her eyes, she stretched her calf muscles and extended her arms, triggering a full-body yawn that felt wonderful. Kona leaped up onto the seat next to Kai, and she picked up her paperback and thumbed through the pages to where she’d left off. With her free hand she lifted the coffee mug and took a sip.

A shadow loomed over her head. A smile spread across Kai’s face. Kai spoke first. “You’re up!”

“Yes I am.”

“How did you sleep?” Kai dropped the book onto the table and placed the mug next to it.

“Amazingly, thanks to you.”

“Glad to do my part, ma’am,” Kai drawled. “Did you get coffee?”

“Yes, love, I did.”

“Are you here to join me, or are you going back inside?

Do you have plans for today? Do you want to hang out here?”

Kai leaned her head back and gazed up. “Shall we take a tour of the island?”

Kai’s houseguest bent down and kissed Kai, dark curls tickling Kai’s face. “I don’t want to go anywhere. I want to spend the day here with you, just you and me. We can do whatever you want here.” She paused. “But if you can’t come up with anything, I have an idea.” Her eyes twinkled.

Kai laughed. She reached back and grasped a hand.

Continuing to hold Kai’s hand, her houseguest stepped to the chair beside Kai and sat down. Smiling into Kai’s eyes, tanned face framed by charming laugh lines, she said, “The pleasure is all mine.”

Lost in those eyes, Kai gazed back at the most beautiful woman in her world. Stroking her hand, Kai looked down and murmured, “You’re wearing your ring.”

“I’ve been wearing it regularly. Two weeks ago, I looked at it and thought, Blue. Water. Hawaii! It helped me find you.”

Kai leaned back, closed her eyes again, and continued smiling. She squeezed Liza’s hand.

Heaven

ABOUT KRIS HOWARD

Kris Howard is a master's-prepared computer

programmer. She lives in Southern California with her wife, a dog, and two cats. Kris's passions include photography, friends, water, women, and the Pacific Northwest.

ABOUT JMS BOOKS LLC

Founded in 2010, JMS Books LLC is owned and operated by author J.M. Snyder. We publish a variety of genres, including gay erotic romance, fantasy, young adult, poetry, and nonfiction.

We are an invitation-only small press. Short stories and novellas are available as e-books and compiled into single-author print anthologies, while any story over 30k in length is available in both print and e-book formats. Visit us at jms-books.com for more information on our latest releases!