Jian: Cast of Characers

Jian

I gave him a brief rundown of the DARPA folks said.

"It was interesting but we got no documentation. My asking for some got a not at this time' response which was unhelpful. I got the impression they were doing a staged scene' so they could say they'd done it. Placating someone but not us TAG folks."

I shrugged, "Not being a Washington habitué I'm not up on their games. I wonder if I pressed them for documents they'd come across with them or stonewall me?"

Cho's fingers in my hair, a slight pressure from his nails giving me goosebumps! A kiss.

"Well you don't have anything to lose by asking and you'd up the ante. Don't forget to `CC' Tim Kaine's office!"

I was grinning at the idea and how Cho said it! He got it! Kiss!! Sleep!

58

Our early morning Jaidee walk to Washington Square was enlivened by his second meeting with Blackie another Labrador. They got to romp around a bit. I said hello to Blackie's owner, we went different directions after the sniffings and running were completed.

Black leather pants like skin, a red crop tank top under a short black long sleeved jumper, showing an inch or two of tummy, red Jimmy Choo pumps. Red nails and lips! Over it all the Hugo Boss moto jacket and black gloves.

Pell drove me, Gil, Ken and Tara up town to the Fox Tower. A few paparazzi snapped us going in from Sixth Avenue. The lift to the Administration floor. I left my outer wear in the office and stopped by Bill's office, his PA said he'd arrive in one hour. Okay.

Raleigh smiling from his desk, he was doing very well. Things were humming along, nothing out of the ordinary. Looking at our current workforce, he was pleased with the evaluations passing over his desk.

"The line managers aren't skimping in their work. I've done some routine follow ups with my PA on several. I think we are running on all cylinders!"

He was making a tour of several corporate owned stations to show the flag and get some feedback.

Thumbs up! Fist bump!

Kent got a hug! The `pee tape' story had been a monster hit! All the other news organizations were playing catch up but they hadn't expanded the story or debunked it. It was solid.

Maybe another Emmy nomination for Kent's shop? He was grinning like a Cheshire cat!

I sat with Yoshi and Arturo. They were going back to Thailand and Malaysia soon. I let them know we'd be in Bangkok in the middle of April.

I passed along the only bit of news I had. Dad had a conversation with the head of Malaysia's version of the Security Police or MI5. The Malaysian policeman had orders for the border to be cooled down. His people were doing operations to remove weapons from groups of Thai Muslims in the north. Several large caches had been uncovered and confiscated. It was ongoing.

It came from pressure by our Foreign Office and US State Department contacts. Something to nudge the Thai separatists into motion.

Arturo was nodding his head, "They aren't being very subtle but making their point. It will unnerve the separatists, maybe they would be more inclined to talk if they thought their `sanctuary' was being disturbed."

Yoshi had gotten messages from the two men he'd met in Yala. They wanted to talk. A bit of cross-border anxiety? Probable.

I asked if the separatists might link our efforts to the increased police activity. Arturo and Yoshi didn't know but would carefully probe that on this trip. I could ask our contacts to get it dialed back.

They would check to see if we were still in Bangkok when time came for them to leave. Fist bumps.

Tai hugged me at the door of her office. She and Megan were great! I asked about their going out on the town, enjoying all the night life New York offers.

"We party on the weekends since she has to get up so early. We come in together and often go to swim afterwards. The swim club membership is very welcome!"

I didn't use it enough... maybe today. I turned to Gil, she nodded.

Ku was in Seattle, Eve missing her. I got a monster hug and kiss! She had lots of good news, the best was the servers for the GWNW system were all setup! It was ready for Duncan and his folks to start which was next month.

The STS servers were humming along smoothly. Every function we planned was operating as designed, the STS folks in Atlanta were thrilled! Eve had talked many times with George their chief technologist, he was very pleased. His life was easier, we had their back for every bit of data!

Their data rolling in was much better and their being able play' about with it was showing positive results in many ways. Several departments had been especially pleased to discover ways to reduce their costs. Managing train builds' was so much easier and accurate! He had said that alone was a real payoff. A big win for STS!

Second, Kelela's team had no new serious attempts to penetrate our systems, just the usual amateurish niggling's. There was a large string of IP's that were blocked.

The whole team, Eve included, were coming to lunch with me today at the Delhi Palace! It was part of their reward for the GRU thing.

Bill was in, we sat in the `study', he'd looked at our numbers.

"We are up over last year under the previous management by seventy three percent in revenue and it looks like about a thirty four percent boost to profit."

All welcome numbers!! He was sure they'd continue to show rises through the rest of the year. Fist bump and a hug.

I rounded up Kelela's crew and Eve. The off-duty members were here!!

We had a private room at the Delhi Palace on West 48th Street. Gil had spoken to the wait staff about not being able to enter after the food was served. The manager came to the room and Gil explained the need for the limits.

He saw me and bowed. I introduced myself telling him Bill recommended his restaurant. He was very pleased to have us. The food would be brought in then we just needed to open the door for the staff to come in to clear away and bring desserts and afters.

We were good with that.

Gil had looked at the menu in advance and ordered starters for the table and a large selection of rice and veggie dishes, fish and chicken choices plus salads in a buffet.

I got a Campari and soda. Some of them had to go back to work so no alcohol. We dug into the poppadum and sauces, pakoras and more to start.

Moses' group were a collection of intense skilled folks but they were relaxed with me. I supposed because I showed them I understood what they were doing. My instant approval of the penetration and saying I knew what I agreed to had got their attention.

I gave them what I had from the meeting with Alf and Theodore. The praise went over very well considering the source was the head of NSA Counter-Intelligence!

I described an `event' which was Yevgeny in vague terms so as not to give away too much but the best part about the GRU being used to try to find him allowed the NSA to find new links throughout the russian security services.

Moses' face was a study, cute, serious and mischievous!

"Fay, this `event' was it an FSB fellow going AWOL?"

I laughed, looking at Moses, he didn't have my patience and soon grinned, "Well after our fun we've been keeping an ear open on happenings in that part of the world. Oleg and I doing it. There was a huge flap after what we heard was a rumored missing senior FSB officer."

I told them, reinforcing the secrecy, that it was true AND that we had a hand in it. High fives by the group.

Kelela did a fist bump with me, "The story was he went over from St. Petersburg which seemed odd but you know... rumors."

I enlightened them, "He pretended to go to St. Petersburg but flew to Helsinki instead where one of our aircraft picked him up."

Moses was bouncing in his chair, he stuck a an open palm towards Oleg, "Helsinki! Okay. That's twenty!"

They had a bet when they got a lot of info that Yevgeny had flown out of Russia to a western nation then left from there to the United States. Finland was Moses' guess!

They loved that I had arranged his undercover departure from Finland.

I emphasized that with all the comms flow over Yevgeny's going missing the NSA had hugely increased its penetration of russian systems by following the traffic AND that we had identified another GRU working group for the NSA to penetrate.

Our folks loved that Yevgeny going missing caused such damage. Big grins!

Onto a second topic which they needed to know about. Cho-Fay Air servers in Bangkok had been attacked. Two different attempts had been made one from London, the other from a Belorussian server which we found was controlled by their home grown version of the KGB and was open for use by the russian GRU.

That got their attention. I told them what Kora and I decided to say. Her defense team had blocked both tries and then did a follow on penetration like my lunch companions.

The London one came from an internet café in SOHO that connected into another system using flaw in RDP which allowed elevated permission levels. The attacking person took control and used a VPN then to go out to attack our company.

There had been an article on a London aviation technology site about Cho-Fay Air's new heliport in the city which was probably the impetus. Our names connected to it the clincher.

Kora's folks tracked it back to the internet café and our Security in London visited the café. It had been used three times in three days. Now we had video in place and some very nice monitoring software running in the background on all the café's computers. The owners have been very helpful.

The server the intruder had used to run the VPN was being watched around the clock with some of our software installed. The deal we made with the server owner was if they allowed us to do this monitoring we wouldn't let the weasel do them any damage and our people would secure their server after we were done.

We were waiting for another attempt.

The other try was more dangerous. It was blocked from going anywhere but the operators were more skilled and persistent. A defense in depth had made their efforts pointless. We learned a lot about them while they were trying.

Kora's team penetrated the Belorussian KGB server which was the source and watched the connections to it. They harvested a nice collection of IP numbers...

"Thanks to you guys we had the IP list you developed. Kora's folks found quite a few exact matches and a lot of new ones. They are following up on the new ones.

One in particular you might appreciate, it led to a server in Moscow. That turned out to have a link to another server... which is an FSB email server!"

They all laughed! Even more laughter when I told them the entire email database had been downloaded.

"Now you folks, with the exception of..." I motioned across the table, "... Antra, don't know my father is the head of the Thai equivalent of the FBI or MI5. Kora delivered a copy of the database to him and his tech people."

They were definitely laughing loudly now. I said Dad's folks were reading it all after setting up a duplicate email database on a server in their office. It wasn't connected to a network or the internet and had a dedicated printer attached. Two Russian speakers were working it.

They would share with selected Allies whatever they developed that might impact those friends.

"Talk about sharing... Kora will send you a new group of IP's to block."

Thumbs up from Kelela.

We'd finished eating so Ken let the wait staff in to clear and bring in dessert. Espresso for me!

Now we talked about computers in general. Turned out most of these folks were long time Macintosh users like me. Kelela's dad bought one in 1984! One of the first models!

He had been a maths professor at a small college. He taught himself to program in a half-dozen different languages only one of which was still being used.

She laughed, "He gave up learning any new languages after `C' and its variants, he just writes what he wants in that."

She told everyone her parent's basement was a Macintosh museum. Her dad kept buying new ones and never got rid of any of them right back to old `Number One' as the family calls the 1984 version.

"He keeps them running too. Has them on their own network with shared printers and the internet."

She described learning about AppleTalk networks as a girl, setting up an Apple ImageWriter printer with an AppleTalk adapter inside it so it could be shared. Her dad bought an AsantePrint adapter which connected AppleTalk to Ethernet! The Macs could go out to the internet and print to multiple printers.

She'd installed a SCSI hard drive in a Mac SE model that started with two floppy drives. Loaded the OS and it was still running fine!

Kelela laughing, "Dad loves his Mac's! It's fun to sit in the room looking at all of them humming along."

I asked where... in D.C. on the East Side, `A' Street SE.

"It's the back side of Capitol Hill."

Gil did her thing with the bill. The manager came back to thank us for dining with them. Everyone told him the food was excellent and Kelela's folks said they worked close so they'd be back. Big smile from him.

In the car going to the swim club Theodore called.

"Miss Martin, I just received a DHL parcel from Bangkok with a hard drive inside. The sender is a unit at the Headquarters of the Thai Security Police. In the box it says it's from a General Keren. Now we checked on that after the box was examined by our security. A note directly attached to the hard drive said you would be able to explain."

I laughed, "Well... I didn't know about that part. General Keren is my adoptive father"

Silence, then, "That's interesting news!"

My laughing from his response made Theodore laugh, "It's my dad's sense of humour which I hope isn't causing a problem."

"No problem but what's on it?"

I gave Theodore the details of the attempted break-ins at Cho-Fay Air. The new penetrations and the depth of our entry inside their systems. I could sense excitement!

"You get around don't you?"

I laughed, "Our businesses are of interest. The Cho-Fay Air server could tell someone where all our planes are and where they have been. For example Helsinki..."

He was quiet, "Okay I get that. A good reason for the russian angle but the London connection?"

"Maybe a proxy for the russians or a newspaper reporter trying to track us. We are suing News UK for invading our privacy."

Theodore said he'd read that somewhere, "So you think it might be more of that?"

"We may know soon because the three attacks took place more or less around this time in London. We have several traps in place."

"Good luck!"

"Now do you want to send some of your folks to Bangkok to take over the other one? We'd be happy to hand it to you."

"Seriously? What about the local people? Your dad?"

"They could but they don't want to go any further there right now. They are working on the same email data you got. Anyway it seems like more for you. We can provide transport if that helps?"

I waved to Gil to get on to Kavat.

"Transport? How? You mean plane tickets??"

"No, an aircraft of our Cho-Fay Air from Dulles to Ban Mueang in Bangkok and back. It's about seventeen hours one way. We`ve a place for them to stay near to our Security building. They would be very much undercover. The Security Police would know they were in country but no one else."

"You're being very generous! I guess you do want us to take it."

"Yes, it would better for you to have it all in one place... Yes?"

"Okay! I can have a team ready. When? They could go soon."

Gil showed me the text from Penn, a Gulfstream was in Newburgh ready to go.

"There will be an aircraft at our Dulles base in the morning. Gil will email you the contact details. They'll be prepared for you."

"Damn! You move quickly. They'll be ready."

I told him there were beds and a shower on board so his folks could rest. Meals included.

"In the meantime... Enjoy being a voyeur of other folks email."

We laughed and we rang off.

At the same time Gil got an email from Alia, she was doing the Crew's wedding at the Forest Palace. They were ready to go. The guest lists were smaller than for ours. A private train from the Railroad to take everyone up and back. Buses to carry them to the Palace.

The same monks from the nearby monastery were pleased to be asked to do the joint weddings. Alia had the same arrangements for them in the Garden already prepared.

Our staff would do the food prep and the caterers from Korat would help out again.

The `couples' would go up the day before staying in the Towers, we would join them for the overnight and a party!

Sounds good! I didn't have to do anything but be supportive!

Alia knew we were paying for everything making it simple for her.

Walking into the swim club was different. The young manager who had helped when the older man made his lewd remark was on duty. He came up to me.

"Miss Martin, it is good to see you back I was afraid you might have gone off us because of what happened."

"Oh No. I should be here more when we're in town but too much going on. Thanks for remembering though."

He had a nice smile.

We changed and did laps for three quarters of an hour. Tara grinning as we broke off at the pool edge. Ken and Gil got in to swim. Tara sitting with me stretched out on a lounge.

"Fay, we of course have to be privy to some things because of proximity... you aren't shy about talking on sensitive subjects."

"One, I can't be running around trying to find some `safe' place to talk. Two, I need you guys to be where you are. Three, I trust you."

I gave her my cutest grin, lots of teeth! Tara laughed. Fist bump.

On my back with Chani top! She was giggling, vibrating, having a great time. I had been reading about a little blue fish named Horace who lived on a coral reef. Tha sitting beside us with Charlie, she shared the reading.

We got to the part where Horace is hiding from a bigger fish when a friend of Horace's, a crab named Snapper, nips the bigger fish's butt end scaring him away! I nipped Charlie's butt! Charlie started giggling which started us off.

He crawled over to his plush blue dog and began waving it! We laughed about his knowing `blue'... just the fish-dog thing maybe not yet.

Dinner for The Twins was liven up at the end by a flying piece of banana. Charlie inadvertently launched his while gesturing towards his dad. It hit the table and skittered off. Charlie was motioning to Tha to give it to him, `nana' spoken and he was crestfallen when she didn't. Boy did he give off smiles when a new piece arrived!

Gil came in just as Charlie's tears were assuaged by the fresh banana piece to say Mu and Kuva were landing at the heliport, Erich and Ludwig arrived at JFK and would be escorted to another one of our helicopters. Okay!

A quick change to black skinny jeans and a silver gray cut-off long sleeved light weight jumper, black heels and silver jewellery. A fresh set of `Joy' dabs!

Ali with me. We talked about the buying of Fox affiliate stations as I changed. She was collecting biographical information on the owners while Francis did the financials. She had high confidence in eight of our choices data.

"There will be good background to use in preparing the offers."

Ali liked working with Francis, she meshed her fingers! Fist bump. And a comment about `it was practice for marriage' which got a huge laugh!

Mu and Kuva coming out of the lift. Hands shaken, cheeks kissed. I had met them occasionally at the bank but had never spent any time with either. Their bags went up to 46th Street.

Francis and Ali acted as bartenders, we sat in the living room for now. They enjoyed the Cho-Fay Air flight, Kuva said she slept very well, the bed was comfortable.

Kuva was forty six, married with two children, the son to graduate university shortly. Her daughter in a year. She had spent her entire working life at one or another of the Cho family banks starting as part-time teller working her way through college. Cho had moved her into many positions so she would gain the broadest possible work experience.

She was now the Senior Vice-President and the successor to Mu when he retired at the year's end. Cho had put her in charge of oversight for all the investment banks since it was a major growth area for the parent bank.

I chatted with her about kids getting close to leaving the nest, a big smile.

"You can never really be separated but if they are out working and having some fun then I am happy. My husband, Aran, is wanting to travel which we haven't been able to do too much of recently."

"Well... do it fast because when Mu retires..."

Another smile, "Yes, true but Cho is one to push you to keep a balance. When our daughter started college he practically ordered me to take time off. We took an extended trip to Japan and Taiwan."

Eric and Ludwig arrived. A hug for each, Cho with a big smile! They knew Mu already, Kuva was introduced. Both knew her from a distance via the telephone and email, she had been involved various investment deals. They all said they would meet again at the end month at a big gathering of bankers in Paris. I said we'd be there too so Cho could attend. He was speaking to assembled conference attendees.

I introduced Samara as our ward Mara' who was staying with us while some family issues were worked out. She had asked to be Mara' which was cool.

The Twins came out to much acclaim. They were their usual happy, glad to meet new folks selves. Our guests were rapidly under their spell. There were happy faces! The Twins down on the rugs crawling around. Tha smiling as she kept watch until their bedtime.

Drinks and small talk until Roslyn was ready. Italian!

Two large antipasto platters, marinated artichoke hearts, cubed cheese, several types of peppers, olives and more! Carter had emailed some wine choices to Roslyn. We started with Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2004 DOC by Edoardo Valentini. Dry with a wonderful bouquet!

I could see Erich enjoying, he saw me, SMILE, "Fay, Cho, this is quite delightful."

I told them the wine choice came from our butler at Harcourt House.

"He advises all our cooks and housekeepers on wine. They all get to exchange recipes, ideas, wine over our private network."

Cho leaned over, "We are going to L'Aquila in a couple of weeks. This winery is there so Francis is going on a buying trip."

A grin from Francis!

The soup was a white bean and garlic broth, light, tasty. Small bread squares encrusted with Asiago cheese accompanied it.

Fettuccine tossed with Roma tomatoes, garlic, artichoke hearts and oil, lightly coated with Romano. Small casseroles of grilled zucchini, onions under a flaky pastry. Pan fried Italian green beans with fennel. Loaves of Como style bread made by Roslyn's sister Mita.

Carter suggested a Montepulicano Bruno Nicodemi Riserva, it was splendid. Not common choice, overlooked by many. He was a sharpie. The winery was near L'Aquila also, he was lobbying. Cho was grinning over to me. We raised our glasses!

The table talk had slackened, after everything had been sampled there were many comments about the food. Enjoyment was general!

There was some shop talk, I heard that Callendar was going to be given the Wall Street Investment Bank Presidency job. They decided he was a sound banker, he knew the staff and was more than willing to follow Cho's plans for the bank. Others would be retained like Jessica, the Human Resources person. She would be promoted to a full Vice-Presidency reporting directly to Callendar.

I liked Jessica so I was pleased for her.

The top staff would meet with our group first thing in the morning to get the news. Callendar already knew, Cho wasn't much for surprises inside his businesses. He retained that pleasure for his opponents and me.

Ha!

Tiramisu from the excellent Mita, Vin Santo for all but not Mara! She had been having fun, enjoying the dinner and being part of the adult company. I had her next to me so we could talk easier. Some Russian to keep me in up to date.

Roslyn and Ricardo were tops for going `blading' with her. They were both really good on their rollerblades, showing her some tricks. Washington Square was awesome! So much space!

School was good too. She had made some friends, nothing too deep yet but nice. She wanted to invite a few to the apartment. I said that was fine but she should talk with Yi and Roslyn first since they were her `roommates.' She smiled at that word.

Her dad was Okay. He was talking with lots of folks about his work. They were writing and talking several times a week.

"He is still sad, missing my mum like me. I think I am doing better since I have so much to do. He is alone too much."

Note to me on that.

Afters outside with the heaters going. Kuva was introduced to Amaretto! A big hit. I let Mara sip. She liked it too! Espresso.

Yi and Kuva chatting was nice. Yi's latest was a book signing at Barnes and Noble on 17th Street off Fifth Avenue. She had a good crowd, not overwhelming but a good size for her type of work. Hemmingway still attracts folks.

She was working on a new project, Cornell Woolrich and Hollywood. I do enjoy his novels and short stories. I guess they inspired my interest in the movie `Rear Window.'

I told Ludwig we had horses running at Longchamp/Chantilly at the end of the month if he wanted to come with us. His interest was up, he would be staying with us at Quai de Bethune with Erich, Mu and Kuva for the banking conference. He would ask his wife, Edda, find out what she was up to. She liked to ride also. Good!

"Bring her with you to Paris. I'll find some trouble for us to get into while you guys do the banking whatever's."

He was laughing and pointing towards me, "I've heard some about you. Edda loves to get up to things too."

Cho motioned me over. He had his iPad in hand... Tom Angleten was the first day leader at the Masters Tournament in Augusta, Georgia. He was five under ahead by two.

It was first of the big four golf tournaments of the year. The US Open, the British Open and the PGA Championship all to come. The Grand Slam of golf.

I was wishing him good luck from afar!

My day ended in Cho's arms, we were looking at ourselves in one of the big dressing room mirrors. I started to giggle as a hand slid down to cover my vagina, the `penis' softly pressing against my back.

He was going to have fun tomorrow at the bank.

Ro and Tara were out with Jaidee and I. We walked around a big circle around of Father Demo Square, Jaidee did his thing. It was spring but still a good morning chill in the air.

A good breakfast with the Twins. Erich and Ludwig laughing quietly as Chani and Charlie did a pretty good job with their spoons! They said they were glad their children were long past that period.

Hugs and kisses for the bank warriors going off!

My iPhone jiggling, facetime. Kora with news. A team of Graham's Security folks with detectives from Scotland Yard's Special Branch took a fellow into custody at the internet café in London. He'd gone back once too often to that SOHO café!

Kora started laughing, "Fay, he works for The Sun!"

I burst out laughing and a fist pump! Gil looked over, startled. I gave her the news, we were both laughing. Kora gave me the details of the police officers to contact. I passed it to Gil to call the solicitors right away.

