She forced out a laugh, though it made her happy that he couldn't.

They spun around and talked some more as they strolled languidly back.

"Oh!" Lucas exclaimed. "How did it go with Mystery Guy? You know, the one you got all pretty for?"

Skylar giggled. "He wasn't there."

He cut his eyes at her. "You look disappointed."

"Yeahhhhh..." she drawled, then made a squelching sound with her mouth that underscored her disappointment.

"What's the story with this guy? Fill me in."

"There isn't really one to tell. He's just some guy who's been coming regularly once a week for the past months or so, always accompanied by a friend....