47

Upon arriving home, thirty minutes later, Lora entered the apartment's living room, already removing her heels. I was tired, but not physically. The kitchen light was on, and voices could be heard coming from the room, so I soon learned that his friend, Drake, had arrived from his brief trip to Los Angeles.

Lora dragged herself to the kitchen, noticing that the voices were male. One of them was recognized instantly; Jean Lins. It was like enough of the electricity her body still felt after her unexpected encounter with Banks. The woman sighed, thinking of a thousand reasons for this visit, especially since it was so late. She decided, finally, to just try to drown out the destructive thoughts she had when her father was around and walked into the kitchen.

At the round table, Jean and Drake were enjoying snacks and sipping wine like good friends. Lora felt her stomach turn over.

- "Hi, babe" Drake got up, walked over to her and hugged her tightly enough to steal her breath.

- "Hi. I mi