Kora was very pleased with the arrest and that he wasn't a `state actor' so there wouldn't be entanglements. Me too! I told her we'd be in Bangkok soon I would come over to her shop for a visit with Candace. Air fist bumps!

Gil waved to me when I rang off from Kora. The lead partner was laughing along with us.

"Miss Martin, this probably cooks their goose!"

He wanted to be sure what the reporter was doing was part of an assignment and not some personal mucking about. Once they knew that...

"I'll have the police report as soon as possible and will amend the filed papers then ask for a meeting with the judge and their solicitors. I'll do some pushing to move things along quicker with an eye towards their flagrant violations and unwillingness to stop. I think we will have some sparks!"

He was close to cackling... I heard his hand hit the desk... "Damn, this is entertaining!"

I laughed over that. I said we're glad to send some amusement his way.

"Miss Martin, the law can be deadly dull but every now and then you get case like this which lets you stick it to someone good and proper. The piquancy in the sauce is they deserve it all!"

We ended with my promise of something delivered they'd enjoy. He said his throat was dry. More laughter!

After that my day was on a high!

I went in to play with the Twins for a while then work. I had been keeping up with my reports, etc... pretty well and I didn't want to back slide.

Dressing, Gil stuck her head in.

The Iranians had emailed several dates to see if we could come back to meet with top level government members. I said Okay, see what she could do.

Tessa and Tara with Gil and I. First stop MaJa for a trim. Janice smiling was ready. There were two another women in chairs getting their hair worked on. One recognized me. She gave me a smile and a little wave. I waved back.

Janice knew my hair, I was done in a short while. Gil sat for a trim too. My Protection ladies said they were good so we headed out as Gil did the bill. The waving lady under a hair dryer did it again. I smiled.

We headed south on Thompson Street crossing Houston and on to Prince Street. Then east to the Apple Store. I wanted to get several extra power connectors for our laptops but some browsing would be good.

A nice fellow with cute dark dreadlocks got the two power supplies I wanted, Gil did the purchase. Wandering about, looking at the store and the people. It was past noon and crowded. I moved slowly slipping between folks, Tara was in front. I tapped her right arm for a turn towards iPhone cases.

I wanted something different but the cases were fairly bland. I'd have to go online. Nothing else so out the door. A right out front on Prince Street and right on Greene Street to Hugo Boss' Men store.

The salesman took me straight to eyewear at my request and had a pair of Ruthenium Panthos sunglasses for Cho in my hand right away. Dark gray. Okay. Out came my Amex card. We weren't there even ten minutes.

Over to Mercer Street. Agent Provocateur! Maybe find something `saucy' to make Cho laugh!

My first time in one of their stores. I stopped inside the door to take it in as a sales lady came up to Tara, she was passed on to me. I told her I was just looking and would get her if anything grabbed.

She gave me a scan, my tight black jeans over black spike heeled ankle boots, bare belly with a black Chrysanthemum on a silver bar in my navel, other silver bits, black crop T and short black hoodie. She didn't seem impressed. I had a good internal laugh at that.

We did stroll around, I couldn't see anything I liked. It was sort of... well... tacky. I looked at Gil who had a swimsuit in hand, her face made me laugh.

"Well... it doesn't work. I guess I'm not their type."

Another laugh from me, `Me either!'

Tessa and Tara weren't interested so we did an about-face heading to the door.

The sales person came over, I said goodbye. She seemed taken aback, we hadn't been there very long.

"Your things aren't me."

Her face showed she had suddenly recognized me as I turned away for the door.

Time to eat. A suggestion from Megan and Tai, a restaurant and night club that had great food. A turn west deeper into SOHO. We found the rear entrance' from Wooster Street, it started as an archway, a long narrow walkway between buildings into a small square of open space and black door with a large pink V.'

Tessa knocked, it opened. A slender young woman, blue hair cut in a pixie fade. She smiled and held the door for us. A name tag said `EX.'

"Welcome to the `Big V!"

I smiled at that!

Inside EX waved to another sylph like woman, `Glo' showed us to a booth. Some sharp EDM playing, not too loud, insistent though! It sounded like Ducky... I asked Glo, she was startled... she would check.

I got a Campari and soda. I asked for their Caesar Salad with anchovies and small side of chips/fries.

I hip bumped Tessa, she slid out and walked with me to look around. We weren't far from the dance floor, two tightly meshed couples moving to the sounds. We headed towards the other side which was empty, EX was close, she said it was Okay to wander. They didn't seat anyone over here for lunch.

Lots of nice big booths like ours, tables and a beaded doorway. EX's face, sexy cute.

"It's the `Petting Room' for when you have an urge. The rules are simple, don't bother other couples and no nudity."

I raised my eyebrows to Tessa whose smile was anything but chaste. I squeezed EX's hand. I led Tessa in... many soft looking sofas and love seats of various sizes, types, unknown colours in the very dim light.

Two were occupied by pairs of ladies `petting.' I sat on a loveseat, Tessa beside me. She was a bit surprised by my hand pulling one of her legs over mine, my arm around her back. I sat so her Glock wouldn't dig into me.

Shining teeth flashing with laughter as I rested my free hand on her jean clothed sex. A kiss! I whispered, "Just testing."

That made Tessa giggle.

We didn't stay long. Back out I saw a petite slender woman, light brown hair falling down her back. Cute butt! That was my first impression and my view.

She turned when EX who she talking with motioned towards us. Jayne was the owner of the Big V. Forty maybe, she had a cutoff top and tight jeans like me.

"Hello... you're Fay Martin??" A hesitation... a hand tentatively extended.

I answered in the affirmative and introduced Tessa. They shook also.

"I like your club, several friends suggested we come for lunch. They said unequivocally you had the greatest food."

Jayne sparkled hearing that, "It is a point of pride for us. Great music, room to dance the night away, excellent bartenders and awesome food!"

I felt naughty! I motioned towards Jayne's tummy, she smiled. My fingers softly touched Jayne's beautiful belly. Her eyes closed so I stroked a bit, not too much. When I stopped she looked up at me, a smile.

"That was nice! Thank you!"

"Maybe I'll be back one night to see the club in operation."

"Call and I'll save a booth near the dance floor."

Behind Jayne I could see a blonde, curvy with broad shoulders steaming our way like a battleship. Tessa eased forward...

The blonde stepped close... an arm shot out to shove me! Tessa caught the hand, she bent the arm against the blonde's ample bosom and delivered a short jab to her ribs under the armpit at the same time.

A screech... the blonde wavered... she plopped to her bottom. Tessa stayed between us, close to the blonde but out of reach.

Her `Stay down!' was firm not loud.

Jayne was shocked by the few seconds of action. EX had come up behind her. I asked EX to get a bag of ice for the blonde's side. Her mouth open but she whirled away to do as I asked.

Jayne said the blonde was `Montana' her girlfriend. I leaned down to eye level, "Montana, can you behave?"

Pain on her face, a nod. Tessa helped her up. She leaned against a low dividing wall. Her breathing slowing, wincing though. Her right hand over the impact spot. EX brought the ice bag and Tessa sited it for Montana to hold.

"Okay! Can we start again?"

Everyone nodded.

"Montana, I'm Fay Martin, this is Tessa, my bodyguard." Montana had decided to be sensible and slowly nodded towards Tessa.

"Just so you know..."

I gestured to Tessa. Tessa opened her jacket to show the Glock. Montana's eyes were huge!

Quietly and slowly, "I get it."

"Jayne and I were just talking, getting to know each other a bit. She's beautiful which is why I can see why you might take umbrage but you should know who you're dealing with. I'd take Jayne to the Petting Room any time... but no further. You get me?"

A nod and a slight smile, "You're right... Jayne is gorgeous!"

We did a fist bump, a wince, a smile for me now!

Glo said our food was served. I kissed Jayne's cheek and headed off to eat. Fist bump with Tessa. She gave Tara the skinny on our `event' so she was up to speed.

Gil shaking her head, "As much as Cho loves you... he'd never take a poke at a man who'd merely admired you."

I shrugged and dug into a terrific salad. Crisp, the dressing flavourful but light. The cheese was freshly grated!! The anchovies were well drained and delicious! A hard-boiled egg cut in rounds and rings of Roma tomato slices around the edge of the big bowl!

The chips were hot, firm and lightly salted. I choose ketchup, good! We all enjoyed. Glo brought more drinks and smiled at our liking the food! A slice of soft chocolate cake and espresso finished me off.

As we prepared to leave Jayne and Montana came to the booth. We were thanked for coming. Montana said she was sorry to me. Montana shook Tessa's hand but didn't thank Tessa for the bruise. We were Okay. Lesson learned I hoped.

Glo walked us to the door, "Miss Martin, you were right it was Ducky." Fist bump!

We re-traced our route back out to Wooster Street where Pell picked us up. Home.

Going up in the Minetta Street lift I asked Tessa why the Protection Team hit folks in the ribs.

"It produces a lot of pain because there's little flesh over the ribs, also shock! It's also a somewhat unexpected place to be hit adding to the surprise. You can't kill someone by accident either."

I kissed her cheek and Tara's.

Gil's grin as we sat in the living room, "That would be an interesting evening place."

We laughed, "I don't think Cho would mind, he'd go with me just to see the lovelies."

Fist bump.

The banker warriors all came up in a few hours. I'd spent my time with The Twins. Such fun to roll around on the carpet with them. We had story time, low sugar baked treats from Mita, blocks and colours exercises and more. They were speaking their own language with a few real words thrown in.

Tha had introduced them to all sorts of foods, no issues. They didn't seem to care. They'd had several kinds of fish, a flaky white cod they really liked! They had ham, turkey, chicken and beef but in small amounts just to see how their bodies dealt with it. All Okay.

The bank folks and us all had drinks, Ludwig made a toast to Cho and Francis for the idea to buy the Wall Street Investment Bank. We will all make money!

Volare for dinner! Casual dress. Mara did a twirl for me, a cute black dress from Coach. Kuva had brought along, at my suggestion, a skirt and top in a bag, I loaned her a jacket. Cho got out a sweater for Mu.

Giovanni's smile was big. I again left a bit of red on his cheek. We ate well. Kuva beside me as I led through choosing from the menu and sharing. She had little experience with Italian food before this trip. Two dinners in a row!

Antonio da Abruzzi came for his dinner. We toasted! He was doing quite well.

We did afters on our terrace. Tomorrow everyone was coming with us to the races.

Cho's face when I told him about the arrest in London was priceless. I almost took a snap. I got a hug and kiss to reward me for telling him what the solicitor said.

"Well, lots yet to happen but the idea of beating them in court sounds very nice!"

Cho's iPad showed Tom Angleten had extended his lead in Augusta to four strokes. He was ten under par for the two days.

Cho smiling, "I like Tom, he's a great playing partner."

"So invite him to play somewhere. Is he married? A family?"

Cho thought there was family but they hadn't had time for small-talk.

We cuddled, some kissing... caressing too! Sleep. The last thing I remember is I hadn't had a dream for quite a while...

I was sitting on a bench in Washington Square with the morning sun on my face. Gil had Jaidee in George's Dog Run, Mara and Ricardo blading around the fountain. Ken's legs sticking out as he leaned back beside me, behind his shades I knew his eyes were roving.

A quiet start to the day.

We flew over to Aqueduct, the track setup a landing area at the far end of the parking lot behind an old broadcast tower. It was near the barns. Golf carts took us into the barn area. One of Gary's folks met us.

Monaco! Hug and kiss! His opinion... SakChai was ready to go! Carlita seconded that.

"Miss, he's been very active this morning, now he's thinking about the race."

Cho and I stroked his gorgeous white body, he nickered. I gave him a hug! Outside Monaco was smiling.

"It's nice you want to give them a visit. It's a funny... but I think they really like it."

Fist bump.

We had a block of outdoor seats in the higher tier above the saddling paddock and finish line. Our usual group plus our guests, a nice crowd in the area some who recognized Cho. He got many handshakes and applause.

We settled in. There were three races before the Wood Memorial Stakes. I tried to explain the betting to Kuva. Mu did put down a few bets with Ludwig and Erich joining in.

The distaff two year old race before the Wood was terrific. Three fillies racing neck and neck after seven eighths of a mile. The gray pulled away from the others in the last eighth. She was a beauty. I looked at the program, she was a Tapit girl!! He was having a great start to the year as a sire.

I nudged Cho suggesting we might seek to buy `Toes Tapping' since she had a great pedigree and lots of stamina and heart. She would add another link to Secretariat and other wonderful horses like Dr. Fager, Northern Dancer with double connections to Mr. Prospector and Nijinsky to our bloodstock.

He looked, Willard Racing owned her. He said we'd find them in barns after the Wood Memorial. Kiss.

We watched SakChai led by Carlita and Monaco walk into the paddock. His silvery white made the sunlight bounce off his body! The saddling done, they walked out to the track and off to the left. All the horses were down at the turn where the gate was positioned.

The loading was easy, all were ready... CLANG!!

SakChai had a good start from number four straight down the track with a racer on either side close. He was striding well, reaching out. They came by us quickly. Our boy looked good, smooth. The turn saw the horse inside of SakChai move forward. They stayed like that through the turn but on the back straight SakChai overtook the leader.

SakChai passed him about half way then accelerated as the turn came up. Marnie closed him to the rail where speed showed in earlier races. He was five lengths clear when he was at the top of the stretch.

Marnie was hand riding, you could see SakChai up the pace. Six... eight lengths by the eighth marker and no slacking off. He powered over the finish line with an ten length gap. 1:46:40! A new mile and an eighth record for the stakes.

SakChai making a statement!

The White Streak was moving! He was so amazing to watch that body flow down the track like his older half-brother Glaa.

We celebrated! Mara bouncing on her toes with a lovely smile, clapping. Kuva was grinning it was her first time at a horse race and a WOW! Ludwig and Erich smiling, hugs and kisses from them. They were enthusiastic. They made money!

I had Mu's hand after he and Cho hugged.

"Miss Martin, thanks for inviting us. This was wonderful."

"Good! It certainly gets your blood moving doesn't?"

He laughed, nodding.

Cho and Monaco my escorts to the Winner's Circle. It was the first time for us here! The Aqueduct people and the stakes folks were very pleased to have us. Cho got the bling and the check.

I was on the side of the circle next to an Aqueduct track fellow. He asked about our running more horses here. I said probably as we had taken a barn at the Belmont year `round. He was jazzed.

"You have fantastic runners that draw attention to racing. Maybe some of the other trainers might not that happy but we will be." A big thanks!

I thanked him for the consideration of the landing pad, etc... He let me know they would work up something permanent... Okay! We stayed a bit to talk with the track folks since this was our first time at The Big `A.'

We had carts to go to the barn. Marnie had already come back from weighing, she was all smiles. SakChai passed his test. I gently kissed SakChai's nose, he whinnied! Mara caressed his neck which he liked. A loud nicker, a thrill for Mara.

Monaco was going to look him over.

This was his last tune-up race before the Kentucky Derby. He definitely made his case to be the favorite! He'd fly to Lexington to stay in Roundell and Sasha's barn to train before driving over to Louisville for the Kentucky Derby in a four weeks. Marnie was riding here and later in Kentucky before the big race. Carlita was going with her horse.

Monaco thought very highly of `Toes Tapping' and pointed out the Willard Racing barn. Ben Willard was there with his winner. We introduced ourselves, he was quite amazed to find us in his barn.

We praised `Toes Tapping's' effort in her race.

He congratulated us on the Wood Memorial win, he thought SakChai was the TOP Kentucky Derby contender. He'd seen him train, very impressed.

When we asked he gave us a précis of his runners. He mostly raced in New York state and New Jersey at Monmouth. He was working eight horses right now, more later in the summer.

Our interest in `Toes Tapping' was a surprise but he was intrigued by our proposal.

"You're offer is excellent! She's really a terrific mare."

He looked down then decided, "Okay!"

We shook on it. Cho introduced Francis as the person who'd do the money, they shook hands. Then leaned together to discuss the transfer.

`Toes Tapping' would move to the Belmont barn tonight with SakChai. Monaco would decide where we would race her. They'd fly together to Lexington.

Ben Willard was happy which was great! So were we and Monaco!!

We gathered all our crowd to fly back to Manhattan. We were all going our separate ways this evening.

Roslyn did a Mexican Fiesta buffet! It was a big hit! Our Bangkok friends got an entirely new cuisine to sample. Mu preferred the Newcastle to Corona, Kuva chose the Corona.

They loved all the new and different foods! The little burritos and chimichangas were a real hit. Both relished the different dinners!

Kuva said she'd teach me about `banks' when she asked why I wasn't around more. Deal!

We said our goodbyes. Erich and Ludwig to JFK, Mu and Kuva to Newburgh with us, they'd go over the pole to Bangkok. We are going to Seattle.

Stephanie let us know we were cleared for take-off. Jaidee in his seat, Cho's hand in mine. A loud laugh from the Twins cabin!! Grins. We're off!

Cho looked up from his MacBook, "Tom is pulling away! He shot a 64 today! That is terrific! He's eighteen under and leading by eight."

I sat next to him look at the news item. The reporter said Tom seemed to be gaining strength, he birdied the last two holes today.

Cho smiling, happy for his friend. I did a crossed finger gesture. Fist bumps.

Cho and I with Francis went over the Seattle traffic proposal. It was not truly comprehensive, more of a very detailed outline with solid projections for costs and time. Eric, Reg and others in London had worked on it with us. We pulled in information from many people so there had been lots of eyes on it. It was detailed enough to have the meeting and for Seattle Department of Transportation and the Mayor's office to clearly see what could happen.

In anticipation we'd bought the old office supply building south of downtown. It was to be fitted out the way we wanted, an architect was working on plans for the office building to occupy part of the big parking area.

Antoine was happy! He loved the space! We'd move him in there regardless. His current Fremont location would function as a backup, it would be maintained at a fully updated level.

We landed before ten o'clock, dark and a chill breeze across the Boeing Field tarmac. Jaidee did a shiver, me too. We hustled into the cars!

Martha had hot soup and bread ready. Sugar cookies with little icing Space Needle's on top! All very welcome. The Twins had gone straight up, we kissed them good night.

Cho and I sat up for a bit with Francis and Gil talking about the meeting the day after tomorrow. Reg's team was at the Queen Anne house ready to go.

Then a nice snuggle with my men and lights out.

Jaidee was ready to go out. He needed to pee. That done we walked for a bit around the neighborhood then for the rest of his business. Penny with me smiling as I cleaned up. I was laughing! Dog poop in plastic bags!

Breakfast with the Twins! I managed coffee as I helped' them eat their cereal and peaches. The two of them really got' the idea of the spoon! Tha had worked with them so eating wasn't play time. That was great!

The scrambled eggs, toast and potatoes hit my empty spot! A nice hot shower with Cho which had some petting and kissing but no more! Poo!

Reg's folks came over from Queen Anne. They walked us through their part of the presentation after I did the opening and Antoine did a review of the current operations. Then Francis followed them with financials. I did the close.

We sat with coffee to review the proposal for anything we needed to add or take out.

I felt we had coordinated the presentation well and the information was easy to grasp. Cho pretended to be the audience. Ha!

Martha served lunch and we took the afternoon off. I got Gil and Tessa with Tara out for a ride. Myrtle smiling at my question on how she was doing.

Her `terrific!' was great, just what I wanted to hear! Andy could safely leave the stables in the hands of Dean and Myrtle for his wedding and honeymoon. The we could evaluate the situation afterwards.

I was sprawled on the carpet near the fireplace with the Twins. They were doing puzzles now after a fun book reading. Cho and I with Tha's reading acted out the `Little Engine That Could' for them with sound effects!

We snuggled with Jaidee for a bit then lights off. Cho's warmth putting me out so easily.

Jaidee's walk was over quick in the chilly morning. He wanted FOOD! Me too!

Martha smiling as we all tucked into her breakfast! The Twins in their highchairs doing the business! Amazing!

A navy wool long sleeve dress to mid-thigh with a shirt collar, navy accessories and heels. Gold jewellery. `Joy' The Coach navy trenchcoat and gloves.

Cho in navy too. White shirt like new snow and a yellow Harcourt Racing tie. Gold horses at his wrists.

Francis, Gil with PJ and Rande in the car. Grins. Up to the Queen Anne house to meet with Reg's team. A quick review.

A second car joined us for them. We were dropped on Fifth Avenue at the Seattle Municipal Tower. Gil had called Jonathan at his request to manage our coming in via their security.

Jonathan was good and we passed through without any issue. Up the lift to the thirty eighth floor, we were guided into a conference room. It had screens, Reg's team plugged into them right away. My MacBook and one of theirs, we had clickers to control the display.

Jonathan leading the city folks in ... seeing Cho and I was a surprise just like me in Dallas at the GWNW Railroad. They acted reticent, hands shaken with big eyes. The deputy mayor, aides, the head of the Department of Transportation and his top staff all found seats.

I said a hello to Janice. Boy did she remember me. My profile had risen a good bit since our last meeting. Her face a bit glazed.

Once everyone got seated, I did the introduction then had Antoine give a current situation report on the four bridges and the areas surrounding them, north and south of the Lake Washington Ship Canal.

His was a VERY positive account of how our sensors and software had made huge changes to traffic flow. He had video of several intersections before our work and after.

Next was Stephan who was Reg's deputy and a talented engineer. He gave the listeners a view of the sensor technology's present state and where we were going in the short term and further out. He showed them diagrams, nothing too dense, quite clear and he could easily point out features.

This generation of our sensors were now the state of the art and the ensuing superior versions were to be ready for production in a matter of months. He pointed out we owned the manufacturing side and we held the patents for our devices.

After that the other two members of the Reg's team gave them a simplified talk on cell communications and how we used special algorithms devised by ourselves to transmit data faster with lower bandwidth usage.

Stephan came back to tell them about the Metro bus video systems and how our communication innovations had worked for them.

Francis did the financial portion. I enjoyed watching him. A handsome guy, confident, speaking with the assurance of knowing his subject thoroughly.

I could see the Seattle folks locked on to him. This was of course what politicians and bureaucrats really home in on... the money.

Francis was superb. When he was done I could see them speak quietly amongst themselves. I gave them a minute then took back their attention.

