Dan

Around Dan, I always had the feeling, "I'm yours. Take me."

I'd forgotten that a year ago he sent a typical email asking for information, offering none. I replied, "I'm fine. How are you?" Surprisingly he sent a long, newsy reply.

Wednesday afternoon we sat in The Bookshelf patio. Rain fell around us off the umbrella.

He was 30 when I met him and, now 40, has hardly aged at all. Clean-shaven, I liked him better with a goatee. He put on weight after quitting smoking, but has lost it all again. He looks trim, excellent really. Vivid blue eyes.

I had fallen for his personality: an ex-pastor with a gift for conversation and listening. Dan's extraversion gave us a passport into many social gatherings.

And the sex. Yes, heaven..

We mostly talked about our children. Lowering sun shone in my eyes and I tipped my cap.

Dan was one in a string of boyfriends who had abusive fathers. I was attracted to the undercurrent of anger. It felt like strength.

We talked for three hours. Saying goodbye outside, he slipped his arms under mine and swept me upward. I felt the momentary inner tug, but letting go didn't hurt.

Grade eight

Marian graduated today. More on this tomorrow.