083:

"Well," she began lazily. "I do want you to come here..."

He blew out his breath forcefully. "Shit, baby, you got me all worked up!" his laugh was relieved.

She smiled. "Sorry. I asked for your opinion... I guess I got it!"

He was silently chuckling in relief, so she let him, holding the phone away from her ear for a moment while she closed her eyes and prayed for patience. Men! All men!!!

"It's just that the thought of you and the babies held hostage or hurt before being killed sets my blood to boiling."

"It's nice to know you care that much, Robere." She whistled and let a smile creep into her voice even though she was quite upset at the moment.

He sighed again. "Tia Melia..."

"Yeah?"

"Are you going to the dance tonight? Who will you dance with?"

"Why? Will you be jealous? I'll likely dance with my cousin." She said. "But I will imagine he's actually you, how about that?"

"When you are on my boat, we will dance, Tia Melia, and you'll know it's me you're dancing with."

"I have no doubt, Robere, no doubt at all."

****