I outlined how we wanted to manage the project and the future ongoing operations. Jonathan already knew, his head nodding slowly. They were caught unawares by our wanting to share; their management and our skills as a partnership.

I was sure they they were expecting a `privatization' scheme and were happily surprised. Now they were leaning forward listening as I laid out our ideas.

I gave them the close' and asked for questions. Silence at first then the deputy mayor asked about the partnership' and how we thought it would work. I gave them how we'd setup up the sensor/camera web around the city, build a new HQ/data centre and they would be party to that. Their DOT would make policy and share in operations.

A DOT person inquired about timing and duration of the build out. It had been covered but I went back over it.

Janice asked about our team. I told them Antoine was the person we planned to run the new centre. She looked pleased. He had accomplished the difficult task of building the relationship with the city with flying colours.

We were asked if we could return to do this for the City Council after the DOT folks and the Mayor's office had done their part. We said we would, no problem.

The meeting ended, a few of the city folks stayed to talk. Francis and Stephan each had a couple of around themselves.

Jonathan beside me smiling, "You WOW'd them!"

Fist bump!

He leaned close to Cho and I, "I want to be the city person in charge of this which is why I'm staying put."

I patted his shoulder, "That's good for us too."

The deputy mayor came over to thank us and say goodbye. Smiles and handshakes. The DOT brass were very complimentary!

Going down, Jonathan came with us just in case. He had been concerned about PJ and Rande being armed, he didn't like the buildings security staff. A comment about some of them being `cowboys.' We were out Okay. I gave him a hug!

The cars called by Gil were rolling up. Inside I suggested Senor Moose Café for eats! Everyone was good with that!! Gil called Stephan in the other car. They were good to go wherever!

We unloaded out front on Leary Way NW. Gil had called to ask for the table arrangement we'd had in last visit. They don't do reservations but a party of eleven was large. They remembered us.

We had the front window seats again. Drinks since we weren't driving. Margarita! The two drivers sat with PJ and Rande. We had fun, excellent food and the service was once again very good.

I did go over to the counter to thank the family members for being so kind to our crowd. The lady of the house asked if I would sign a menu which I was happy to do. She said they would frame it and put it on display. A hug!

Reg's folks came over to ours after changing and packing at the Queen Anne house. We relaxed. Their flight to Chalgrove would take them home early this evening.

Stephan had called Reg to give him the story. Reg was hyped when I was passed the iPhone. We'd be in London in a few weeks. His girls were awesome!

Hugs on the drive for the guys flying off. Waves. A successful day.

We celebrated with some Taittinger's before dinner after a walk down to the dock. The `Fay' was tied up, bobbing easily on the water. Tomorrow for me and mine while Cho played golf with Ken.

Under the bed covers snuggled holding the `penis' Cho's grin and a non sequitur, "You were quite the manager today! You run a good meeting just like at the Foundation. Nicely staged! You hooked them... of course they were an easy crowd because they want to fix their traffic woes."

I thanked him for the credit, the `easy crowd' got his cock a nip. He was laughing so hard he was defenseless I slid up on the thing swallowing it. After that the sex was amazing in a sixty-nine of epic orgasms!

Wrung out in the dark, my face on a warm chest, fingers in my hair giving me goosebumps!! Cho chuckled about we started, "I've rarely had my cock bit so enjoyably!"

I didn't ask who else bit him.

A bright morning sun but it was still warm clothes time around here. No bikini's on deck today! The Twins on board with Tha in the saloon. Jaidee on the bow with me. Jud, our captain, Tricia with Annette who was Allen's wife on the bow too. Pam grinning from a chair under a blanket. She was due in two weeks but wouldn't be home bound yet.

All our Security who weren't with Cho. Francis and Gil! Lloyd and Martha too. We had a boat load.

Jud took us south around Magnolia then turned to port into Elliot Bay. From the bow it was a terrific view. The buildings at a distance didn't seem so annoying. Blue sky, green all around the edges.

We motored in closer. The big ferries going by, some sailors out their sails adding to the scene. I could see the gray concrete viaduct and asked Pam about the tunnel.

Pam made a punching motion, "The tunnel boring machine broke through only two days ago! Now they have to finish the insides!"

Wow! She said they'd dismantle the boring machine, there was still at least a year before it would open. I told her about my idea of another tunnel to bleed off traffic from the north bound `99' lanes into the business district south of downtown. She liked it.

An attorney friend of Pam's always complains about her drive from West Seattle into downtown to her office.

"We'll see if the city will go for it. There's the money issue as usual."

In the saloon I was holding Chani sitting on the carpet reading. Charlie with blue dog leaning on my leg, Gil behind him. A book about dogs. Jaidee's head on my other leg enjoying the story too! Then Twins went forward to the Master stateroom for a nap.

Jud had sailed us south from the bay around Alki Point, the Puget Sound stretched out on both sides. I was beside him as he steered us.

"We're going south around Vashon Island."

His right hand pointed back towards an island we had passed, "Blake Island to us white folks, `Tillicum' to the indigenous peoples. There's a mock village with traditional foods and an arts displays. It's Okay, nothing special. Run by the state parks department."

Jud showed me a chart on the console display, we were in Colvos Passage, a long slender stretch of water between Vashon and the mainland to the west. At the south end we'd turn to port around the south end of Vashon then head back north in the main Puget Sound passage. We'd be able to see Tacoma before the turn.

Martha had mushroom soup, bread, cheeses, fruit and piles of cookies for us. I had a mug of soup and big piece of buttered bread on the stern watching things disappear. I went up on the bridge, I took the `con' so Jud could get some eats.

It was pretty much straight ahead due south at this point. The parts of the electronic suite were still mostly a mystery to me, the basic stuff was plain and easy.

Jud sipping from his soup mug, pointing out bits of Tacoma, Point Defiance Park, Commencement Bay and the downtown area. We'd, meaning me, make the turn eastward. It would be a short run then north. Jud said to goose the throttle. You could feel the surge! The engines responded quickly and smoothly.

"Nice isn't it?"

I had to nod with a smile, "Cho is going to love sailing this one."

We left Tacoma in the rear view mirror going at ten knots, very easy! Tricia and Annette came to stand beside the chair.

Tricia patted my shoulder, "So Captain, what do you think?"

"I like but Jud is making it simple."

Soon I had to make another course change to `north by northwest.' I had an internal laugh at that! Cary Grant... oooohhhh!

All the open water ahead and clear skies let us see the airliners stacked up on approach to SeaTac. One after another, not even thirty seconds in between them. It was like a ballet.

I watched Alki Point come up. Jud took over, smiling, "Fay, I'm going to press down on the pedal some more."

Once again I could feel the engines pick up the pace. Pam sitting next to me on the bench behind the Captain's chair. She was nudging me, "I like to go fast in a boat! I'm always asking Ken to go FAST!"

We laughed, hugging!

We crossed the mouth of Elliot Bay very quickly! Magnolia's bluffs loomed above us. West Point lighthouse still handsome, a relic now. We rounded into Shilshole Bay aiming for our dock. Jud eased us to slow doing a small circle to come up to tie up. I jumped lightly to the pier deck after putting the fenders out.

A gentle bump. I had the stern line around the cleat. I went forward Francis tossed me the other line. Fini! Jud leaned out with congratulations for a job well done! I gave him a salute.

Cho was walking down the dock clapping! Kiss, HUG! Together we helped everyone off. Extra careful with Pam! Tha said she enjoyed the day. The Twins had been out on the upper rear deck, bundled up! Annette was glad to get to know me a bit. A good day!

I kissed Pam goodbye, a car taking her home. Jud took Tricia and Annette in the boat they'd come out from the boatyard in. A big thanks from us!

We helped Martha taking things up to the house. We planned to do a takeaway tonight so not much work for her. Indian was the choice! The Tandoori Hut said forty minutes. Okay. Francis and Gil would go in a Security car.

We did drinks for them since they weren't driving. Campari and soda ! Cho's scotch, smoky dark. We sat in the living room so I could get the tale of the game.

They'd played at the Seattle Golf Club, Ken's home course. A club Pro and a friend of Ken's joined them. The Pro knew what Cho had done to the poor Bel-Air course. He was wondering a lot less what would happen to his after the first hole.

The First is a straightaway par four of four hundred and twenty yards from the Black Tee.

Cho smiling, "I felt a bit wound up. I really clobbered the drive dead down the middle about three hundred and thirty or so yards. A pitching wedge to the green. The hole was towards the front right. I dropped the ball eight or nine feet above, it spun back to drop in. An eagle to begin!"

I knew my eyes were glistening, "Fay... " Cho motioned me into his lap, a kiss.

I didn't know beans about golf but I loved hearing Cho relate his day.

"The Pro shaking his head said he could see my game was still hot. I was! Five under on the front Nine then at the turn there was another straight par four quite like the First. I played it the same. A booming drive and a pitch shot to the green which rolled in for my second eagle. Four birdies through the rest of the holes. A 61, eleven under. The best round there for decades."

A squeeze from me!

"In the clubhouse the members were astonished and very pleased for me. Lots of handshakes and some nice scotch!! Ken and the Pro played well too. Ken at par, the Pro three under. Ken's friend was at eighty after a couple of trips into some rough spots which weren't good experiences."

I gave my golfer kisses as his reward!

Before dinner Cho was looking at news, he called to me, "Tom's done it! He won the Masters! He finished twenty under par, a new record score for the tournament!!!"

I sat beside him as he dialed Tom's cell number. Cho was happy for his friend, they chatted for a few minutes. A nice smile on Cho's face, "He's moved into a new realm... he's in the top echelon now."

I squeezed him, I asked if he was to play in the Pro-Am at Winged Foot. Cho said he was. Good!

We sat with the Twins for their dinner while ours was being picked up. The banana at the end always greeted with smiles. Those cute little teeth showing as the banana got munched. Damn they loved their food!

The smell of our dinner being laid out!!! Fish and shrimp from the tandoor oven, biryani rice, lots of veggies, pakoras, dal soup, naan. Martha had some of the creamy ice cream we liked with lots of sprinkles for dessert.

Well-fed sitting on the carpet with Cho and the Twins. Afters and the fire going, a nice evening. Chani's yawn giving us the cue. Her arms around my neck as we carried the darlings up to bed. Kisses and hugs.

I got the same later beside our bed. Jaidee got his. Warm, calm, cuddled with Cho!

The morning had a good chill so I dressed warmly for a dog walk and a trip to the stables. Chess was so bouncy once he saw me! A big hug and nose kiss. Myrtle was on the first shift, she was having a blast working for us!

From what I got from Andy she was always eager and had given him some ideas about promoting the stables! He's trying some of them out.

Chess was saddled, Guy for Tara, Artis for Gil and Fury for Tessa. We headed out west around the playfield and parking going for the old parade ground. We did several circuits of the field then down the road to West Point.

The warning system working perfectly, we didn't see any trucks. On the sand we had a great run along the beach down and back to the lighthouse. We trotted up the hill to the level space then on the road with the trees arching overhead. We galloped the perimeter of the playfield to the road crossing next to the stables.

Andy was there with a huge smile. I slid down to a fist bump. He was good, looking forward to his wedding in two months.

"The best part is I don't have to do anything which makes Audra laugh."

A hug! We walked back to the house talking about the pleasures of riding.

Eileen calling, "Sue's in labor!! We're at the hospital!"

She was ecstatic, running on with an account of it starting and their trip to the hospital, St. Mary's, the same one in Paddington where Malee and Rona had been. She'd keep me up to date.

Matthew and Rose were enroute to London as we talked. More new life.

Martha was ready for us. Cho had helped with The Twins breakfast. All eaten and cleaned up. They were in the living room playing.

We got lovely omelets! Leaning back on Cho sipping coffee. We would be going different directions today. Gil and Francis would keep up to see if lunch together worked.

Black leather slacks, crop black T, long sleeved cropped red jumper, Hugo Boss moto jacket, gloves. Black spike heeled ankle boots. It wasn't spring yet, a real chill today with clouds coming in from the ocean.

I met Karl of Metro at the bus base south of downtown. All the staff working on the project were smiling as I shook hands. Every bus had a device on board, all the Mac OS X servers were on line and functioning perfectly in their new home space next door to the big barn.

Helmut and one of Reg's people had been here last week for a review. `Awesome' was the verdict!

We drove over a half dozen blocks to the new building for the traffic folks.

A young attorney from the Queen Anne law firm was at the door of the old big box office supply building waiting. He had opened the doors for our architect, Logan, to set up his things.

After greetings we stepped up to his large display boards, he started with the exterior. Not much change, the big item was the solar panels all over the roof. Even in Seattle they could power the basic needs of the building but of course not the data centre.

Inside there would be lots of new things! The entire structure was earthquake safe now but two steel grids would be erected in the middle going up to the roof with a new flex design connection up there. That would make it proof against a seismic event three times stronger than any recorded.

The grids running parallel leaving a twenty foot space in between; after they were cross-connected the floor level part would become a walled corridor going front to back giving direct access to the rear. The buttresses on the sides at human height level would be incased in partition walls.

The huge screens for the main control room would hang from the grid on the left side of the building. They could be one gigantic view or broken into multiple camera locations and also display data. Fronting the big screen were two long wide desks with multiple user positions, the second on a riser behind the first with a ramp up. On the exterior wall a row of private offices; in between those and the control room were work spaces and conference rooms. A break room was in the centre facing the outside wall.

The right side was the data centre which would be planned by Reg and his team. Thousands rack mounted Apple Mac OS X Servers would be over there to run the system and for backup, management and communications.

Outside a power backup generator system beside the environmental control equipment. In summer we'd vent the heat from the data centre, in winter it would heat the building. A pair of controller OS X Servers would balance out the temperature.

The existing office space at the back would be for Security, the large bathrooms would have showers added. The loading dock bays would be angled so a truck would drive in from one gate, back up to a dock and drive out the opposite gate when done. No need for turning space.

I had notes from Sumate about the Security division's plans. A surrounding fence and four gates. In' and out' gates for the parking area, the same for the rear loading dock area. Our usual array of monitoring equipment surrounding the location.

Logan had preliminary drawings for the office building to go beside the original structure along the north wall. Three floors, on the first and second floors a central corridor with offices and conference rooms toward the exterior walls, the ground floor to have a reception area with two lifts and the usual maintenance spaces. Half of the ground floor would be a canteen for all the on-site staff.

The most Eco-friendly and safe recycled materials would be used, solar arrays on the roof and portions of the sides. An enclosed walkway connection to the main building would have ducts to carry the heat from the data centre to the new building's forced air system. That would be under more solar arrays. Sweet!

I liked Logan, he spoke clearly, his designs were simple and effective, he was cute too! I grinned when I saw Tara, Tessa and Gil giving him the once-over. If he noticed it didn't show.

The attorney, Carlyle, had been with us watching Logan's presentation, I took his arm and Logan's to walk out to the parking area. The new building's planned site on the side of the main structure would leave a large square parking area; I asked them as design' and legal' how about covering the parking area with a steel grid and putting solar panels up on top.

Logan said it was just a simple design but we shouldn't cover over the gate areas and leave a route near the building for maintenance equipment to roll around. Otherwise easy. Okay! Would the arrays pay for the work? And how long to ROI? He'd do the math and get back to me.

The young lawyer's opinion, which he did qualify as he'd want to do research to be sure, was that we could do it under existing law and the city would probably encourage us. Both would send me more when they'd done their studies.

I thanked them. They said it was a great venture and hoped it would go forward. Well we were moving Antoine's crew anyway.

We mounted up for an interlude. We got on the 5 Freeway going north to the University District. It didn't take long as the late morning traffic was light.

Redlight Clothes on the `Ave' for Tessa. And me! The sales lady, Lisa, told me why it was called "The Ave' instead of University Way Northeast. Nice.

Lots of interesting things here!! Right off I found a sweater' jacket, it's not a jumper it's a sweater' from Tara! Ha. It was black wool, lined with black silk, zip up, slender shape great for my figure, stopping at the top of my hips. The sleeves just past my wrists. A raised collar and a row of little yellow embroidered buttercup flowers on each side of the zipper.

In the mirror it was RIGHT! Lisa, the sales woman smiling, "They were thinking you. You like?"

I said `YES!'

"Wait please, I'll be right back."

She dashed off. Tara had a jean jacket, I could see Gil had some tops, so did Tessa.

"I want them to go with jeans in the summer, " Tessa's grin huge as she held up a white cotton peasant blouse with intricate embroidery in white. A very `Sixties' look!

The Redlight lady came back with another sweater, the same style in blue. Not as dark as navy, exactly the same except the flowers were tiny red rose buds. Okay!

"Sold!"

The sales lady gave me a thumbs up. I leaned over to nudge Gil who nodded after I spoke, "I'll leave contact info with if anything more like them should come in, Okay?"

The sales woman said `sure!'

Gil took a call from Jonathan he said the Mayor wants the City Council to see some documents and we can we provide those soon plus do the presentation again?

"Okay, hang on a second."

I pulled Gil into a corner, she consulted the calendar. The Monday after the Kentucky Derby was the best. Right before a visit to the White House.

Back on with Jonathan, "May the sixth in the morning before ten o'clock is the soonest and most likely day and time."

"I'll make it work. At the Municipal Building again?"

"Maybe... I have an idea and will be back to you."

We were good. Gil would get on to Reg and Stephan for the documents to be sent to Jonathan.

I asked Gil to contact Kavat, a Gulfstream from Louisville to here then next day to Virginia. Also look into an idea I had about the presentation arrangements.

Okay... back to shopping. I had the two sweaters (jumpers... quietly), my ladies had multiple items each. Tessa had six tops! We all paid. I picked up a business card and gave it to Gil. The sales lady was pleased with us!!

She did my charge, head down but I could see a smile when she read the name on the card. Eyes up to mine...

"I thought so but I didn't want to bother you, you all seemed to enjoy your shopping."

I thanked her, "Yes, were have been a bit noisy and giggly."

"Oh NO! You weren't any trouble! No one else really here. I've seen pictures of you online... your clothes are terrific... so I wondered if it was really you looking around in here."

I laughed, "Well I like all sorts of looks and being comfortable is important. These jump... sweaters will be great for many places and for riding."

Gil, the ex-Girl Guide always prepared, had a blank note card. It had a snap of a caramel tabby boy cat on the outside, inside I wrote a thank you to `Lisa' for all her help and we were pleased to shop here. I signed it.

Lisa was thrilled, a tear which was whisked away.

"That is very nice of you, Miss Martin. I love cats so even better."

A hug and cheek kiss. We loaded our treasures into the boot and went south. I asked Glenn our driver for a stop and pick up. He was fine with it. We agreed to the exact location looking at Maps on Gil's iPad and said we wouldn't be long.

He dropped us at 15th Avenue NE at West Stevens Way NE. We went around a building into Red Square facing Suzzallo Library of the University of Washington. Imposing and handsome front to the library. A right turn sent us between two rows buildings on a walkway which debouched into a large long plaza with a big fountain.

We were four young women in pants walking along without backpacks or books which was quite different from the rest of the crowd. The sun was trying to emerge, no wind, warming towards a nice spring afternoon. We got some looks mostly by guys. We shared a bench at the waterside, legs out leaning back sun on our faces.

Eileen called, The Baby was born! A beautiful girl, healthy with good lungs! Sue was great! Sue had it rough only at the end which was fortunately short!

"We're very happy! Mom and dad arrived right after Rosalie was born. They are are going mildly crazy."

Laughing I said they should have some time to do that for now. Aileen laughing too, "They'll have to calm down sooner or later. Thank you and Cho for the gift. I got the notice yesterday!"

"Everyone loves that! So much work saved! Tha says it saved her at least twenty five percent of her work time. Enjoy... well... as much as you can enjoy diapers."

Much more laughing. She said her brothers had been very happy, the older saying how he hoped all our little cousins would be close. That was terrific! Completing a big change for him!

Snaps to follow!

A blonde girl going by... looked and stopped. A companion bumped into her with a 'what the hell Allie!' `Allie' whispered something to her motioning with her head towards us four.

Okay, time to move on. I reached into the jacket pocket for my round red sunglasses. Tessa leading, me, Gil and Tara started to walk towards the car location.

`Allie's' voice, "Miss Martin, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to disturb you."

I paused, "It's Okay we need to get on."

She looked upset, my hand on her arm, "Thanks for the `sorry.' Few people would do it."

"It's amazing you being here!! I... we... think you're terrific!"

Her friend smiling over `Allie's' shoulder nodding.

I grinned, thanked them and a hug for each.

We turned for the car. A nice walk in the sun until we got near the car, a campus police vehicle was behind our car. The officer talking to Glenn, our driver. He was looking at what we found out was Glenn's concealed weapon permit.

We walked up Tessa leading, our ex-cop, she asked if there was a problem. Her voice had a command tone which the cop caught. We had his attention now.

I stepped beside her, "I'm sorry it's my fault. I wanted to see some of the campus and we aren't familiar with the lay of the land. We will leave right away."

The policeman said cars weren't permitted to park on this stretch of the road. I took off my sunglasses so he could see my face and said sorry again.

He got it like `Allie' and stammered some when he said it was Okay if we did drive off immediately. I thanked him and shook his hand. We loaded up and were out. Once down the road a bit we laughed.

"Well if I have to put up with the nosy photographers and reporters because I'm a bit known why not use it every now and then?"

I tapped Glenn's shoulder, "You didn't want any fuss, right?"

He laughed, "No thanks! He was being a bit officious about my sidearm which you quickly swept away. He looked star struck."

Gil laughing said `Fay power!'

We all laughed at that!

We crossed the Ship Canal over the Montlake Bridge and up onto the top of Capitol Hill. We parked at the Clinic, lunch! Francis' call said he and Cho would eat downtown. Too bad they'd miss out!

Regina and Tana joined us for the short walk to the Regent Bakery and Café.

We did calamari and deep fired wontons for the table, crab meat soup and the honey walnut prawns again for me! All very good!!!

I got two big boxes of an assortment of all their cookies, one for the clinic and one for us. Tana carried theirs with a big grin, Gil ours.

A walk through of the clinic to see what was left to complete, meet a few of the staff who were on site. Some were setting up the offices and treatment rooms, etc... One group in a training session on the computer systems. They were all happy to be with us, looking forward to the opening.

