We had a repeat separation, and for a good deal longer, at Christmas. We spent most of December trying to contrive something that would let me come visit Mitch and her family for the holiday, but we couldn't come up with anything that would be less than extremely suspicious.

And the last thing I wanted was to give Dad or Mom any additional reason to research my roommate and doubles partner. I'd mentioned Michelle's imaginary boyfriend, Jimmy, a couple of times in what I hoped were innocuous ways. But I was still scared every second.

We talked as often as we could, but it wasn't the same as being in...