"We're having Chinese food tonight. Someone else is bringing it, so you won't have to cook. I also need you to look after Brenda's little boy until it's his bedtime, so I have some time to talk to her and Gretchen. It's possible Gretchen will spend the night. I sort of invited her to if she's still interested in sex with me."

She raised her eyebrows, then laughed. I hugged her and we walked up to the house together.

After lunch, Dad took Brigitte upstairs. I asked Mom if she wanted to go down to the water and wait like Dad did.

"No, I'm going to give Simon a little...