Our real estate lady met us to look at the two buildings adjacent to the clinic we had purchased. One had been occupied by a retailer, the other just emptied used to be a weight training place. Both were big squares giving us a simple space to design for our use.

We were planning an LGBTQ teen homeless shelter. All would be welcome! A warm safe place to relax, an individual private sleeping room, showers and clothes washing rooms, recreation and quiet time space. Food! Meals and snacks made from good quality ingredients, served fresh and hot!

We would offer healthcare and counseling next door at the clinic, ask local governments and non-profits to send over job assistance people and housing advisors.

I told Tilda, our real estate lady I thought we had been lucky getting them at reasonable prices. I thanked her for her persistence with the owners! Fist bump!

She said for our purpose they were in a good spot on Capitol Hill.

I had given Regina a heads-up on this, she had a woman for me to interview as possible manager, Janesse.

"Now to be up front, I know Janesse. She's smart, organized, careful and a loving soul."

"Okay you like her." We laughed! Fist bumps!

I sat in Regina's office with Janesse. She was wearing a pleasant long sleeve floral dress, spring colours, nice. Low heels, minimum makeup and a bit of bling. Her dark hair in those cute short dreadlocks I liked on Tessa. A terrific smile on a nice face.

"Well knock me down... I'm sitting talking to Fay Martin! A hero!"

I laughed, smiling, "Thanks for that! I hope it lasts! So how long for your transition?"

She'd had surgery twelve months ago and her health was one hundred percent! Excellent!

We discussed the project, what she would bring, her experience in the field and why she wanted to move from her current job.

"My current employer has been good about my transitioning. I took a leave of absence to do the surgery and my return was fine. What has been made clear is I can't move upward because I would have to be more of a `face' for the company which they worried would be an issue for some clients."

I was nodding, "I see their mindset. It's Okay to tolerate your changes because refusing might get them sued but to allow you be seen as their representative is too much."

"Yes, so I need to move on. I want to be back to hands on rather than at a distance."

I went down her CV again, lots of experience working with people and the latest with publishing a range of literature for teens. A BS in Social Work was very good, cum laude! She was a local girl.

We chatted about the job and how it could be exhausting mentally and emotionally, taking lots of time at first. She had no significant other, just going out with friends. I pointed out I didn't want her to be married to the job.

She gave me a smile, "I get it."

"So do you want to try it?"

"Yes, very much,"

"Okay, you're `IT'... contingent on a background check. Okay?"

"Wonderful! I'm ready!"

We talked about staff which would have to be on site around the clock, kitchen folks and interface with the trained social workers at the clinic to support the teens and deal with the inevitable `issues' they would bring with them from their lives.

"We don't have a relationship with the city police but that will be needed. We will want to help the kids without putting them at risk with the cops."

I could see Janesse got that. She told me of a several encounters with the local police as a teen when her gender was non-binary at the time.

I heard about the long running issues the Seattle police had with stereotyping and brutality and the about the `consent decree' with a Federal judge overseeing the department's attempts at reform.

Janesse said, "At this point I would say the reform has failed. The Seattle cops shoot too often when talking or backing up would defuse the situation. They've killed unarmed people or people with knives which aren't as lethal as the semi-automatics they carry. By regulation they are supposed to carry tasers but it seems they don't like them. They like their guns."

I was looking at her face tensing up, "Well it looks like some effort needs to be made to protect the shelter from them."

Janesse looking at the ceiling, I could see she was emotional and waited.

A quiet Yes. "I don't know how to do that."

"We have a company which might. I will put them on it."

I asked Gil to call Sumate for me. I gave Janesse some insight to our Security.

"They're here... right now."

I waved Tessa and Tara to come in. Introductions done they chatted while I talked with Sumate to put some thought to what might be done here to safeguard the shelter in every way. His `he was on it' made me laugh. I knew he wasn't being flip.

Tessa and Tara gave Janesse some idea of what our Security company was like and how it worked around our homes and other properties. I added that Sumate would have a survey done by Nicholas' team after the clinic security system went live next week.

I put my arm around Gil, she'd check with Martha about adding a few folks to dinner. She'd go get Regina and Tana to come see me.

I turned back to Janesse, "Would you be able to come to dinner at ours?"

A beaming face, a vigorous nod. Dreadlocks bouncing.

I motioned towards myself saying this was the dress code. A grin.

Martha said no problem so Janesse, Regina and Tana and their kids were in for dinner. Done.

Gil had all the addresses so cars could pick them up. She organized all that while I made some calls.

I was at the door to greet guests. Kay! Big hug! Greg, Artie and my buddy Suchart... Oh! He said Sam.

I squatted down beside him, arms surrounding the little man, "Hi Sam. Glad you came over for dinner. You like grilled fish?"

A definite NOD to that. I kissed his cheek! Big grin!

Kay with a loving smile. Another big hug!

"You started something at Christmas, he's been growing into a young man not my baby boy anymore."

We hugged again, "You're Okay with it?"

"Yes! Greg thinks he's the smartest of the three... so we'll encourage him."

More hugs!

Cho got introduced to Tana and us both to her twelve year old daughter, Tora.

Janesse gave me a wink after she met Cho. I laughed.

Drinks and some Jaidee playtime on the lawn. Bobby and Sam throwing one of Jaidee's tennis balls. Artie dug out a Cho football, with some help, to kick around with Bailey.

Tora stayed with the adults. A bit shy but very cute. Wonderful braided hair.

A chill wind drove us inside to the fireplace. Cho added some wood and we talked all sorts.

I got a piece of news from Cho. He was joining the Seattle Golf Club. Okay! I wondered when he'd do that here. It was good, he liked the course and playing with Ken was a treat.

I told Janesse the rehabilitation of the two locations for the shelter was already being planned. Kotro would do a plan for the shelter joining the two buildings then we'd get to work. My initial thoughts were to use the larger space as the main room, kitchen, dining hall, etc and the second building subdivided into bedrooms, bathrooms with showers and the laundry room. Maybe we'd open a doorway between them and the clinic.

Once had Kotro's plan we could talk to the city about the relevant laws, occupancy rate, etc...

I told Janesse I wanted to keep them separate as discrete entities but allied. She was nodding, "I think you're right. We would certainly have cross-over clientele but housing and caring for them is different."

Fist bump!

Martha started us with a creamy pea soup! Lovely warm stuff! Then grilled halibut with a lemon pepper sauce. Tangy and tasty! Whipped potatoes with garlic, grilled asparagus and fennel, slightly crunchy cross buns.

I helped Sam cut up his fish and veggies! Huge smile on his cute face!

A very nice white Bordeaux, suggested by Carter, was terrific with the meal.

Little chocolate tarts smothered in vanilla ice cream and sprinkles of all sorts. Each one had a small triangle of sweet honeycomb pastry sticking up! Nice! A monster hit with Artie, Sam, Bailey, Bobby and Tora!!!!

Sam had no trouble eating this part of dinner!

To be perfect for Artie it only needed to be on fire like the Cherries Jubilee! He told the others about the fiery dessert!

Afters for adults by the fire on a chilly evening. Hot chocolate for the younger set.

It was a school night so not too late. I got to hug Bobby and Bailey this time not just handshakes. Tora was sweet and seemed pretty smart. She like being with us adults you could tell.

Artie and Sam... big hugs! Sam kissed my cheek! Greg and Kay grinning!

Kay holding me, "Once Sam goes to Pre-School I would like to explore volunteering at the shelter or clinic. Does that seem good?"

I squeezed her, "Yes! We would love having you involved!"

I tapped her forehead, "It's always nice to have smart people around!!"

We laughed, we hugged some more.

Cheeks kissed and hugs all around on the drive.

We were propped up in bed leaning on each other. Cho's fingers gently rubbing my thigh. I brought up the topic of power...

Cho laughed, "Okay what are you up to now?" A more laughing by him.

I took his face in my hands... a kiss...

"You read the email from the London solicitors... they sense the weakness of News UK's position through their responses to our lawsuit... with the additional `offences' to come I think their analyses of outcomes rings true..."

Cho wrapped me in strong brown arms, "Yes... so...?"

I said we should consider it a jumping off point to expand our media holdings.

"I think we should consider buying some of the Fox affiliates especially in the so-called `red states' to open them to a broader view of the country and the world... beyond what Fox News is already doing and adding in the changes on the entertainment side.

And... we should also consider buying some print media in large and small American markets. We could absorb any losses from the small operations with the money from the larger ones. We should NOT close off the headline stories on the websites behind a firewall either. By offering some reason to give us money and trust that we won't abuse their data we can gain readers."

Cho squeezed a bit... "If we get the Sun...?"

I felt my face break into a monster smile, "We go FOR IT! Get a great team in to write and edit it. If the staff wants to be in a union we say `Go For It' and help them.

We tell the country and the world we believe in a liberal democratic political system! And we support any member of Parliament regardless of party who feels the same.

Be the opposite of the current owners in every way possible! Just like Fox!"

Cho was grinning now. More kissing.

"I want us to be leaders in honest, fair and accurate journalism! Give our people tools and send them off!"

I was rolled onto my back, a Cho on top... my face covered in kisses!!

"Miss Martin, you want to save the planet from itself?"

"No, just from the scumballs who want to make gobs of money and put nothing back in. We need to be leaders, you and me."

I long passionate kiss, arms and legs intertwined! When we came up for air there was the cute smile on Cho's face, "Okay! I'm in! AND... I'm going to let you lead. I'll be around for ideas and such."

"I'm Okay with that. I'm the one pushing at it."

In the morning I told Gil and Francis about I was going to start. They were into it too!

"One thing when you get married... " a finger pushing on Francis' shoulder, "I want Ali to help me manage this."

His face... a huge smile, "I'm sure she'd love it."

"Call her and get her impression."

Thumbs up!

Walking over to ride in the chilly fog. I was talking to Mac and Hélène first given the time. They were both enthusiastic, Hélène especially so. As a separate piece I briefed them on our lawsuit, Mac was sure the M***********'s would never pay cash but hand over the newspaper.

"We've chopped the legs out from under their `media' empire all's that's left are the under-performing prints parts," he reasoned. We felt the same.

Okay! Two down, seven to go.

I'd stopped outside the stables perimeter to finish my call. Tess and Tara with me. I rang off and they were grinning.

"Fay, you're gonna rule the world at this rate," Tessa's hand squeezing my mine. We all laughed.

Andy and Myrtle had been alerted to our coming so the horses were ready. Chess bouncing as we crossed the grassy lower field. A power romp around the old parade ground was absolute fun. We crisscrossed the open space many times laughing!

We took a break up the slope beside the Chapel looking at the gray green view. The fog lifting, Puget Sound was steel gray dotted with shipping. It was a peaceful scene, quiet, very beautiful.

We didn't let the horses get cold and rode in a nice trot back to the stables. Hug for Andy!

Tha had breakfast for the Twins, Cho supervising! I took over half of the work, Charlie. My little guy spooned his peaches right in! I didn't have to do anything but wipe his chin. Bright eyes! He loved feeding himself! Terrific!

Washed and packed, we headed down to Boeing Field. We did a visit to both Boeing Field businesses. Amarha `s reports all said they were doing great! She was flying when we arrived so we annoyed the staff.

Matthew looked happy behind his desk. I got a thumbs ups from him.

"Miss Martin, business is up! The nicer helicopters and the advertising is doing the job."

Cassidy said things were humming! They loved fixing up the 737 for us! I told him we haven't seen it yet but Jian ad Ku enjoyed being on board.

On to Los Angeles for a short stay before the Arkansas Derby. In two hours were on the ground at Santa Monica.

Amarha's dad Randall was there getting ready to fly his WWII fighter plane. We talked briefly. He and Amarha's mom were flying up to Seattle in a three days for a week's visit.

We said we'd missed her earlier today. We wished them a good time.

We got to meet Sarita, one of Dolores' cousins, she would deputize at the Venice house when we were at the Topanga ranch. She would do the cooking for the Security folks and others.

We motored up to Topanga, Dolores texted she had lunch for kids and adults ready! Yea! Fish tacos, beans and rice, salsa with tortilla chips for us! Fish, carrots and fruit for the Twins. We had a joint meal in the bright sunlit kitchen!

Malachi and Tonelle arrived right on time. We did a tour of the whole house. The terrace was done, so too the dining room and half the living room. Our bedroom and the the two linked by a bathroom for the Twins and Tha completed.

The Twins' was very cute just like the plan! A warm rich yellow with blue accents set off the cherry furniture nicely. Their cribs side by side next to the big changing table with its `tools' on shelves above. A cabinet for all the diapers to be used and a closed part for the diaper bin.

Toys and books on shelves accessible to the babies. Seating for Tha and soft carpeting for little crawlers. The windows let in the morning sun! Very cozy for them.

Tha was smiling, "It is very wonderful like the others!"

We did review the rest of the house, mostly done, the odd piece to come. The media room was finished. Cho grinning at the card table. Decks of new cards and a big round holder full of red, white and blue poker chips! The TV was a Panasonic and looked great. Francis connected his iPad on the long HDMI cable and streamed the John Wayne African adventure `Hatari' onto the screen. It was awesome in 1080! Little Tembo splashing in the water hole jumped off the screen at you!

Dolores grinning, "My rooms are great! Really comfy bed!" Fist bump!

Email from Sasha... she was pregnant! She just was leaving the doctor's office. She had done a `home' thing but hadn't told Roundell. Now it was official!

I called her right away. Many cheers from me! She cried.

"Fay, I so wanted this. Keep in touch and remind me millions of women have done this and I shouldn't obsess!"

I agreed to be her conscience! She was heading direct to the stables to tell Roundell!! I sent our love to them!

A call from Dayton. We knew Dari, his Ex, had given the Okay for their daughter Mari to ride out here. They were driving up to Topanga now to see us. Great!

I changed for a ride! Tessa and Tara to come with me.

Cho and Francis had a project to work on, Gil was setting up calls to the New York city 21st Century Fox Board members for me. I'd talked with William on the flight down after doing Ken. They both were in favor of my plan to buy affiliates in Red States and diversify their broadcasting. Pedro and Lori were coming up for dinner tonight.

We greeted our guests on the front steps. Mari bounced out...

Mari loved my black riding clothes.

"Fay you have such style!"

I brought my hat up and on! She covered her mouth... big eyes!!

"Fay!!!!"

A hug for her!

I met Dari, her mom. She'd come to ride too. They were dressed in traditional clothes.

"Dari, welcome!" A warm handshake and cheek kiss. Pretty! I could see where Mari got her looks and figure.

I got a hug from Dayton. Cho kissed some cheeks, the ladies. We were all smiles.

"Let's ride and then you can see the house. Okay?"

They were good with that. The guys walked with us. Viv and Nadine had had the horses ready. Since we were five riders Viv saddled `Barbie' her palomino filly for us.

I led us out on to the grassy flats going towards the two small hills. Walking then a soft trot, taking easy as Dari said she hadn't been out for six months or so.

Passing between the two small hills went down into the shallow valley and across the brook to a trail. Up the valley heading southwest now. After three quarters of a mile I took us more to the left up the slope of the eastern side of the valley.

We worked our way up to the craggy shelf at the top. A view south over the hills dropping into the deep blue sea. What a sight! Snaps taken by everyone.

To our left was the relay station on Saddle Peak Road. We retraced our route to keep it simple today. On the flats I had Inky open it up for the last mile. He loved doing that. The others spread out behind us.

Jaidee, Wonda and Billie were waiting with PJ and Viv. We walked to the house chattering about the ride. Mari had enjoyed herself, she knew she was welcome here any time.

Me... arm in arm with Dari. She was happy we would share with her daughter.

"It is so generous of you and Cho. She loves riding. She has her provisional driver's permit but I won't allow her to drive to Fallbrook. So the trip becomes something of a production. She could drive up here on her own. It's only about twenty miles and no freeway."

"Good. She could ride all she wants down on the flats, if she wants to go out on a trail she should go with one of our staff."

"I'm sure she'll be happy either way. The ride today showed how rough it could so being alone isn't good."

Mari leaned in, "I get it, Mom. On the night of the Classic Ball Fay said she wouldn't go out there alone."

Fist bump! Dari's eyes rolled.

I gave them a house tour. Dari really liked the whole informal appearance of the house and interiors. We paused on the terrace.

"It looks like a place to live rather than a show piece. Ours started as more of show but I've changed it over the years. Dayton never liked it which is why he signed it over to me so easily..."

She was laughing looking at him stick his tongue out at her.

Cho waved his hand towards the house, "This entirely Fay's work, I've had nothing to say about it."

"Well since we are coming up here to ride and have some friends over why make anything else of it?"

Fist bump with Dari. We headed to the kitchen for coffee. Dolores working on dinner. We were going to have a buffet outdoors and in the dining room for all of us with Lori, Shira, Letti and Pedro coming up.

Dari and Mari brought changes of clothes so I set them up in one of the bedrooms with robes and linens.

A wash up and I changed to black skinny jeans, a black crop T and ankle boots, a hoodie on-call for the evening chill. Silver bangles and `Joy'

Mari asked what the scent was, I drew her into my boudoir... She got dabbed a few times. A huge grin! We went out to the terrace, she leaned onto her dad's shoulder. His head did a swivel...

"Wow someone is growing up!"

We laughed, "So Dad... Pretty good stuff... right?"

Dayton nodding. Mari and I did a pirouettes beside him. I landed in Cho's lap. A kiss.

The Twins on the terrace with Tha. Dayton had Chani, he was making faces with her. You could make the most horrible leering squinty looks... all she did was laugh!

Security texted Gil that our other guests were coming up the drive. Out front to greet them, hugs, kisses and handshakes! Lovely to have them here. Our first gathering in this house.

Drinks and starters! Dolores had another cousin up to help, Sarita's sister Sora. She laid out the salsas and chips, little chimichangas and cut veggies with dip. We noshed and talked.

I had Pedro and Lori aside to talk 21st Century Fox things. They very much in favour of expanding the corporate reach. All good. I had a conference call planned with the three New Yorkers in the morning from the plane.

Now back to FOOD! A wonderful spread! Make your own grilled shrimp tacos, small veggie burritos, fluffy rice and beans! Tasty vittles from Dolores! Everyone was smiling as they ate!

I sat with Dari. We chatted all sorts then I asked about Mari going to Harcourt House to ride and meet Sunny. Would Dari want to go?

She was interested. My describing the riding fun she could also have, see some of London from our house there...

"Can I ask why Mari... me?"

I looked into her eyes, "I.. We... like Dayton! He's a terrific guy."

Dari's eyes closed and she turned her head nodding, "He is terrific. I saw him walk you out to be with Cho at the golf tournament... that was amazing."

"He's so gentle being the big fellow he is. It was very gallant of him. I felt much better going out to be in limelight with him accompanying me."

Dari was looking away, a bit sad. I nudged her.

A shaken head, an eye wiped... I handed her a Cho-Fay handkerchief. A smile then she saw the monogram, a looked question... I always loved telling the tale.

She gave me a long gaze, "You seem like a troublemaker."

I felt the huge grin on my face, I saw her take it in, "I am trouble in many ways!"

"My, you do seem proud of that."

"I'm pleased to make trouble for folks because things come from it... good things! If you're on my bad side then watch out!" I laughed!!

"I read a magazine piece on you. It was Vanity Fair. They said right up front they hadn't interviewed you. Their conclusions were that you wielded great power in subtle ways and you were close to President Clinton. So there's a certain reserve and wonder sitting beside you."

I laughed, "Okay! My ground rules are that I never eat children or beat my dog."

Dari laughed at that.

"Good! You see now know Mari won't be on the menu!"

The giggling was great.

I took Dari's arm walking down the path to the overlook bench.

"Well... I'm also naughty and I meddle."

"You mean Dayton and me?"

"I don't know either of you very well which I hope we'll change... but... Yes."

"We separated because of Mari, we didn't want to fight around her. We were arguing about Dayton's being consumed by work. He was rebuilding the bank from management failures of those before him... pouring himself into it! Twelve... fourteen hour days. He was determined. We had plenty of money so I gave him a hard time about it being an ego thing... I imagine you can figure it out."

She shrugged, "We thrashed it out and decided to divorce even though we loved each other. It felt almost robotic, automatic after that, one step after another until it was done. Mari missed her dad, he was good and made a place in his schedule for her. By the time she was eight or so we considered coming back together but the backwash of the recession roiled the banks and Dayton was under a lot of new pressure so it drifted away."

Dari looking out in the dark towards the lights of Santa Monica.

"So if you both were included in invitations it would be Okay?"

A pause, "Yes. I don't think he goes out any more than me which isn't much."

I squeezed her hand. Lori came out to say they were going, an early morning. They were driving to Palm Springs.

I hugged her. I asked them if they had known each other, they had seen one another at a few get togethers. I got a kiss at the door from Shira and hug from Letti, a warm kiss and tight squeeze from Lori.

When they drove off Dari had a questioning look. "We've been close for a few years and Lori is a board member of 21st Century Fox."

An 'Ah' face!

"She and Pedro both were part of it all. We introduced she and Shira. Shira works, although not much these days, for our Security force."

"You and Cho doing that with Fox was incredible. I remember thinking when I heard that it was one of the best things to have happened in years!"

After a stop to grab my hoodie I steered us towards the Amaretto, she was in. Then to the kitchen to the DeLonghi. We sat with our drinks in the chairs by the living room fireplace.

"I watched your press conference with some friends. Your interchange with the one reporter was electrifying. Us three women in Los Angeles watching it were thrilled."

"Do you know the rest of the story about that reporter?"

She shook her head.

"You know about the `concrete story' during the campaign?"

A nod. "I asked that young man to visit me at the Fox Tower the next day. We talked, we both apologized for over going over the top and I hired him."

Huge eyes on Dari.

"He brought that story at its early stages to us, we gave him resources and a good producer... you know the rest."

"Fay, it was a blockbuster story. It really hurt Trump! Badly!"

I was grinning like the Cheshire cat.

"I get it... the troublemaker."

I stuck out my fist... she paused... bump!

I giggled telling her about the 21 Club and Trump not going back after being denied his `fav' table because I was there. She was laughing quite hard as Mari perched on the chair arm.

A smile on her young face, "So you two are getting along? I wasn't sure."

Dari nudged her daughter.

