"Kris," she says with hope in her voice, "I do like you–a lot. I would prefer to have you as a male friend, but I like that we are going to be able to spend the summer together after all. It will be a unique summer. I'll just miss the making out!"

"Me too," I say sadly as we share a sisterly hug.

Laurie's tears have changed to tears of relief.  I find myself crying too, for the identical reason.

Chapter 13: On the Road Again–Finally

I reach up and touch the charm on my necklace and wish that I could go for a long run to sort things out.

The Major puts his arm around my shoulder and gives me a squeeze. "In the mean time, Princess, the fish is done," he says with a smile. "Let's go eat."

Chapter 11: Settling In

"The Jeffers are lucky people," he says. "I hope that they treat their daughter well knowing that she is only on loan. We look forward to seeing our son again in a couple of months. Remember that we love you. Don't hesitate to call any time – day or night – if you need anything."

"Thanks, Dad," I say with a watery eyes. "I am looking forward to the job. I am also looking forward to returning again. I really like being a Quinn. I love you." I stand on my toes to give him a kiss on the cheek. I figure that is what a girl would do. It feels right too.

His eyes are misty. I've not seen that before.

Chapter 9: North to Alaska

I lie down on the double bed that I have been sitting on throughout our long chat. I feel convinced that I am about to do the right thing. People are depending on me. I want to see if I can pull this off.

"Okay Mom. Call in the Wizards. I'll do it." I manage to get out before fading into a comfortable sleep.

Chapter 7: Girl Boot Camp Begins

As we say good night, I notice that she is wearing a new necklace. I don't know why I hadn't noticed it earlier. I guess that I am not all that observant at times. Anyway the necklace looks disturbingly familiar. Hanging from a delicate gold chain around her neck is a gold colored charm in the shape of a running shoe.

As I look at it, she says “It reminds me of you,”

and winks at me before heading inside.

Chapter 5: Not Again!

“I’ll have to work on that idea,” is what comes out of my mouth as I start to remove the jeans. Still avoiding looking down or in the mirror.

Chapter 3:  Resignation