“I’ll bring you a special tea . . . to soothe your nerves, my dear. Is that fine?” Nyx spoke softly to Andy. Andy nodded, “Yes, thank you.” Galen handed Andy a box of tissues. “I think she needs something stronger; vodka, perhaps?”

“When we got to class, Andy reached in to my tote and set the rose on my desk. I didn’t understand why she had pulled it out. I had been very careful in making sure it wouldn’t get crushed. It wasn’t until I saw Jean tighten her brows when Andy said in a really loud voice, “David, that rose you gave Isis is beautiful,” that I understood Andy’s reason for putting the flower on display.”

“Galen poked Eryx on the shoulder three times. “Brother, if you feed the cats, they’ll keep coming back. Please. I beg you. Stop.” Bill and Andy broke out in laughter. I bit my bottom lip to keep from smiling at Galen’s rude, yet humorous remark. Jean and Marie took half a turn and walked away.”

“It’s sweet. Passionate. Appealing to the senses.” Andy sounded serious, like a true critic. “Have you thought of majoring in literature?”

“Nope, she’s not depressed,” he said addressing Andy but referring to me. “She’s aging prematurely and at a rapid rate. She’s a grumpy old woman. That’s what she is.”

“Will I be allowed to drive you this afternoon?” David picked at his salad. “Oh, about that . . . I have a doctor’s appointment. I’m riding with Bill and Andy.” David’s eyes narrowed. “Are you ill?” “No.” I was hesitant to tell him I was seeing a psychiatrist. I didn’t want him to think I was a nut job.”

“I wouldn’t have waited,” Galen muttered. “Yes, but, then again, you’re no gentleman, brother,” Eryx laughed.”