"Mom, how was I to know. You always say celebrities are to be avoided."

Candor of youth catching Dari off-guard.

I laughed, "Funny I think that too."

Mari giggled, "But you are one!"

Dari looked at me, then squeezed Mari's waist, "Fay doesn't think of herself that way. She's not looking to be on your TV screen or sell you something, they go to her because she and Cho make news."

"You're right, we are quite the opposite from attention seekers. There are times when you can't avoid it which why your dad was so great to escort me out to Cho at the golf tournament. I didn't want to go even though Cho wanted me. I got going because of that strong arm offering me a surge of confidence."

"No wonder you and Dad got close."

A fist bump.

My iPhone chirped... Pam was in labour! Oh yes! Ken was with her in the car going to the hospital. They had everything arranged so now the wait for Ken and the work for Pam. I gave them our best wishes!

I went out to the terrace to tell Cho. Smile! A hug and kiss.

We had helped Tha put our Twins down earlier. Such fun. They were good babies. More new life, especially so when the newbie was so wanted.

Ken and Pam were among the initial trustees in a Seattle charity for young mothers, giving them support for pre-natal and post-natal care and into the early years of childhood. Everything from doctors to nappies for those who didn't have the resources. Their project `Healthy Baby' was going to join with our new clinic so more facilities and types of care would be available.

Now it was their turn!

Hugs and kisses for our guests. It had been fun to have a party at the new house. Pedro had been his usual gregarious self. He was great with the Twins. A big hug!

We waved them down the drive.

Cho scooped me up to carry me into our suite... first night here was the reason? Oh who cares I liked being carried by Cho!

Snuggled with Jaidee for a short time, warm cutie then sleep!

The morning news: Abigail had joined the humans! She was a healthy baby looking like Pam according to Ken with a relieved tone in his voice! Pam's labour had been many hours but not horribly difficult, very tiring though. Abby finally decided to emerge to a big welcome! We sent many congratulations down the line.

Dolores was was up working on breakfasts for everyone when we walked in from riding. Sora was here having stayed overnight with her cousin. Lots of smiles.

A great cheese omelet, potatoes and toast! Coffee! I was set for a while. We got packed for a plane trip to Arkansas then on to Bangkok!

I was laughing over a comment from Bennet as we ended the conference call to the New York trio of 21st Century Fox Board members. They were all behind our buying some Red State affiliates. Bennet's quip was about our separate plan to invest in newspapers, a `dying breed.' He said if anyone could breathe life into them it would be us.

So it was unanimous on the buying plan. We begin! Francis was doing evaluations on more than a dozen possibles. Ali was already helping him which I liked. A grin from him!

Captain Kor gave us a heads up on landing at Hot Springs. Gently down on number 5 runway and off at the end to taxi to a spot southwest of the terminal. A stair and miscellaneous bits of equipment were on the perimeter. We rolled to a stop. A team of folks moved the stairs and swarmed around underneath us.

A car slid to a halt and the driver got out. Unfolded more like it, he was tall! Another car came along side of his.

We were ready to go to Oaklawn. A sunny day expected but not hot.

I was in one of the Mirabelle versions of an Edith Head Grace Kelly outfit. The salmon coloured skirt with soft pleats to mid-calf and a sleeveless sweater top in light wool of the same colour with white trim and small white curly-cues all over. Form fitting to my torso, stopping at my hips. A scarf of silk in a slightly lighter shade of salmon. White gloves, heels and bag, gold jewellery and my `Joy' man was available.

Cho liked! I had to reapply my coral lipstick, he had to wash. Fun though!!

We had only fifteen minutes to wait for the Gulfstream from Boston. Candace stepped out in a pale red frock and heels. Very spring-like shade. A hug and an introduction to Cho.

She gave me a nudge, a whisper, `he looks even MORE awesome in person!'

We laughed.

We left the airport, down to the freeway for a few miles to an exit taking us north to the barn area of Oaklawn off Golf Links Road. The guards knew we were coming, no problem.

I told Candace about our pre-race visits.

Monaco smiling at the barn door. Maylene working on a bridle's leather with a bit of straw sticking out of her mouth, a big grin too. All was well with Rando, he was ready to get racing.

Today was the Arkansas Derby, a big prep for the Kentucky Derby. Rando wasn't being aimed for that race though. After the race he'd go to Santa Anita to run there.

Rando making quiet happy noises as we petted him. Maylene said he'd worked hard this week, he was chill now.

Emanuel had ridden twice today already, winning one, a place in the other. Trainers liked him, he had lots of rides. He was in the Jockey Room.

Candace was loving doing this. Smile as her hand stroked Rando's dark flank.

We had a task to do. Oaklawn had golf carts for us for the trip to the grandstand. Upstairs in the Club House there was a gorgeous green marble floor we had to cross to get to the Triple Crown Room, I wanted to stop and admire it but not today.

There was a lot of press waiting and the Oaklawn Racing folks. The room walls had paintings of every Triple Crown winner in oils in a late 19th Century style. One was covered with a curtain.

We gathered beside that one with cameras going off. The Oaklawn Racing management introduced us and gave us a nice welcome. They were very pleased we could be here to unveil the latest portrait.

They asked me to pull the cord... the curtain parted to show Glaa's magnificent self with Mike astride in our colours. Glaa looked every bit the regal fellow he is!

Hands shaken, all recorded by TV and print journalists. Our Fox Sports team of Frank and Elinor right there with other TV folks. We spoke to the press thanking Oaklawn for their beautiful art work and how we were proud our `Big Fast Man' had joined such elite company.

We did questions for a short time, for some answers we directed them to Monaco for when the Arkansas Derby was over.

Cho and I greeted our Fox Sports folks who in turn introduced some local Fox people. The General Manager of the Little Rock Fox station which is a corporate owned one and his senior staff and their local sports person.

The Oaklawn management let us use one side of the room to visit with our crew. Frank and Elinor sitting with us we talked with the local people. They were a nice bunch, looking good and well spoken. Professional.

Pella was the local sports chief, she asked if we were going to run more horses at Oaklawn. Cho said we'd be back next year with some three year olds starting at the Fairgrounds in New Orleans and moving up here after the season opened.

"We have a good crop of colts and fillies but most likely it will be several colts. You should definitely ask Monaco."

We stayed with them for a bit before heading to our box. A hug for Elinor and Frank. Cho and I shaking hands with them all.

PJ and Tara with me, Rande and Ansara beside Cho. Francis and Gil too. Candace looking all around, our arms linked.

We fit into the box above the finish line. A hostess came in to get drinks and snack choices.

There was a race starting then another before Rando's turn. We chilled. Cho got a call from Ken. Everything was all right he wanted to thanks us for the very nice flowers and the bottle of Taittinger's. He'd enjoy the wine, Pam the blossoms. The `kid' was wonderful. His son in Los Angeles was thrilled for his dad and Pam!

The grandkids ready to greet an new member of the clan!

"Pam and Abby are scheduled to go home tomorrow afternoon so I'll let you know."

I leaned over to Gil, "More flowers at their home tomorrow to greet the homecoming." She grinned, a thumbs up!

Monaco texted they were in the paddock saddling. Okay.

We were ready, the seat beside me open for Monaco who soon filled it. All good!

We watched the post-parade, Rando's deep glossy black against Emanuel's white breeches and the yellow and green blocks and stripes of his jacket. They all moved slowly to the left towards the gate.

The Arkansas Derby is a mile and an eighth on this one mile oval. They'd start off to the left and finish below us. Earlier races showed the rail wasn't the fastest part of the track Monaco let us know that's why Emanuel won't close to the rail.

Loaded... CLANG!

They all burst forth running straight ahead, no issues. Rando from the number four slot running level with two slightly behind two more on the outsides. Down the track those five came past us as a group separating from the remaining runners by two or three lengths.

In the turn Rando moved forward switching gears sprinting easily. Emanuel dead still on his back. Onto the back straight Rando kept the tempo fast the others began to drift back as he powered down the dirt. Emanuel kept Rando in the third path out from the rail.

The turn came up with Rando now three and half lengths ahead looking very strong. He galloped round the turn changing leads right to left then back at the top of the stretch. I watched Emanuel as asked Rando.

Our black colt responded with surge of speed! He opened six lengths very quickly and with a hand-ride by Emanuel he gobbled up the track to the finish line rapidly. He roared over the line a black blur.

1:46:00!! Rando set a new track record for the Arkansas Derby!! A nine length margin! We were hopping up and down, huge hugs for Monaco and Cho! Gil grinning holding my hand bouncing on her toes.

Candace was clapping and cheering for our guy!

She took one of my hands, "Fay, this was great! Thanks so much!!"

I said she was welcome to try another time with us. A big nod! Hug!

We calmed down then a Oaklawn official came to lead us down to the Winners Circle. We crossed the track to the green horseshoe as Rando arrived. We shook hands with Emanuel who you could see was really jazzed!

A hug for Rando! He was pretty chill about it.

Cho led him into the green hedged horseshoe, snaps taken. Cho got the bling and check. I stayed back as usual this time with Candace and Gil. Rando and Emanuel off to do their things. We stayed to briefly talk with the Oaklawn folks who'd been very welcoming.

All the race track folks liked our runners. Our horses were good publicity at no cost to them!

We got carts to the barn. The trainer of the horse that `placed' shook Monaco's hand with a smile, "The way your fellow trained he looked very sharp. Too sharp for us."

We wished him good luck at the Kentucky Derby, he just earned enough points to qualify. Rando wasn't going there, he'd fly to California.

We headed to the airport. On the tarmac beside our 767 and Gulfstream was one of the new 767 horse transports. We met the crew. They had a couple of other owner's horses on board. They'd make stops in Lexington and Louisville then on to Ontario International east of Los Angeles. The horses would be vanned to Santa Anita.

We took off right away over the pole to Bangkok! Captain Kor said sixteen and half hours. Ban and Yobi would do dinner in two hours. Tha was preparing the Twins dinner now.

We changed and grabbed some kids! Short book on frogs and tadpoles! English and Thai. It was a big picture book so I held Chani, Charlie on Cho's lap and we shared the reading. Charlie liked the pictures, he kept pointing to a bullfrog sitting on a rock.

Candace sat on the carpeted deck with us. She read some of the book in English. The Twins watched her carefully during her reading. She asked me why later.

"They always pay attention to the voice and the words even though the words don't mean much yet. It's like they are storing it all up."

She understood. We sat there with the Twins for a while talking. Cho and Tha took Chani and Charlie to eat, Cho returned with a sherry for us.

Candace grinning after a sip, "Very nice!"

We sat on a sofa to chat about each other.

She had been an academic her whole adult life. Born and raised in Massachusetts, a professor at M.I.T. for nine years ever since she got her PHD from there. Lecturing, researching, writing about computer security in practical and theoretical terms.

She had helped develop several malware defense schemes which have been incorporated into commercial applications and operating systems.

Candace smiled, "Good royalties!!" Then she shrugged.

I laughed, "Don't be modest! I have your book on corporate security AND I read it cover to cover. We've used it and Bruce Schneier's work as part of the ground level planning for The Company and our own Security. Kora has a well-thumbed copy of `Security: Inside and Out' on her bookshelf!"

Candace smiling, "Well... thanks... at least two copies are used."

I gave her a mock arm punch, "Phooey!"

"Writing that first one was both easy and hard. The ones that followed were easier to get out of my head after the first."

"You should be happy. They're some of the top selling computer books of all time!"

A smile, another shrug. Ban did a sherry re-up. We kept talking about all sorts, getting to know each other more.

Candace grinned, "You don't need to tell me too much about you since you are probably the most written about woman right now. Heaven knows how much of it all is true. Every magazine rack has your face. Have you seen some of the new clothes coming out are very much like yours"

I laughed, "Have they caught on to my `Grace Kelly' period?"

"No but the gown you wore at the Inaugural balls has been copied. Also your thigh high dresses! Gawd... what will they try to do with what you had on today?"

"Edith Head's the originator! I'll be happy to give her all the credit!"

"Well you`re a trendsetter now."

I shrugged this time, "I'm as they say `doing my thing' just the way I want."

We had a good laugh!

Cho's warm body on my back, "So you two did some bonding? How was it? She seemed relaxed."

He gently petted me as I gave a `report' on Candace. I liked her a lot.

Unmarried, no significant other, she was an `only,' little family left, enjoys travel especially in Europe, other places for work or lecturing. She owns a nice house in Cambridgeport, three floors, a big private garden, snow blower?

Candace laughed, "I learned how to operate it! You need one where I live."

"I've a lot of room which I really like, my neighbors are Okay, really good shopping and several excellent restaurants a short walk away. I'm comfortable."

I had a grin on my face which Candace looked at and then lifted her hands to cross two fingers like an `X'...

"You're one of `them' aren't you... trouble."

We laughed! She said she could go with a small dash of trouble `as long as it kept within bounds' but her face gave away it away.

"I guess you're not the small amount of trouble type... Are you?"

I shook my head no. We laughed some more.

Cho's fingers finding a few sensitive places showing he knew how to make trouble too. I was giggling. We kissed, petting a bit before lights out.

Morning over southern China. I had coffee and a big pile of scrambled eggs and toast with lots of strawberry preserves! Cho's smile was sweeter!

Email from Monaco, Aneka had won the Kona Gold Stakes at Santa Anita! She wired the field to win by nine and half lengths. It was her last warm-up before the Kentucky Oaks. She was in prime shape! Aneka would stay in California until a week or so before the race.

Candace came out looking happy, "That's a nice bed!"

Fist bump!

"So the pea underneath the mattress didn't bother you?"

She really laughed at that, "NO! I'm definitely not a princess."

"Okay. It was a test `they' asked me to do it on you."

I amended the `they' to... semi... sotto voce... behind my raised hand... "Colossus and Guardian!"

We were laughing!

We flared for landing on the dock helipad, I was pointing out the house parts to Candace. Amporn, Niran, Achara and Intira on the Terrace was the welcoming committee.

Intira was full time with us. Nice smile in a sweet face. I asked her to help Candace get settled.

I had my arm around Amporn, smiles. She told me in English that everything was ready for tonight's dinner with friends. Yes! Fist bump!

I called out to Candace's disappearing back... Pool! She swung around with a `no swimsuit' sad face. I said we had some for guests. In the big closet I pulled out a drawer of bikinis, a black string one.

"Fay, I'm a bit past it for teeny tiny bikinis. Don't you have something a one-piece?"

I put the small bits of cloth in her hand, "Try it!"

I got rolled eyes! `Trouble' spoken!

I changed to a tiny black one myself. I knocked on Candace's door. She called to come in... she was at the big mirror looking unhappy but... she looked great. Yes, no `narrow wasp waist' otherwise shapely!! A look millions would envy!

All I said was we need to give it the Cho test. I got a blank stare...

"Come on."

I had her hand as we walked out towards the pool, Cho was talking with Niran on the Terrace. They both smiled at us. Cho extended his hand, lifting her's for a kiss. Then he raised her arm so Candace would turn around.

"Very nice!"

There was a bit of blushing so I tugged her into a run and JUMP! We came up next to each other, grins.

"See you passed the Cho test! Don't worry you'll get your chance to reply."

We swam a bit before Cho appeared in a yellow Speedo. There was a small gasp from Candace. I was smiling, "See!"

She watched Cho do a nice dive in to join us. Her head swiveled, big eyes.

Laughing I said `all mine!' We laughed climbing out.

"Oh Fay, Cho's so handsome! Lucky girl!"

Cho did laps as we lay out. Lassi's from Niran, pineapple!

I gave her the plan for today and the trip to our Security HQ tomorrow.

"The folk coming over tonight will include Kora, Ni and her fiancé!"

She looked forward to it. Achara brought out lunch. My paper work done, we three were joined by Francis and Gil after their swim.

Gil had some things for later.

Francis told us Ali and he wanted to be married after the Belmont in the Harcourt House Garden. Okay. He would let Carter know. That fine fellow's organizing skills were up to the challenge. I got Gil to pass on Cassandra's contact info, every bit of help is good.

Cho leaned over to say we would pay for everything, so just go ahead. Francis' smile was terrific! Fist bumps, I got a hug.

Daria had promised to be there as the Maid of Honour!!!! Ali asked me to be a `maid' too! Francis asked Cho to be his Best Man which was a 'deal' closed with a handshake!

Black cuffed short shorts, red cut-off Polo shirt, silver bits and Guess black sandals. `Joy'

I had Candace with me greeting guests so she could be introduced. Ni and Kavnu came early to meet her. I hugged the boys, they took off with Jaidee, a tennis ball in his mouth.

Kavnu and I chatted about the Railroad and our software. He was still jazzed about how it was improving their system's operations and paying for itself!

"From my new perch I can really see how the software has made us more efficient! When you were doing the first steps I didn't have a clue. We still find new ways to dig out data."

Fist bumps!

I got Candace back when the others started to arrive. Lawan and Thang, Reyna and Thet, Anong and Rak. Rak2 looking more like his dad except for a more finely drawn face he got from his beautiful mom.

Kora in a lovely orange dress, soft colour and clingy to her slender body. Candace was delighted to meet her! I said to go to the food and bar, I sent them off.

I got a Newcastle and a Cho. We snuggled in a chair beside Lawan and Thang. Smiles! I wanted them to come to Harcourt House then to Chawton for a book release get together for the Thai translation of `Pride and Prejudice.' They'd be happy to come!

I leaned back on Cho, "Maybe the whole Crew? They've seen Harcourt House in winter..."

A kiss! Lawan clapping!! Okay!

I asked Gil to get with everyone and Kavat to do some planning for when we'd be there. They could go to London again to sight-see in good summer weather.

Dinner was a delicious spread by Amporn!! We had a fun time! All my best girls and new folks mixing nicely. Kora and Candace sitting together talking for a long time.

My morning started with a text from Dolly Warburton `I'm NOT crackers!'

I knew what she meant and called out to Cho who was getting out of the pool. He was happy for them. I texted back our congratulations.

`Wally's astounded and thrilled!!' with several explosions. Dolly added if we still had space they'd love to go to the Preakness with us.

I fired back a big `thumbs up' and another text saying Gil would be in touch. A kiss came back!

Cho's grin was broad when I said Wally would be a good dad because he loves horses.

"Anyone who loves horses is Okay by you."

We laughed, I also got a kiss! Cho went to cleanup then off to meetings at his Railroad office.

Candace got the gist of it with a bit of explanation. She was feeling fine about the black bikini now laying out in the hot morning sun after swimming with me and Gil.

Cho texted from the car, Ken had called to say they were on the way home. Little Abigail had a beautiful room, a nurse and two very happy parents!

We got ourselves dressed for going to the Security HQ. I was in a white linen short sleeve dress, mid-thigh with an A-Line shape. A narrow black belt, black accessories and shoes. My black onyx jewellery, `Joy' and the round red sunglasses.

The Captain smiling as we boarded the smaller yacht with Gil, PJ and Ken. Tessa and Tara with Ansara and Ro along to visit with their friends at HQ. We turned downstream for the short trip to the new HQ building.

I pointed out some landmarks I knew to Candace, she would get a palace tour from Penny and me.

Thet and Sumate was on the dock with Kora and Savve to welcome us. They were all smiling faces!

Introductions done we went in to do a tour of the building. Candace was WOW'd.

The whole structure was built to the highest possible existing standards with change and growth allowed for. The building's defenses were elaborate from doors to networks to satellite dishes. Redundant systems, shielding, defensive software and active sweeping, a pair of anti-drone of units on the roof. Plus the staff was very expert with the tools and kept alert by testing and training.

Kora was conducting the tour, Thet beside me with an interesting smile. I nudged him.

He grinned wider, leaning closer, "Kora used to hate dealing with people. She didn't like to give talks or meet new folks."

I made a `come on' gesture.

"It was Sumate. He moved her forward with a simple appeal to her professionalism. He told her it was part of her job and she owed it to others to share her knowledge."

I put my arm over his shoulders, a kiss on his cheek.

"Well... he didn't just shove her out but gave her some opportunities to expand into slowly."

Thet laughed, "Now she can be quite the chatterbox."

I dug into his ribs with an elbow, "Don't say that."

We both laughed drawing the others attention. Thet waved Kora onward, we kept the smiles on.

At the doorway to the server room Kora paused, "There is noise but in a smooth way almost like a temple where there is a lot of out loud prayers being said."

I thought that quite apt.

I liked looking in here, the big room humming along doing so many tasks at once. Just blinking lights to show for all the work. I grinned towards Kora, a laugh from her. She got it! Hug!

After the tour we sat in a conference room to have a chat. I had asked Kora to brief Candace on the Cho-Fay Air intrusions. She started by saying that Theodore's NSA folks had taken control so our people were out of it.

Kora gave Candace the whole story about both attacks. Our responses and the NSA's involvement. Kora asked me last night about the NSA part. I told her Candace was vetted by the White House to be on the TAG with others and she'd done work for the government in the past.

I said I wouldn't be surprised if Candace knew plenty of CIA, FBI and NSA folks.

As Kora spun out the penetration of the Belorussian KGB server and my approval of it, I got a look from Candace. `Intrigued' would describe it.

When Kora told the tale of the various intrusions her team had done I saw Candace's eyebrows go up. She laughed heartily at the russian FSB email server being compromised and downloaded.

I let it be known that Dad's computer team had sent a copy to the NSA. Candace burst out laughing!

"Well, I know a few folks there. They'll be happy snooping around in FSB email."

"They are. I got a message about it. As usual no detail but it had proved to be a gold mine."

Candace's smile, "If they say it like that it means they hit the big jackpot!"

Fist bumps!

We talked security and the limits imposed by businesses and governments. Candace got that our Security would do its upmost to protect our people and assets. Sumate gave her a rundown on how we were expanding in America, protecting friend's properties, private and business and doing some limited bodyguard work.

The management at Santa Anita Park signed a deal with us to protect the entire complex with electronics and merge their existing security force into ours. We had a program to retrain their people to our standards and teach them about our suite of software and hardware tools. Their security manager would become our employee running the new enterprise with Felipe being his deputy.

The race track management seemed very pleased and the staff was already being evaluated. The manager was to be here in Bangkok in ten days to start his training.

