We arrived home. She rushed to the bathroom. I waited for her. By now I knew she'd be mine, and the only question was WHEN. I was determined to let her set the pace. Pushing my luck too soon could cause her further anguish.

Elena came out 20 minutes later. I sat nonchalantly in front of the TV set, pretending to watch a stupid sitcom. She crossed before me as if to look through the window and then strolled back to the kitchen. I didn't move.

"Hunter, I owe you something. I just can't remember what."

"Come here, and we'll try to remember together."

She sat on my right and...