The building next door to the Colorado Place apartments had been purchased and undergoing rehabilitation. The main security control room would be there until a new building was constructed in space adjacent of the parking area east of the Park Grandstand. Half of the new Colorado Place property would be new housing for staff in bedsit style with a kitchen and lounge. The city of Arcadia had signed off on the change in use and the buildings physical alterations.

Candace was enjoying hearing about us and all that was going on. Savve gave her a detailed briefing about our drone defense equipment. She got to sit at a console as a drone was flown into our `zone.'

She got an up close look at how it acquired the intruder and overrode it's control signal. New software to send a set of new command signals allowed our operator to fly the drone to a landing site where it was disabled.

Candace turned to me, "You have this at your houses?"

"Just at Harcourt House right now since it has such high visibility. Our other homes aren't widely known yet. The one at Harcourt House has been quite successful in adding to our lawsuit against the News UK corporation, they own the Sun newspaper."

I sat beside her, "The new drones we designed and built have been awesome. Long range, a suite of tools onboard for any weather or time of day and easy to fly."

I told her about Shelby following the drunk russian and blowing her whistle scaring the hell out of him! Kora said `hold on' we have the video here, we use it for training.

In a few minutes we were watching from Shelby's point of view as she moved up behind the russian then the shriek of her metal whistle. It was hilarious to watch him jump and almost fall on his face. When he turned towards the drone Colleen and Ramsay pounced.

It did have a sort of Charlie Chaplin quality if it wasn't for the 9mm handgun he tried to pull out of his jacket. Seeing him lying there tied up babbling in russian...

We saw how the drone dipped a bit as Shelby was laughing.

The catch of the Christmas bandit miles away with drone hovering above the road capturing the Thames Valley police arresting the fellow was great!

I leaned over, "You should come over the Pond to see us at home there."

She was excited by that, "I'd love to. I haven't been in England for quite a few years."

"Come over to us and we'll go up to London for a day or two. June?"

Candace said YES!

Fist bumps!

Food! That was me as usual. We took all the Security top brass and our team down river to a floating restaurant just north of the Wat Rakhang Library. Taksan River Boat served traditional Thai cuisine, lovely red chile prawns, green curry soup, roti, rice and veggies! I enjoyed myself!!

Back on the yacht we went a bit further downstream so I could point out the huge palace complex we'd go to tomorrow. Then home after dropping the Security folks.

Candace sat beside me at the railroad layout. I put an engineer's hat on her as I explained the controls. She was off running a goods train!

I stuck some little people in the downtown area; mom's with strollers, dogs being walked, a person delivering the mail, a bike rider. I gave the sidewalks a lot of activity and colour.

Cars, a Fed-Ex truck, panel vans, Mercedes and Fords, pickup trucks and estate wagons. SUV's and a Mini. It was great fun.

Candace giggling over her train when I showed her how to get it into the railyard and onto a siding beside a factory.

High fives!

We were hard at when the Twins came out from their nap! Warm cuddlers! Tha brought a book about dogs, we sat on the little terrace to read. Nice pictures of different breeds. When a brown Labrador came up there were two loud `Jabee's!!!'

Candace laughed with me, Tha looking over from a chair, hand over her mouth! Smart babies!

Cho came home right after so I went back to the picture and more `Jabee's' popped out. He was thrilled, on one knee hugging and kissing the Twins!!

Cho changed to shorts and huddled with Achara and Amporn on the food for tonight! It would be Cho kebabs cooked by him and Achara. She would be brought into the `Secret Sauce Society' today. No writing it down! Even I wasn't in that small elite group.

I needed to make some sort of medallion for the `Secret Sauce Society!'

In shorts myself greeting guests with Candace. Phailin and Dad with Kanda and Thoi were first!

Udorn and Ubon, cute little Mali Fay!! Amedee and Kon. Dr. Sanporam came with a date, pretty petite blonde named Polly. She was an American living in Bangkok now.

Mr. Nu was all smiles when I greeted him. I waved to Intira to bring out a wrapped box for him. He was surprised by the embroidered Nu-Fay handkerchiefs. He gave me a nice hug and thank you. More smiles.

Our other guests had just flown in on a Cho-Fay flight from Dulles. Gerald and Antonio!! Hugs and kisses for them. They were told in advance we were having a party. The flight was good rest time so they were ready to go!

I had one on each side of me going around doing introductions.

I got Kon's attention, he was going to Washington for a meeting of justice officials and I wanted him to go to Le Champignon d'Or while he was there.

Candace said she was to be in D.C. in a month to lecture at Georgetown University... so I got her together with them.

Gerald hugging me, "Are we paying you a PR fee?"

"Yes, you won't let us pay for our dinners... so YES!"

We laughed and hugged! Antonio's grin, "Well you have been generous to the staff so they look forward to your visits."

Laughing I said they were all so good I had to.

Before Cho's kebabs were ready I looped my arm through Dad's and turned us into the Garden. I giggled telling him about Theodore's call when he got the hard drive. I let him know the NSA had built a server to import the email and were reading all.

"They are mining right down to last bit. Apparently it has been quite the store of important material."

He was smiling, "We have read it all too. There was so much valuable info for several of our other allies that we shared at the highest level. Without going too far... there will be arrests and heads will roll. This was a huge coup by your folks."

We sat on the bench where he and Phailin asked me to be their daughter. I gave him the story of the New York penetrations of the GRU office and how wide ranging that had become and I had been thanked in person by the head of NSA's Counter Intelligence division.

I took a deep breath and let him in on the Yevgeny defection via one of our aircraft. His arm over my shoulder squeezed me tight.

"Fay, you really have some reach now! You are growing into the role of a world-wide personality. Siri is keeping an informal scrapbook for me on your doings."

Hugs and cheek kiss. I followed on with what Yoshi and Arturo were doing now and how our contacts in government had resulted in the rounding up of weapons in northern Malaysia.

"We had intel on those weapons cache captures. We knew it started in Kuala Lumpur with pressure on the police forces in the north. So Washington and London!"

He stroked his chin.

I leaned against his shoulder, "Our feeling is that a push like this could get the separatists off the dime to talk to each other and formulate one negotiating strategy. Our people have told them the obvious... that the government won't talk to multiple voices. Hopefully this encourages them. Yoshi and Arturo will be here in a week before going back to New York."

We headed to the food after a hug and kiss.

"You and Cho are an awesome team!"

I almost had to ask for a Keren-Fay handkerchief. He squeezed my waist with a big grin!

Gil waved to me, Jian, Andrea, Ting and Caroline where airborne and would be here on schedule in the morning. Yes!

I got to talk to Polly. She had been a patient of Dr. Sanporam's, she fell in love with Bangkok and Thailand. When she was one hundred percent he found her a job at friend's import business. They started seeing each other about six months ago.

"He is a nice man, polite, attentive and generous with his time..." Polly smiled, "He asked me to move in two nights ago. I'm thinking I will."

I hugged her, "All my friends love him! Me too! He was marvelous in doing our changes."

"Fay, he talks about how wonderful you were with your friends, visiting, supporting them and paying! That was awesome!"

We chatted some about our nuts and bolts, she was nice, quiet and quite pretty. I said we should connect when we are back in the city.

Cho and I on a lounge, next to us was Candace, Gerald and Antonio together opposite. Francis and Gil sitting on our other side. We were chillin'! The party had been lovely, not elaborate just casual.

We were ready for our morning swim, time for hugs when the helicopter dropped its load of humans. Jian in my arms! Cho and Ting hugging. Andrea's arms around Us. Kisses. I scooped up Caroline. Big smiles!

We got in some laps before breakfast then we all went separate ways. Candace and I to see Ni and her team to start then on to the Palace. Ken, Tessa and Penny came with me today, she's my expert tour guide. Tessa and Ken to get more acquainted with Bangkok.

Cho and Gerald were joined by Rak and Thoi to fly out to the Thai Country Club for some golf. Jian was taking Andrea and Antonio for some sightseeing around town. Ting was going to the hospital to see colleagues.

On the drive to Ni's I gave Candace a brief overview of how the Apple Enterprise system worked and how Ni had added so much for us to use and the linking with the Conference App from Greg's team.

Ni's hug was tight! Candace was welcomed in a big way. We got coffee and parked in a conference room with Ni's top folks. We talked apps, Stingray's, drones, sensors and more. Candace asking questions, Ni's people giving answers!

I could see as I leaned back that Candace was enjoying this. I winked towards Ni, a grin!

A staffer brought in a cart with fresh coffee and treats! Ni and I hip bumped, smiling. Candace talking with Winnie who would be going to Los Angeles to run Ni's new office there.

Winnie was from the Bay Area and had family in Los Angeles. She was a self-starter, good manager of projects, she wrote top-notch code!

We had just bought new property in Venice for a various bits of business. An old gas station for our car service, there would be a maintenance shop and parking area. An office and lounge for staff.

A motel almost next door off South Venice Boulevard was for local staff, it was a two floor `U' shape with a pool in the center. There are sixty rooms which we would re-model, joining some adjacent rooms into bigger apartments with kitchenettes and sitting rooms, giving those two bedrooms.

It had two good sized meeting rooms, one to be a daycare, the other a staff lounge where we could hold group get togethers or social events like showing movies and such.

The restaurant we would keep going separately since it was a standalone building. It was a coffee shop making breakfast, lunch and dinners in a home-cooking format. It was making money so... why not!

The most recent addition was an office building on the Speedway a block from the beach, four floors, parking underneath accessed from the alley. It was in excellent shape for being fifty five years old.

Ni was taking the top two floors, our Security would move its recruiting office into the ground floor. We might find some use for the first floor or hold it in reserve.

We walked across the road to a restaurant that had a courtyard sitting space with a big koi pond. Looking down into the water there were several large structures like temples the koi could go in and out or hide in mixed in the plants. The shining fish dancing around, darting through their sunlight space.

We had a nice lunch, yakking away about all sorts.

Afterwards back at Ni's, Candace and Ni close together... Candace was willing to join with Ni in several projects to enhance our Apps security and make policy.

As they talked I got a call and excused myself.

Cho's voice always welcome... his news also very welcome! We had the property north of Chalgrove!! Awesome. It was a bit over one square mile in a soft rhomboid shape of farmland and woods with several streams and ponds. Bids for some adjacent land in but nothing on them yet.

We were going to build EFT there. Equine Farm and Training Ground was to be a dual purpose entity. We would give retired racers or rescued horses a home for the rest of their lives. A portion of the property would be for re-training racing horses to be riding horses or for equestrian eventing giving them a chance for a future full life. We would also try to get them adopted to new good owners.

Cormac from Gregory's staff was to operate it for us. He was to be under Gregory at first so we could easily share staff and equipment for a fast start up! Later it would become its own self and Cormac would report to Carter and Carter2.

We had the land, so construction of barns and stables would begin immediately. We wanted to be open by June to accept horses and have all buildings up by autumn ready for winter. A large part of what was being farmed would eventually be turned to grass, we'd keep some acreage for carrots and other vegetables. Paddock fencing would be installed to create small and large areas of mixed grass and woods so the horses could wander about freely.

A fully equipped satellite office for Drs. Crawford would be built with its own stables.

Housing for staff, a kitchen and dual use room for eating and relaxing attached to the office building.

Our Security would also have their own office to monitor the perimeter and be connected to the fire alarum systems. They would part of Yone's staff rotated back and forth.

I gave my giver of good news a hug when we got back to the house. His grin was huge, "I set a new record score at the club today... a 61!"

Wow! He got a kiss from me!

Gerald shaking his head, "Miss Martin, he is unbelievable! Every shot... superb!"

Thoi smiling, "Cho was hitting them today!"

I hugged Rak, "Well we all played well but Cho..." he poked Cho's arm, "... this guy is too much!"

That was easy to accept since I already thought so!

Gerald and Antonio boarded a helicopter to Don Mueang for their flight to Phuket. They'd have a few days of sun to share. We'd be gone when they came back to Bangkok.

Cho gave them the name of the waterfront restaurant in Phuket for a dinner idea.

Arturo and Yoshi came over to ours. Intira got them Newcastle's and snacks. The four of us chatted in the sun.

Yoshi did meet with the man he'd missed the first trip. His group was more political than military. They tried to organize the local people into passive resistance and spying on the Thai Army.

He was very receptive but pointed out the gaps between the different Muslim factions. His was ready to compromise on some things to get united front.

Yoshi said the fellow had some `crocodile' tears for the other factions losing their weapons caches in Malaysia. His group did nothing near the border expecting the Army to be very active there.

Yoshi setup another messaging account for that fellow to use.

The first man from Yoshi's Yala university meeting brought another member of his group. They talked seriously about negotiating with their fellow separatists to go as a single front to meet with the Thai government. These men were the least doctrinaire and most flexible.

They were a heavily militarily oriented resistance active against the Army but willing to talk. They had lost a few arms dumps across the border.

Yoshi's second man, the hardcase,' met him in the rear of a restaurant with another fellow. He had discussed with his commander and associates what Yoshi had brought to him. The new fellow like hardcase' wanted to know more about the backers but Yoshi told them the same information as before and pointed out it was too early for more than that.

These fellow asked Yoshi what he knew about the weapons dumps that were captured inside Malaysia.

Yoshi said he'd heard of the raids and that weapons had been seized but he didn't know which groups had suffered the losses. Apparently this group had been badly hit. They complained a lot to him.

Yoshi told them he hadn't been to Malaysia and offered to show them the visas and entry/exit stamps in his passport. They weren't angry with him fortunately but they were obviously unsettled.

Yoshi pointed out if the Malaysian government was taking an interest it might be from pressure from Bangkok finally winning out. He said Bangkok has been after Malaysia to act for years.

The group left it as they would have their leadership discuss meeting with other separatists if an agenda can be worked out.

Yoshi was pleased with this trip. He had met more of the men involved, taken in their softening to meeting with the other factions. Some were obviously feeling the need to respond to the pressure across the border.

Arturo started with meeting Muslim religious leaders in Kuala Terengganu again. They had heard from the border areas about the weapon seizures and their people were very upset. They did make a point that no blame was placed on Arturo as they had information from someone in Kuala Lumpur the Malaysian police had started it.

"That means they have some sort of info conduit from Malaysian sources. We need to be even more careful if there is a leak there, we can't know who or where they are placed," Cho leaning forward to emphasize to Arturo being more safety conscious.

A thumbs up from him!

"When I reached the meeting place in Kota Bharu I was given a piece of paper by a woman in the bookstore in the KB Mall. I followed the instructions and met another vehicle in a gas station a mile away. I got a companion and we drove to an automotive repair building where we drove inside and the door was closed behind us.

The same two men from my first meeting and three more. We sat with tea and talked. They were unhappy about the police raids but were more sanguine it about seeing it as the cost of doing their work.

Arturo laughed, "One said in English `shit happens.' He also said the Malaysians hadn't tried to run around arresting people which meant to them it was a message from them to scale it back or..."

I grinned, "That tells me... " my hand on my chest, "... that group is more dialed-in and we need to develop the relationship with them."

Arturo nodding, "Yes! They seem sophisticated, worldly but still fighters. Their reputation in Kuala Lumpur is that of a hard core guerilla group, effective in killing Thai soldiers, setting off targeted bombings and having good intel."

Cho's hand up, "Where did good `intel' come from?"

"A Malaysian government official. He's supposed to be in forestry but he's probably some sort of spook."

"A double agent?"

Arturo couldn't say but if the intimation of a `source' in the Malaya government is true... then this fellow might be it.

I got his name and supposed government `cover' position. I told Yoshi and Arturo I would ask my contacts in the US and UK governments if they had anything on him.

Cho congratulated them, "Good work! You don't seem to feel you've been threatened...?"

No! They said while it has a decidedly clandestine atmosphere that was expected, no weapons were displayed and the men were cautious but not unpleasant.

They both thought it had been on the `up and up' and wanted to continue. They also had their cover assignments and would file stories in New York. Yoshi had a camera crew for a few days working on his story so video was sent to Fox News.

Arturo had already sent video and some copy to New York.

Hugs and handshakes. They would fly out tonight and tomorrow on different flights.

They left in separate cars.

Cho gave me a good squeeze, "Nothing dramatic, progress."

Kissing!

Anong and Rak2 arrived with Kanda. All the others came home and we had a lively dinner then...

We got Dressed Up! It was party time at the Ice Rink for our soon to be married couples. We all drove over to meet them.

We did 50's costume theme! Everyone was ready to try it!

I was a Bobby-Soxer! Blue jeans rolled up, saddle Oxford shoes with white socks! I added a tight pink sweater (jumper) with a gray poodle on my left breast! A wad of bubble-gum in my mouth when we got to the dance floor!

I had a big cat skirt in baby blue with a matching sleeveless top and cardigan for Candace. She loved it.

50's and 60's tunes and disco! I was dancing with Cho right away. He was in jeans and loafers, a t-shirt with rolled up sleeves! Hair slicked back!

We swung around the dance floor doing what we thought were the steps from times! Who knows? The Hand Jive, the Twist and I got everyone together to do a `stroll.'

Cho and I showed them the steps for the dancers in the two lines waiting their turn and a couple of possible choices to try as they went down the `stroll' alley. Girls and guys separated and we gave it a try.

Cho and I went first. We `strolled' with his arm around me, my hands moving in waves then we slid apart to catch hands and swing around into a smooth two-step to the music. Separated holding hands we came back to bump hips and swinging around.

Not professional' but fun. Jian and Ting went next... they were great with a walking two-step, Ting getting Jian to twirl! Everyone strolled' it was terrific! Smiling faces, cute outfits, lively feet!

I was doing `the Twist' with all the brides to be in a circle! We were swiveling our hips and laughing! We danced the night away!

At the end we hugged and kissed each couple. They were a happy crowd. In the morning they'd get on the Shan Car to ride up on the railroad to Korat then a drive over to the Forest Palace to stay over tomorrow night. The joint weddings in the morning the day after that.

We would fly up tomorrow, stay over and fly back after the ceremony.

We said goodbye to Candace. We got loads of thanks for the horseracing, the trip, the Security briefings and meeting all our friends. Especially Ni and Kora who she would work with on several projects!

Hugs and waves as the helicopter lifted her to Don Mueang for a Cho-Fay Air flight to Boston.

I was in the pool floating as Cho dove in roiling my quiet water. He came up under me to wrap around my bod. Kiss.

We had a quiet day of fun with the Twins and work. And trains! Charlie in my lap as I ran several trains around the layout. I had an old fashioned steam engine with 19Th Century Pullman cars going and a modern diesel engine pulling a collection of miscellaneous goods cars.

Charlie clapping as the steam engine puffed smoke racing by! Cho laughing saying he'd be a railroad man for sure.

Good news from London! Erin, our estate agent in the city, had scored big for us! We finished the purchase of two locations for LGBTQ Youth Shelters in the city! One on Stanhope Street east of Regents Park and the other on Dean Street in SOHO. She was still looking in Vauxhall for a south of the Thames location.

Both properties were four floor flat blocks with ground floor space for offices and Security. Each would have an flat for a live-in manager. A kitchen and a dining hall that would double as a meeting room for each.

They were in areas where the LGBTQ community was well represented with deep roots.

Tony from The Company was going to run them for us. His transition from female to male had gone well, he was comfortable as himself! He was ready to go when we talked!

The construction company that had just finished the remodel of the Bramham Gardens block of flats was to re-do both buildings. They estimated about thirty to forty days at each location so a first week of June opening was looking good.

Tony was living in our Maida Vale building with his partner so it wouldn't be far to either location. He would supervise the re-model and start hiring staff. Andrea's folks were going assist with the hiring and we would do it as a charitable gift to the non-profit Housing for Teens' or HOT' which was the group we setup for the United Kingdom under the Chanthira Foundation.

Tony would get a leg up for finding the multiple suppliers he'd need for linens, bedding, miscellaneous furniture and so on. Food vendors and janitorial help would be the same as The Company used for the Notting Hill offices. So they were known but Tony would have to evaluate them as they did their work.

Given the uneven NHS service we were building a small clinic in one the shelters for basic health care. I suggested we have medical staff move between the sites with established office hours at each. Cho had given me a thumbs up for that.

Earlier we had sent Jian, Ting, Andrea and Caroline off to the train with cheers and kisses!

I had a talk with Jasmin, she was about to start a long trip.

She would be traveling in Japan and Taiwan, then Australia and New Zealand to look at a mix of water and rail projects that had work done in the two years. She got a big file from me via Gil on each individual venture with notes about the local people I had dealt with and where I stayed and ate.

She wrote that it was an incredible document, so full information and tidbits! The personal comments about the local individuals were very welcome.

Chao and Millie were going to put her in a bedroom at theirs and feed her! My thanks to them!

We gathered our wedding duds, the Twins and all the usual suspects on the dock for a pickup. The helicopter turned up river going towards Don Mueang then a hard turn to starboard and the speed went way up. East by north we were really soaring. Thirty minutes later we flared for landing.

Our staff with Alia were there to welcome us. The staff loved the Twins! Tha got them settled to eat lunch, while Gil and I sat for some work. Francis on his phone. Cho smiling from behind his MacBook... I wonder what that meant. He'd tell me.

The Crew and their guys arrived to a loud greeting from us.

We helped them settle in. Ni, Kavnu, Lawan and Thang in the West Tower with Reyna and Thet. Jian, Ting, Andrea and Caroline in the East tower with us.

We had an outdoor dinner then some dancing and fun downstairs. Kisses for everyone to close out the night!

The morning sun warming me outside as the coffee did the inside. I was looking around from the tower top holding Cho's hand.

"Dear one, should we plan some big `thing' for our anniversary?"

I said while squeezing his hand that I had him which was celebration enough for me.

That got me a hug and half!!

Cho and I dressed in white met the monks at the front door. We thanked them for coming to celebrate our friends weddings and escorted them to the canopied sitting area behind the golden Buddha altar. They were smiling, pleased saying it had been a comfortable space last year.

The senior monk holding my hand as we conversed in Pali. He was amazed and I could see the pleasure of knowing it was his prayers last year which had me learn Pali.

He kissed my forehead giving me a blessing as the other monks gathered close. Cho and I thanked each individually.

The guests had already begun to be shuttled in from the little train station in Sikhio. Loads of cousins, aunts and uncles, friends and work colleagues all nicely dressed showing many colours. Our staff gave each a pin with a swatch of the striped fabric with each of the four twosomes' colours.

They took their places in the garden and up the walkway, a nice crowd.

Udorn and Ubon at the front, Ting's mother and father holding Caroline, Kamol and Sarge in his dress blue uniform, many of Ni's staff and Lawan's aunts, Reyna's cousins and lots of the Security folks lead by Sumate, Savve and Kora!

Upstairs the bridegrooms were in the West Tower, the brides with me, Gil and Andrea in our suite. We helped them dress. Like us they had sleeveless white tops showing some tummy over white skirts to their ankles, bare feet. We put on their scarves,

Jian was red, Lawan in pink, Ni was navy and Reyna orange. The three of us went into the dressing room... we each put on a scarf that was stripes of red, pink, navy and orange. They wrapped around our waists then up over the right shoulder to fall down into a train like our friends scarves. Holding hands we emerged... our brides smeared some mascara with tears. HUGS!

Makeup repairs!

Their veils were draped over their heads. Each veil had small ribbon at the back matching their colour. Beautiful ladies!

At the top of the stairs, PJ, Ken, Rande and Ro took their arms to lead them down to the central hallway for the walk out. I walked in front and the brides followed.

By the altar their men waited looking up as Cho had done. The men in white jackets and calf length trousers, their lady's colour scarf over their shoulder. Cho behind them with a striped scarf like mine.

In the front row of seats Tha stood in white with a striped scarf beside Chani and Chati's seats. Our Twins in white with striped scarves.

I heard Jian make a gasping noise when she saw them and Caroline dressed the same.

As they came to their men Cho took each one to their bridegroom bringing the hands together. When they all had kneeled the monks took their places. I went along with Andrea and Gil to lift the veils up and away.

Cho and I knelt in the center behind our friends.

The ceremony was the same as ours adding some time as it was for four couples so some portions had to be repeated. The prayers were lovely, I was so glad I could understand them as they were spoken.

After the last blessing Gil and Andrea helped me pass along the gifts from each pair to the monks. Each was accepted with humility and a blessing prayer.

When the monks withdrew the couples stood to hug and kiss. I started the cheers!

Everyone followed. It was rousing! Cho and I kissed and hugged each of them, they in turn did the same for each other. They moved towards their families and friends.

Tha and I took the Twins up to the terrace, Cho and Francis with Gil behind us.

The caterers were ready with the Taittinger's! The couples came up, taking a glass, Cho stood on a chair. His voice loud and clear to carry to everyone.

"To all here... this is a wonderful day! Our friends are joined together in love. They have our love... Cho extended his hand to me, Francis helped me up on an adjacent chair... hands joined... "our love forever! We have been given many gifts of love in the last year so we wish they too will have the same..." Cho leaned to kiss me..."we know they have beauty... and brains so look out for them to make their mark on the world! Cheers to them!"

Huzza Huzza Huzza We drank the toast! Ting stepped close to offer his hand for me... right to a hug! Then my buddy!

Softly in my ear, "Thank you Fay! For being my friend!"

I returned an `I love you!'

We kissed and hugged each couple. Such fun!

I managed a refill, I had Cho's hand, I tugged him aside.

Kiss! We drank a toast to our future.

We got introductions to many people, so many smiling faces. It was heart-warming to see all these nice people celebrating the marriages of eight special people.

We stayed for a while then goodbyes for our friends and family. We changed to travel clothes, gathered our bunch and boarded the AW-139. Lots of waves, we left behind kisses, lots!

On the tarmac at Don Mueang we got to say hi to Penn and Kavat. Mira at the controls gave us the heads-up on taxiing. All buckled up, Jaidee looking cute in his seat. The power applied and we were off to Angola.

Twelve hours to Luanda.

We were watching Jaidee and the Twins! What a show! They were crawling towards Jaidee as he crouched down big happy grins on Charlie and Chani! They were giggling as Jaidee inched forward to rub their faces with a wet nose! BIG fun!

Loud Jabee's' as they reached out for him. He slid between them and they crawled up on his back. Cute kids on his dark brown fur! Jabee's' and lots more laughing.

Tha beside me laughing holding my hand. We were all laughing as Charlie fell over onto his butt. The little guy crawled to face Jaidee rubbing his face on the warm fur! Chani laying across Jaidee's back patting the deck carpet giggling away!

A big pink tongue landed on Charlie's cheek sliding up! Such terrific fun! They rolled around for a while pulling on Jaidee, rubbing him and getting wet kisses!

Tha had dinner ready for them so I fed Jaidee alongside them which they liked. Tha kept them focused on their food!

While Yobi and Ban did our dinner Cho and I did a bunny book reading for the Twins. Jaidee against my leg, Chani's fingers stroking his back. Charlie liked the big black and white bunny with floppy ears. He clapped and wanted to see it again. Cho smiling turning the page back.

We landed at Quatro de Fevereiro International Airport as the sun came up. Breakfast and Twins time before we headed to our appointment.

I chose a black short sleeve dress in cotton, close to my torso with a circle skirt to mid-thigh. Black accessories, red Jimmy Choo heels and gold jewellery, red nails and lips! `Joy' Red round shades!

Cho in a tan suit with a pale blue shirt and a navy and chestnut brown tie. Golden horses on his cuffs! Chestnut brown shoes! Yea!

Going north on Avenida Revolucao de Outubro we passed through neighborhoods of a few high-rise buildings and lots of small houses. Everything got more vertical as we entered the downtown government district.

We picked Michael up at the Hospedaria Madeira on Rua Pardoso then turned south four blocks to the Ministry of Energy and Water. We met the Minister in a large conference room.

Cho had kidded me during the drive about doing these `visits,' smiling!

"I like you wanting to be part of the `sales pitch' to give The Company a bit of an edge."

The minister and his staff knew who we were and we had very gracious welcome. We had tea and Michael began his presentation. My part was to give the big picture about The Company and its future. I gave them a summary of our world-wide projects.

Michael was delivering a great rundown of what we proposed for the Okavango, Cuanza and Zambezi River projects. How our technology could give the government control on-site and from Luanda. The latter was a good selling point as many of the river locations were in remote parts of the country. Satellite linkages and microwave communication wouldn't demand huge communication construction schemes which would be costly and time consuming.

Michael pointed out our equipment could be lifted by helicopters in their air ministry inventory keeping the costs down getting it on-site. A look towards Cho and I by the minister. Later he was pleased we had done a thorough analysis of his country capabilities so we knew what could and couldn't be done.

"It shows you are very interested in Angola to go that far. That is a good start."

The minister was nodding as Michael summarized. They wanted us to do this. Two competitors had been in to give presentations, ours was the best by far the whole group of the ministry experts said.

Michael said he'd get contracts out from London immediately for them to review and markup. Hands shaken all around!

The minister asked us to luncheon at a nearby restaurant he favored. It was quiet with a nice shady outdoor space under a large awning. We did tell the minister what we didn't eat which was fine. He ordered for us.

He started with Quiabos com camarão which are prawns and okra with garlic and tomato; arroz de marisco, rice with white fish; calulu was delicious, dried fish with okra, sweet potatoes, tomatoes served with a garlic white bean dish. Lots of chikuanga, a manioc bread in banana leaves.

It was all very good, new tastes! Pavê de ginguba as dessert was terrific! A peanut sponge cake! Coffee!

We talked the project and Angola. The Minister let us know he'd done some research on us as we had on Angola.

"There is a very fine resort sixty kilometers south that has golf and horses..." smiling, "I do not play golf but I am told it is a very fine course. For you Cho it might be less of a challenge than others but..." he extended his hand to Cho, "it could be pleasant to try it some time."

"Miss Martin, the resort has riding horses plus polo and a good deal of open space along the coast. So maybe you will come back to see us?"

I said I most likely would during the construction of the project.

As we were leaving the Minister bought a package of Pé-de-moleque as a gift for me. Peanut and caramel candy! It looked tasty on the package.

My hand was kissed, good handshakes for Cho and Michael by our car. He let us know we would be welcome in Angola any time. We thanked him.

Back on the 767 we were cleared for takeoff. I changed to jeans for play time with the Twins after we were in level flight. Cho and Francis went to work on something. Michael joined me on the deck with a group of puzzles and a book on cars.

The Twins were their usual marvels with the colour and shape brainteasers, all matched up! Michael laughing to see them go to it. He liked reading to them!

"Nice attentive audience."

I laughed, "They enjoy their readings."

Email from Carter, Desmond had come to stay for a weekend. Wow! I wondered if he would ever. Carter in a dry manner wrote Desmond had met Graeme and a few of his Army friends who'd come out to ride, in particular he spent time with Roseanna the Army captain.

Interesting as the in particular' was all in caps. I responded with a few ????'

Carter was back to me very soon, They sat in the Great Room together for several hours talking. Kendall brought them tea. He said they were engrossed.'

Terrific! I really liked Desmond and wanted him to have the best life. Cho gave me a thumbs up when I told him.

In the early evening light we could see the mountains surrounding the long valley where L'Aquila was set. The sun's rays no longer struck the city as we touched down at Preturo Airport. A small facility about five miles from the city's downtown.

We had cars waiting and the drive was short. We pulled up on Via San Crisante, the Hotel L'Aquila.

At the front a man and a woman introduced themselves.

"Benvenuti signorina Martin e il signor Cho!

We are very pleased to have you as our guests."

I thanked them in Italian which was quite the surprise. "Siamo molto lieti di essere qui."

I introduced Gil, Francis and Tha, our hosts got to meet the Twins who were admired. Naturally!

They said they had the entire second floor for us. Rooms for all our staff. A slender dark haired young woman was brought forward as Tha's contact for anything the Twins needed. She could speak French making communication with Tha easy. Their heads together to get the Twins a snack and what was required for breakfast.

We had a booking at a restaurant on the Piazza del Duomo. A quick change from jeans to a midnight blue light wool long sleeve frock. Mid-thigh with scoop neckline where several gold chains hung nicely. Gold Jewellery elsewhere and dark blue accessories. I wore the navy blue wool trenchcoat from Coach with gloves.

Cho in black with one of the Berluti ties, silver. Gil, Francis, PJ and Rande came with us on the short walk.

A few blocks brought us to the east end of the Piazza del Duomo. In the fading light we could see the restoration from the earthquake was completed. The piazza looked marvelous. Globe lights around the center giving a golden glow to the building fronts.

Osteria del Duomo on the north side halfway along had two tables in the front for us. Gil had gone in with Francis. Michael loving the view. Cho and I held hands looking around the wonderful piazza. When we entered the owner greeted us with a huge smile.

The table was snowy white with handsome linens. The glasses a good quality crystal which were filled with a house wine from a nearby vineyard to go with a tasty looking spread of hors d'oeuvres centered by some wonderful local truffles!!

A Montepulciano called Cerasuolo that was excellent, a Rosé that had cinnamon, strawberry and something like orange hints in the bouquet.

The meal was superb! Sole in a white wine sauce and ravioli dolci di ricotta Pasta alla Pescorara with mussels, the recipe was from the owner's wife's family, she was from Pescara on the Adriatic coast. A local traditional Montepulciano red was excellent with the food.

We shared a ciambella cake at the end with cappuccinos. Smiles all around. The waiters had been skilled, ready to re-fill a glass, serving the food with style! We asked the owner and his wife to sit with us over the coffee.

Our Italian was praised, they could see we enjoyed ourselves which gave them pleasure. True restaurateurs! A delightful dinner.

We walked the perimeter of the piazza before going back to Via San Crisante.

The twins were asleep, Tha smiling!

Our suite was nice, the bed comfortable, sleep fast and easy with a warm Cho!

Our Italian friend in New York was right, it was quite chilly in the morning. I was in black wool today, an all-black outfit. The wool jacket with the big buttons for added warmth.

In the hotel's meeting room we greeted the local water resources folks who represented the towns and cities of the entire large valley and nearby mountain areas. They were surprised to see an Englishwoman who spoke fluent Italian. Cho was known to several because of Harcourt Racing so he connected with them.

I once again did an overview of The Company with an emphasis on the future of our technology.

Michael came on with the plans for capturing the water from the encircling mountains more efficiently, guiding it to storage in a closely managed way. He used examples from around the world to show how we dealt with different climates and terrain.

He ran a video from Ni's shop with real pictures and video with the side by side animation. I could see the crowd nodding and speaking quietly with each other. That kind of remote control would make the deal.

We took questions for quite some time, some nuts & bolts ones, some financial and a few general questions about the project as whole. As our time for using the room was running out I got up to thank them for listening and that we had enough time for coffee and snacks.

I got an espresso and a nice older man beside me from Pizzoli which was up the valley in the rising mountains. He asked about the size of some of the parts. He was a retired mechanical engineer. I told him we they could be lifted by helicopter as we were planning to do that in Angola for completely different reasons. So his concern about a huge road building project was allayed.

Another fellow asked about the microwave transmissions. Did we have talking points for them when people ask if the signals would harm them. I said I didn't to hand but we would do the research and produce a report for the local governments. He was happy.

"I know the microwaves are safe but we do have a large number of citizens who are not in away technical."

I shook his hand saying I understood and we would be prepared.

We thanked the hotel folks for taking good care of us as guests. Their breakfast had been delicious! As we left I made a point of telling them how we liked the hotel and would be back.

They loved having us and the Twins. The staff had all been introduced and lost their hearts to the Twins.

Off to the airport. Francis texted he'd be leaving the last winery heading there also. He'd beat us since he was just above it. A thumbs up with a big lorry! Okay. Cho grinning, rubbing his hands.

At the aircraft a two tonne lorry was backed up near a cargo door. Cases were being loaded into the hold. Francis came over.

"Bulls-eye!"

We laughed. Fist bumps.

I carried Chani up the stairs behind Tha with Charlie. Jaidee was waiting, he was all happy, wiggling puppy! He licked the Twins faces which started them laughing. We got them settled for takeoff then I changed and grabbed the Choco boy!

We hugged, Cho rubbing his back. Ro grinning said he'd just had a great walk around the airfield.

Stephanie's voice on the Tannoy that we were closed up, ready to depart. We taxied to the north end then the power rush to a fast takeoff and a big turn to starboard. We came back around to go due north. Clermont-Ferrand!

We had only an hour flight. Yobi and Ban would feed us tonight for early night. I managed to convince Cho to get up early to go see the cathedral in the morning.

Sipping my coffee watching Cho do the same as he watched me. Smiles! I squeezed his hand. We were ready.

I was in wool again, chilly. Gray mid-thigh with black accessories. Silver jewellery and `Joy' Cho in black again with a Harcourt Racing green tie. Tara and Ro with us today. They looked like young executives, deadly underneath!

Gil and Francis had lots of work to complete before we hit Paris!

Michael smiling as we got in the cars, "Would it be appropriate for Karla to travel with me once in a while?"

I said right away it was good with me. I almost said he should ask the boss but that was me! Fist bump.

The car dropped us at seven thirty on Rue des Gras at Place de la Pucelle. You could look down the rue to see the face of the Cathedrale Notre Dame de L'Assomption. It was a unique sight!

A gothic cathedral in black stone! We walked up the slight rise to the entrance. It was awesome to be under the twin three hundred foot spires!! It was just opening as we arrived. Up the many black steps through the red doors into the splendid nave... it was majestic!

The dark stone gave off an aura! The morning sun on the glass behind and above the chancel lighting up the colours. The soaring ceiling with more stained glass on the sides. If the church wanted to impress this was the way to do it proper.

The construction started in 1248 and it was officially completed in 1884. The work that went into it!!

Cho's hand squeezing, A whisper, "You were right to do this."

A quick kiss.

We toured for almost two hours. It was a stupendous. A beautiful thing built so well. Admiration for the craftsmen! I wanted to go on but we had a date.

One block north was the Hotel de Ville. Since the city was the eight hundred pound gorilla in the Auvergne they were hosting our presentation. An official of the Mairie de Clermont-Ferrand met us at the front. We were led upstairs to a first floor meeting room.

Michael plugged into the screen and got ready as Cho and I pressed the flesh with two dozen attendees. We introduced ourselves as management from The Company.

I spoke with an engineer from Michelin who was a local councilor. He asked a technical question about our sensors. Testing I thought. Was I just a pretty face?

I gave him a partial answer in technical language also saying there was more but the devices were proprietary and patented. He shook his head... like clearing cobwebs!

I guess I passed his little exam.

A woman, slender and my height, black hair and gray eyes was smirking over the Michelin man's shoulder. We introduced ourselves, Aurore was a councilor from Riom north of Clermont-Ferrand.

Her smile less sardonic now, in English she said `that was a job well done!'

Aurore leaned close, "I know he doesn't speak English. You are doing this very low key. And your French is excellent!"

I thanked her in French.

I stuck out my fist, Aurore hesitated then grasped the meaning and bumped. We laughed.

"We and especially me, are here to support Michael who represents The Company in Europe."

"Well, I would say he has some very high class backup!"

I thanked Aurore again. She was a labour lawyer in Riom as well as an elected councilor.

"We have a good deal of manufacturing in our city, I also do work here in the big city."

In answer to her question I said we'd fly out when this meeting concluded to Paris for a week. Our children were on the aircraft for their first trip to Paris.

Time to start. I said I'd enjoyed meeting Aurore and she to me, "I have never met a celebrity before."

I smiled, "I'm hardly that but thanks for the thought."

Cheek kisses.

Like the last two days I began with The Company, the what and where of us. Michael did the nuts and bolts! The snow levels were varying a great deal year to year so collecting the run-off was going to be very important to have a balanced system.

Being able to manage it from a central location was once more a huge selling point.

We did a question period afterwards. There were some but fewer than in L'Aquila. Aurore did ask about our work force who might participate.

I said that they were from dozens of nationalities, ages, ethnicities and sexes since we hire on merit. As a group they had a plethora of skills, well above average intellect and were self-starting and curious folk.

They did not have a labour bargaining unit but we would not oppose it if they wanted to organize.

That wrapped up the meeting. We had the email addresses of the participants like in L'Aquila, they were told to look for several packets of information. We thanked them for their kind attention.

We said our goodbyes, I stepped to Aurore to say it had been nice to meet. She gave me a big smile. Cheeks kissed.

We all loaded up except Michael. There was a Gulfstream waiting for him to Chalgrove. Hugs, kisses and we had his thanks for the incredible support!

Thirty five minute flight to Le Bourget then by car on the Boulevard Peripherique to Cours de Vincennes exit. Around the Place de la Nation onto Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine around the Place de la Bastille onward on Rue Saint-Antoine to Rue Fourcey, cross over Pont Marie to Rue des Deux Ponts. A left onto Quai Bethune was the end.

Lucien was at the door, smiling with a bow as our cars rolled through to the courtyard. Augusta at their doorway, they got to meet the Twins! Both of them thought Charlie and Chani beautiful babies. Bien Sur!! Ha.

Up the lift to the third floor. We dropped our outer wear and helped Tha get the Twins settled in their Nursery. Tha grinning as she looked around "Miss it is very handsome! Everything we need!"

A hug. Kisses for the Twins. Cho and I carried their food down to the second floor to the kitchen, we got started warming it. Tha would take it from here.

We gathered our crowd for a walk. North to the Brassiere d'Ile de Paris for lunch. Twelve of us were welcomed, a table at the back on the banquette.

Thierry gave me a précis of the new menu, I chose the bouillabaisse, grilled trout, cheese and fruit at the end. Cho would do the wine. I headed to the bar.

Alain started the espresso when he saw me coming, a huge smile!

"We will be here about a week so you might see us again."

"It will our pleasure to have you here."

We talked about the racing at Chantilly where we'd be Saturday. He would check out Satirical and Amira, maybe do a few bets. I let him know they were both new to us and these races were their first for Harcourt Racing.

"Miss, if they are running for you... they must be good."

I laughed saying be cautious. I thanked him for the pick me up espresso.

I slid into the banquette over Cho's lap with an ever so slight pat on my left butt cheek. My soup arrived so I concentrated on that.

Gil gave us the schedule of arrivals, Mu and Kuva on a Cho-Fay flight landing in a few hours, Ludwig with Edda and Erich on a train coming in to Gare de l'Est just a bit later.

Once again the food was excellent! Many thanks from us.

We walked back on the Rue Saint-Louis l'Ile to do some shopping. We stopped at the Boulangerie St Louis, Nicolas' for wine, La Ferme Saint-Aubin for lots of fromage, the Carrefour Express for miscellaneous bits and the Calvert's for ice cream!!

Gil and I sat on the settees by the fire in Library to work, she had a pile of things. I had my usual selection of reports and quite a few emails. I was plowing through as Cho made us coffee to fuel the work!!

All this was pushed aside as the Twins came in! Cho and I on the carpet playing! I leaned on a settee with Charlie on my lap facing me. Tiny hands on my face stroking, HUGE grin, my fingers finding a bit of tummy, GIGGLES! Great fun! Charlie pressed against me arms around my neck, soft cheek on mine! Big Hug! What a guy!

We read a book about Paris, great photos.

Tha brought coats and hats, a blanket. Cho and I got outer wear. Ken and Ansara to go with us. The pram was in a closet off the tunnel.

We rolled out the front door, Lucien waving goodbye to the Twins. They were smiling waving their hands in little mittens.

We went east down the quai to Pont Sully across Boulevard Henri IV to Square Barye. It was a cute little park at the end of the island with playground equipment. The Seine was parted into two streams at the tip. You could look up river towards the Pont d'Austerlitz.

We didn't linger with guests coming, going back we turned into Rue de Bretonvillers to pass through the archway to Rue Saint-Louis d'Ile. We looked in shop windows moving along at a moderate pace. Several women with shopping bags admired the Twins who gave them big grins.

We stopped at Maison Tempus so Cho could get some bottles of Val d'Auge Calvados. The owner came out to meet the Twins.

We turned for home at Rue Poulletier passing the front of the church of Saint-Louis d'Ile. They were to start a major renovation in a year and half. The curé was outside looking at the sign showing the work to be done.

He greeted us and admired the Twins. I could see the realisation of who we were come over him... he took our hands when we offered smiling. He was father Bertrand. He asked what brought us to being on this street.

Amazement, we had a home around the corner! He knew Montaigan as parishioner and missed having him in church but hoped Martinique was good for him. He hadn't a clue we bought Montaigan's home. We told him it had been kept quiet for all the obvious reasons.

He understood and would not broadcast the information.

He found out we were a Buddhist and Church of England combination. He did invite us to visit because they had many `cultural' events that weren't especially religious. We thanked him for the invitation.

He squeezed the Twins hands, they were smiling. A nice meeting with a pleasant fellow. Neither of us particularly wanted any more religion in our lives than we had right now.

We made a right on our street going to the door as the car with Mu and Kuva arrived.

We followed the car into the courtyard. Hugs and kisses! The Twins did hugs too! Up the lift, at the door Gil said the other car driver said they were through Place de la Bastille and on Boulevard Henri IV. Close.

Cho got them seated and Francis did drinks.

I went back downstairs to the door with Lucien.

"Mademoiselle, your babies are very cute."

I smiled thanking him. Text from Gil, `Rue des Deux Ponts'

I walked back into the courtyard as Lucien opened the main door, PJ standing quietly by the lift door as the car slid by. Erich out first, smile, hug.

"Fay good to see you again."

Ludwig climbed out and handed out Edda. He did the introductions.

"Edda, it is delightful to welcome you both to our home."

A hug, cheek kisses. The same for Ludwig. We were all smiles going up the lift.

Cho at the doors, handshakes and a hug for Edda. They had met once before in Frankfurt.

Coats and accessories taken. Cho ushered them into the saloon where Mu and Kuva were sitting with Francis. More introductions and drinks! Cho and I doing the drinks.

We settled to talk... banking, the guys; Edda liked my my black jeans and slightly cut-off long sleeved red top. She was in dark gray slacks and a soft, long sleeved white jumper. Her black hair in a layered long pixie cut, gray eyes! Her clothes colours fit perfectly.

We talked clothes!

We decided to wander the Rive Gauche and spend money while the men went to their meetings the next two days. Ludwig made a funny gesture about checking his wallet which a big laugh from everyone!

I took Edda upstairs to meet the Twins. She asked about the house I said it would take a bit so I would tell everyone at dinner. Okay? She smiled, squeezed my hand.

She loved our babies.

"It has been years for ours to have been at this age but I enjoyed them so much."

Theirs were now in the late teen years, at university and mostly gone from the house.

Charlie and Chani did their usual easy capture of a new heart. Edda standing beside me holding Chani, Charlie in my arms reached out for his sister. They held hands giggling. Charlie started it and soon we all were there. Tha sitting in a chair, shining eyes, laughing with us.

We walked with the babies to our suite. Edda said it was exquisite and romantic. I said we would sleep here for the first time tonight. I quickly explained our being guests before in a room across the passage.

We slowly walked the entire floor so she could see it and the room for them.

"Fay the house is lovely. Our suite is marvelous."

Tha came with us downstairs, she would get the Twins dinner ready while they visited with the crowd. Kuva took Charlie from me, Ludwig got Chani. Talk drifted around the Twins and children. Mu had two girls and two boys all grown up, married. He had six grandkids to date. Kuva two, one of each, Erich's sons were out on their own with families, four grandkids. Ludwig smiling as Edda told the tale of their two.

The Twins holding court until Tha collected them for food.

We all went up to freshen up and change for our dinner. I chose the Armani black stretch wool trousers, upper ankle length with a white collarless silk blouse then the Herno black sequin-embellished tweed jacket over. Black ankle strap heels, silver jewellery and Baccarat Les Larmes Sacrees de Thebes dapped by Cho. A black cashmere scarf and leather gloves.

Cho in one of his sleek suits, this one was silver gray with a black shirt I bought him on Rodeo Drive!

We met in the saloon. Everyone looked good. We looked `stylishly casual.' That brought a laugh.

It was a short walk over the Seine to Atelier Maitre Albert on Rue Maitre Albert. As we passed Rue des Bernardins Cho pointed towards the far end to where our Paris office was located. We still didn't know if Brexit was going to be a thing but the failure to hold a second vote was going to cost the Tories a lot of support at the polls.

We had the Bibliotheque room set for nine with a table for PJ and Rande by the doorway. The Bonsai tree was beautiful, wood and stone walls made it a pleasant relaxed setting.

We scanned the menu, Cho asked sommelier to choose wine for the table based on what we ordered. He nodded.

I started with the grilled scallops then `Poisson du Marche' which today was brown trout on the spit. I added the Gratin Dauphinois pomme de terre and the Gratin d'Epinards Champignons.

We sipped wine with our starters as I gave everyone a précis of our buying the house on Quai de Bethune. Our guests loved the story and felt the sadness of Montaigan. Cho said he was quite a good fellow, he had followed the family tradition of military service but was probably better suited to have been a philosopher.

Edda next to me, "He and you got close didn't you?"

"Yes. He is rather a dear man, an excellent conversationalist, quite droll."

Cho smiling, "Montaigan also plays a fierce game of poker!"

Everyone laughed.

Ludwig, Edda and I talked horses. I gave them an open invite to Harcourt House to ride. They could come over the Channel for a few days ride and see the estate. Visit some tourist things and be pampered by our staff! Sounded good to them.

I told Edda about the Topanga ranch with a quiet hint about Rodeo Drive. Eyebrows went up, a big smile! Ludwig looking over at us, a wondering gaze, he hadn't heard the last part, Edda grinning saying it was about seeing Los Angeles.

The food being served as we spoke was wonderful. The scallops cooked just right!

My trout flaky, the hunters sauce very smooth, flavourful but not hiding the fish. The vegetables and potatoes under their crusts excellent.

The sommelier did his job very well. The wines adding their bouquet!! Good choices.

Cho smiling over at me. He told the table he had eaten here about five years ago and the quality was unchanged!

Dessert! Fresh plums, Breton shortbread and salted caramel ice cream for me! What a terrific combination! The sommelier's offered a choice of vin santo or sherry... a dry sherry!

A great dinner! Our walk home was easy down the Quai de la Tournelle over the bridge. No we did not go to Grandma's house!

Cho and I went up to see the Twins. They were asleep! Tha reading, huge smile!

After Jaidee's early walk around the streets, Tara and I started breakfast.

Our shopping provided everyone with coffee, toasted bread and sliced fruit! The bankers would be fed at the meeting place, we were to wander.

Our bankers looking very nice and professional were off to `Maison de la Mutualité. The first of several days.

Spring weather had a foggy chilly morning, it was supposed to clear and warm up. It wasn't showing any signs of that as we went out.

I chose one of the Mirabelle outfits. The black toreador pants cut at the top of my ankles, a sleeveless white silk blouse and a pale beige jacket with three quarter length sleeves, narrow shape down to mid-thigh, white silk lining, a white with slender black stripes silk scarf long enough to Loop n' Through and hang down. Black ankle boots, silver jewellery bits and `Joy' Red lensed sunglasses for the sun and other things.

Edda in dark gray slacks, pearl gray long sleeved jumper and a black trench coat.

I added black leather gloves and loaned a pair to Edda from my house stock. Tara and Tessa had overcoats and gloves too!

We crossed the bridge to the Rive Gauche. A right on Boulevard Saint-Germain, we strolled along looking in windows. I did go into a children's shop to buy two onesies, dark blue with white piping. The one year old size.

Ah! A bookstore that looked like it wasn't mass market titles. It was handsome inside, dark wood bookshelves and display tables, a delicious musty smell, and an older gentleman with glasses on his nose.

I asked if they had a particular book, a single volume history of the Montaigan family. I got raised eyebrows!

"Mademoiselle such a book isn't often requested. We do not have it but I am sure I could source it for you. Is there a hurry?"

"No. I have a copy in excellent condition and want a second... " smiling at his surprise, "I want to send the copy we have to a friend who is a member of the Montaigan family. We would keep the one you find."

His mouth made an `oh' shape. And looked at my face with a slight shake of his head.

"Our copy is signed by the author so it would mean more to him."

I was assured he would be diligent in finding a second one. I asked for it to be in best possible condition but I understood there would be limited choices.

Monsieur Verlaine accepted one of Gil's cards as the person to contact.

We had been seated at his desk and he escorted us back to the sales floor as we passed another desk he paused... a copy of a French glossy magazine was top of a stack of books and folders... my face on the cover.

Monsieur Verlaine looked up I smiled...

"Mademoiselle you do surprise me."

I took his hand, "We have a house on Ile de Saint-Louis so we are neighbors."

My hand was kissed. A sweet gesture!

Outside Edda smiling, "Fay, you win hearts easily."

I laughed, "But keeping them is the challenge!"

We joined arms laughing going down the street.

We turned right at Boulevard Saint-Michel not far down was Etam. It was on my informal list in my head. Lightweight jumpers!

I found the Balloon sleeve Rib Jumper in gray. Yes! A sleek looking black cashmere V-Neck jumper and a long sleeved white jumper with big black Breton Stripes. All light for summer wear on a chilly evening.

Tara and Tessa each took some time to look! Edda was deep in shoes and accessories.

I added a pair of checked cigarette trousers in black, they stopped above my ankles.

The saleslady loved my look, "casual but sophisticated' was description.

I joined Edda, she had a pair of marbled heel ankle boots in black, nice and a good looking scarf, black with stars in silver.

I called Gil for a car to meet us back at Boulevard Saint-Germain in about forty five minutes.

In sportswear I found a very nice set for the beach, navy blue short shorts with white piping and a cropped sweatshirt top to match. Edda came in and went right to bikinis!

I was done, as I paid my saleslady said I had very good taste. I thanked her. She hadn't said anything, her hand slipped below the sales desk to pull out yet another glossy magazine with my face. Inside were snaps of my green suit at the Bel-Air Club.

"A customer asked if we had anything like it. We don't do that sort of `retro' clothing. You looked very elegant."

I thanked her again. My companions crowded in to pay. Tara was done first and joined me to wait on the sidewalk. When everyone was done we headed south on Saint-Michel then west on Saint-German.

Boggi was on my mental list. I bought two things for Cho. A cashmere zip up jumper in navy. Trim cut, he would look smashing! A bomber jacket in navy also. It was padded weather proof flannel, soft, easy for him to move when wearing it maybe for golf. Handsome to make Cho more handsome if that were possible!

Edda bought the same jacket for Ludwig. A huge grin.

"I try to find him clothes he can't wear to the office."

We laughed. Outside the car rolled up. All our shopping went in the boot, I thanked the driver. A big smile from him.

FOOD! Soon! Lots more laughing. We passed a news agent. Their outside display had four or five magazines with my face. I went to buy a few with my sunglasses on.

Coming out a boy ran up and tried to grab my purse. When I couldn't let go fast enough he brought out a knife but Tessa was on him already. She pinned him to the sidewalk, a hand on his neck, a knee in the back, holding the wrist where the knife was. She told him she'd break his arm to get it. He let go. I kicked it towards Tara who was on guard, she put a foot on it.

Tessa searched him and found another knife in his sock. She tossed it towards Tara. The news agent came out `tut tutting.'

I asked if this happened often. He said much less than in the past. When I asked about calling the police he shook his head saying `les flics' would let him go because of his age.

Tessa stood him up in her tight grip, he squirmed to no avail. She told him the names her called weren't very nice, next time she would just shoot him to make a quick end. She shoved him away and gave him a good kick in his hind parts.

"You better run fast."

He ran about twenty yards then turned to give her a middle finger. Tessa feinted running towards him and he took off very quickly down the block and around the nearest corner.

A nice interlude to the day. Tessa grinning. Tara dropped both knives into the sewer. Fist bumps!

Edda had been taken off guard by the boy but she was grinning about Tessa's expertly delivered encouraging boot.

All calm we walked to Bouillon Racine for lunch. A table at the back on the banquette, Tara beside me facing out, Tessa opposite to her and Edda facing me.

We scanned the menu, I asked for the sommelier. I did their vichyssoise followed by carpaccio to start, the fish of the day which was sole, breaded, grilled with a house hunter's sauce.

Sommelier was tasked to get what he thought would be appropriate and `les meilleurs millesimes s'il vous plait' said with a big smile. He bowed returning my smile.

The food was excellent, served beautifully and the wines superb. A very fine meal. I asked for the owner but he wasn't in. I left one of my cards which was just my name and the Harcourt House address. The manager thanked us.

Feeling quite good we entered the Musee National du Moyen Age. I wanted to see once again the `Lady and the Unicorn' tapestries. Going into the circular room... Those brilliant reds! The calm lady, those cute little animals all around, the beautiful lions and the smiling unicorns!

Magnificent work from the end of the Fifteenth Century, the restoration amazing. A treasure!

I was looking at the last when Tessa leaned close to whisper, "Fay, if you can create a diversion... Tara and I will roll them up for you."

I had her hand, "Thank you but it would only cause trouble."

We quietly giggled!

We wandered a bit then out on the street. Edda's arm through mine.

"It's fun to shop with you."

I laughed, "Well you do get variety."

More window gazing then heading home.

Before the bridge a last stop. Turron Vicens for nougat! A pound of soft nougat, a sack of Agramunt almond nougat, a pound of egg yolk nougat and a pound of coconut nougat! I also bought boxes of mixed selections.

My friends all bought some nougat of various types. A big sales day!

At the house I rushed up to the nursery pulling Edda along. The Twins were having fun with Jaidee! He was such a good guy as they crawled over him, hugged and kissed him. Tha watching with a big smile.

I gave them hugs and kisses. I gave the onesies to Tha. The one year old size had her laugh, "They will both be wearing them tomorrow!"

Yes, the Twins were big for their age at only ten months.

Tha got a box of the mixed nougats! Big eyes. A hug!

Edda holding Chani, smiles. "Beautiful!"

I laughed, "We think so too!"

I went down to the first floor to see Luce and Marie. They were thrilled at the box of candy. Luce saying Marie has a real sweet tooth! They were both excellent!

I invited them up for drinks before our crowd went out to eat, they could meet the Twins.

Augusta clasped the box of sweets to her bosom with Lucien laughing, "Mademoiselle I will never see them again!"

I asked Augusta to let Lucien have at least one piece. She was giggling!

Gil had been working hard, she was completely caught up and ahead on some things!!

I put a box of the egg yolk nougat in her lap... big eyes! I got yet another hug! Good stuff.

Now I had to do some work. In the study Edda sat to look at the glossies I bought while did my reading and writing.

"Here is the magazine the saleslady at Etam had. You do look very sleek in that suit."

I told her the back story and that I had another dress from the group for the cocktail party at the bankers thing tomorrow.

"This..." she held up a French Women's clothing magazine I picked with the glossies, "says your clothes are impacting styles on both sides of the Atlantic."

`Well, what I wear is usually pretty simple even if it looks more complicated. Many thanks to dear old Edith Head for some of the most recent!"

A text from Rande, they were leaving. Edda, Gil and I did a cheese and fruit tray, warmed some small bread squares and got drinks stuff ready for the bankers. They came in ready to relax a bit before dinner.

Our guys brought along two more as I expected them to do. Calendar from the Wall Street investment bank and Cornell the manager of the Green Investment Fund at our City bank.

Luce and Marie came up and introductions done. The Twins arrived! Our lady tenants were so warm and cuddly with Chani and Charlie. I sat beside Luce with a questioning look as she held Chani.

A smile, "Yes. I do have a daughter, she is thirty six, married and I have two grandchildren, a boy and a girl. My marriage ended when our daughter, Fabrice, was twelve, almost twenty four years ago. It was good. My former husband and I don't see each other but there is no animosity."

Marie came to hold Chani for a bit. Luce smiling at the two together, "We met as colleagues at the Sorbonne. Spent time with each other, slowing came into being a pair. We have shared lives with our families who have been very loving all these years."

Looking at Marie still, eyes a little misty, I took her hand, "We were very lucky to find each other!"

I squeezed the hand, "Us too! We were an accident of sorts but in a few hours we knew!"

She smiled and squeezed back. I moved the conversation on. Luce had been an English literature professor at the Sorbonne. I told her about my childhood enjoyment of Jane Austen and I lived near her home in Chawton. My frequent visits, taking Cho there the first time, sitting in the summer garden.

Luce hadn't ever been to Chawton. She admired Jane Austen for her clear, incisive writing and delightful detail but also for being a woman novelist in a time when men held all the cards.

"Go over, you and Marie can stay in our house in Froyle, it too has a lovely garden. Be in the English countryside!"

She was enthusiastic.

"It's a nice area, a pleasant house. It is a short trip down to Winchester to see Jane's resting place in the beautiful cathedral. The town is quite handsome. Do either of you drive?"

A non.

"Okay how about this? We fly you over on one of our aircraft, you can stay in the house London for a few days or more then motor to Froyle. Our driver will stay with you at the house, he's been there many times and is a devoted Austen fan."

She was grinning. Quietly clapping her hands.

"Then he'll drive you around Hampshire anywhere you want, Okay?"

Luce waving Marie over, she was bouncing on the settee beside me when Luce told her my idea.

"Prasert, our car service manager, is from Thailand but has been in England for many years. He married an Oxfordshire girl who is shortly to make them parents."

They each had a hand, so it was hard to wave to Gil... she arrived anyway, her sixth sense about me working! I gave her the `plan' and got a big grin in return. She told the ladies she'd make a start. They needed to choose when then she'd send them a possible itinerary and what they would need to bring.

Excitement! Cho saw our covey and joined us. Smiling eyes when he heard what I was up to.

"Mesdames... it is a lovely part of England, the house in Froyle is very simpatico!"

The Twins dinner was served so we get ready to go out. Hugs for Luce and Marie! Big bright eyes!

I nudged Edda `little black dress' which got her giggling and nodding! When we came back down to the men all of us ladies were in black. Kuva, Gil, Edda each had a nice dress, a bit slinky. Me in a skin tight wool dress above mid-thigh, deep plunge at the back, a high collar, sleeveless. Thigh high stockings and black stilettos. Silver bits and Baccarat Les Larmes Sacrees de Thebes. Long black gloves up to my biceps. The black Coach camel's hair coat over all.

The guys were very impressed with us! As they should be! Our handsome escorts walked us over the bridge to Rue de Pontoise to Le Petit Pontoise. Warned in advance the `Maitre' greeted us, we had a long table on the banquette under the chalkboards. Our protectors beside us.

I heard a man make a oooohhhh' sound behind me when Cho helped me take off the coat. I watched PJ's eyes aimed at him, a slight ahem' from PJ... nothing further because the `man' looked his way.

The Maitre looked dismayed but I reassured her it was of no consequence.

I sat rubbing my gloved hands anticipating a good dinner. Our waiter had lost a bit of his Gallic phlegm'ness when he recognized us. My big smile warmed him up. My `Pernod avec l'eau' request brought a grin. Drinks came quickly and we ordered.

The Maitre was also the sommelier so Cho engaged her in wine choices for the table saying she should use her discretion. He knew I was good with whatever he decided.

I got the waiter to grin some more saying I was hungry, my starters were the roasted camembert followed by the `Crystal Blue' shrimp. For my main course the turbot with meuniere sauce and small roasted new potatoes! He gladly added the daily vegetables to that. I was good.

Everyone seemed very pleased with the menu and we had a table of great expectations!

The cheese was wonderful! Almonds were terrific with the cheese, the crust light and sweet. The sauce on the roasted shrimp was a delicate white lemon tangy. I whispered in the waiters ear. A huge smile as he stood up.

Cho watching me from across the table, his gorgeous head, a slight shake. The look of love but knowing I was up to something.

The waiter escorted a kitchen attired tall dark man to my end of the table. Hamman, the commis chef, was thanked by me for the wonderful sauce on the shrimp. He bowed over my hand, I did him one better. I stood to give him a hug.

"You have started my dinner so well!"

He was amazed but obviously pleased to be so publically praised.

Cho laughing after, "Well... I can see the rest of us will benefit by receiving extra special care because of you."

We fist bumped over the shiny wood tabletop. The others laughing and thanking me!! I gave Francis a look, he knew to leave a generous separate cash gift for the staff. Our eyes smiling! `Air' Fist Bumps!

The turbot was heavenly. The meuniere flavourful but not overpowering. The wine Cho and the sommelier choose sharp with apples and cinnamon tones. I enjoyed myself. It appeared I wasn't alone! Conversation died!

Once we had eaten enough to know the remainder would as good we began to talk about our day. I gave the tale of Tessa's bit of fun. At the other table she got it when folks looked her way. She grinned, stood for a brief bow. We applauded in a muted way. Cho raised his glass to her, a quick salute back.

The bankers hadn't been bored but today didn't have that much for them. Tomorrow was the big day! Cho was speaking in the morning and there was the cocktail party in the late afternoon to early evening.

When the clearing away was completed... so many utterly empty plates! We did desserts. I had already made my mind up... Tarte Boudaloue!! When it arrived those who didn't follow me were appropriately envious!

A delightful tart sitting proudly on the plate. Their version was a bit smaller, designed for a single person. Good! I wasn't going to share!

The crust along the edges golden brown looking like it would fall to pieces simply from being admired. The tart had an `X' design with the pear slices, they glowed like amber. The almond crème warm underneath!!

It was delightful! The sherry was a fine mate for the tart!

Our waiter smiling at my look. He leaned over, I said instead of disturbing the dining room again `would I be able to visit the kitchen?' He said he would ask.

The Maitre came over as she would guide me to the kitchen. I took my sherry.

In the center of things I met the Chef and his second. Over the noise the chef called to them all. I raised my sherry to thank them for an especially magnificent dinner. I sipped and they clapped.

The chef walked me back and said I had very generous to Hamman and now this!

"It isn't often such an important person dines with us and is so `bien' to staff."

I thanked him for that and asked if he could hold a table for six for luncheon tomorrow with the caveat that I wasn't sure of the time. The banquette would be perfect. He said it will be `reserved' no doubt.

I shook his hand. Cho stood to also shake hands with him. Cho give me a hug and kiss.

Leaving after a peasant while. As I turned to the door I saw the chef at far end holding the envelope Francis had given him. He blew a kiss towards us! I gave him my best mega-watt smile!

Cho holding my arm as we walked, "You my dear must have the finest collection of hearts in the entire universe!"

I squeezed the arm, "It's easy! I when I am pleased I let people know."

He stopped which almost had Tessa on top of me... a kiss! Our crowd applauded!

The Twins were asleep... little beauties!

Comments are welcome:

Abecker60@yahoo.co.uk