Sally woke up in her normal impish mood. She surveyed the bed, noting that Jack was asleep with his arms around Jenny. Being careful not to wake him, Sally slid down next to Brad. She took his semi flaccid penis in her mouth, laving it until it expanded. Brad stirred. Looking down, he saw it was Sally nursing him.

"Mmmm, that feels great, Jack," Brad said trying not to laugh.

Sally exposed her teeth and bit Brad gently. She released her grip when Brad laughed. Sally moved up, kissed Brad's nose and giggled.

"So, you like getting head from Jack better than you like it from me?" Sally said.

"No, I was just kidding you, Sally," Brad said.

"Okay, I'll forgive you this time. If it happens again, I'll really bite you," Sally said with a giggle.

Jenny woke up. She sat up and looked at Brad and Sally. "What time is it?" Jenny said.

"Time to get it up. I already took care of Brad," Sally said. She pointed at Brad's penis and grinned.

Jenny laughed and shook her head. Reaching under the sheet, she gripped Jack's penis. Jack kept his eyes closed and said, "Is that you, Brad?"

Jenny squeezed Jack's member and stuck her tongue out at him. Jack laughed and said, "I heard Brad and Sally. I was just getting even."

The teens got out of bed. They went to the heads to get showered and ready for the day. Sally pulled Brad into one of the heads. Jenny giggled and went into another head with Jack.

While they were in the shower, Fran came into the head Sally and Brad were using. She apologized and turned to leave. Sally stuck her head out of the shower and said, "You can use the toilet if you want to. Brad and I will be finished in a few minutes and you can have the shower."

Fran laughed and told Sally she would wait. She left the room and waited in the passageway. Molly came out of her stateroom and greeted Fran.

"I'm waiting for one of the heads. Brad and Sally are in the shower in this one. Jack and Jenny are using the other one. I think Kim and Tom are using the third head," Fran said.

"It can get busy in the morning," Molly said.

Fran looked at Molly's nakedness. She chuckled and said, "You guys don't seem to be very modest."

"Nope, we're not," Molly said. She smiled and went into the head where Sally and Brad were showering.

When Kim and Tom came out of the head, Fran went in. She was about to lock the door, but shrugged her shoulders. While she used the toilet, no one came in. Fran was going to jump in the shower, but decided to get Randy first.

The group gathered in the galley. Jenny put on the coffee while Brad and Jack went up to the bridge to start the engines. While they ate breakfast, the adults came to the boat.

Jenny poured coffee for their parents and then started another pot. Marge asked the teens if they were ready to go.

"We will be ready in a little bit, Mom. We have to finish eating and clean up the galley. When are you guys heading back?" Kim said.

"Our flights are at eleven and one," Don said. "The plane has to make two trips."

"Why don't you use a bigger plane?" Molly asked.

"We would, but the runway here is too short. The flight doesn't take long so it isn't too bad," Don said.

The teens talked to their parents while they finished eating. After saying goodbye, the parents left. Jack and Brad went to the bridge while Eddie and Molly tended to the lines. Once they cast the boat off, Eddie and Molly stowed the lines in a locker. Jack pulled the boat out of the slip and headed out. Brad told him to stop at the gas dock so they could top off the tanks and have the holding tank pumped out.

Jack eased the boat up to the gas dock. Eddie and Tom grabbed the lines the attendants tossed to them. Jack shut the boat down and the fueling began.

It took forty minutes to top the tanks and pump out the holding tank. Jack pulled the boat away from the pier. He went out into the ocean and brought the boat up on plane.

"Where do we want to fish this morning?" Jack said to Brad.

"I think we should see if we can catch a few dolphin or wahoo. We can try out where we caught the sailfish," Brad said.

Jack punched in the waypoint for the ledge. He set the autopilot and adjusted the trim.

"No hard feelings about last night, Brad?" Jack said.

Brad chuckled and shook his head. "No, it was kind of fun. Sally can be an instigator, can't she?"

"You have no idea. It still amazes me when she comes up with some of the things she thinks of. I'm over being shocked. I just go with the flow," Jack said.

"I'm going to miss you guys when you go up north. We always had fun when we fished, but with you guys here, it's a blast," Brad said.

"Thanks, I'm going to miss you guys too. It won't be too long before we're back though," Jack said.

Brad nodded. "Well, you know we'll be in touch. I think the girls talk to each other every day when you're in Michigan."

Eddie came up to the flying bridge. He checked the chart plotter and then said, "We're ready when you are. We have the rods rigged for dolphin and wahoo. I told the girls they could run the cockpit this morning."

"That's cool, Eddie. I know they like fishing as an all girl team," Brad said.

"I'm going down for coffee, anyone want one?" Eddie said.

Jack and Brad asked Eddie to grab them a cup of coffee. When he returned, Eddie handed hot coffee to Brad and Jack. Tom came up carrying coffee for him and Eddie.

"Where's Randy?" Tom said.

"He was in the cockpit the last time I saw him." Eddie walked to the sundeck and looked down. "Hey, Randy, come up here with us. Grab a coffee if you want one," Eddie said.

Randy joined the rest of the guys on the bridge. They watched forward while they talked about the plans for the day. Randy mentioned he would like it if Fran could catch another fish. He told the others how much Fran had enjoyed herself before.

"I'm sure the girls will let her reel in a fish if we hook one. When the girls run the cockpit, they make the decisions," Brad said.

"You guys take equality serious, don't you?" Randy said.

"Hell yes! Why wouldn't we? The girls fish every bit as well as we do," Tom said. "Besides, it's great watching them have fun."

"You're right about that, Tom. I didn't realize how rewarding it is when Fran is happy," Randy said.

The boys all laughed at what Randy said. Even though he didn't say anything about sex, they knew what he meant.

"I'm very lucky, Kim has never used sex to get what she wanted," Tom said. "Not when she was serious about it anyway."

"Yeah, but I'll bet you don't act like an asshole. God knows I have," Randy said.

"If it upsets Fran, don't do it anymore," Jack said.

"I'm trying, believe me, I'm trying. I told you guys how jealous I used to get. At least I'm getting better about that," Randy said.

Brad laughed and said, "You won't last around us if you get jealous, Randy. That's something we've all overcome. We have too much fun with the girls to get all bent out of shape if someone says something or looks at our girlfriends."

"I've noticed, Brad. You guys have really helped me when it comes to that," Randy said.

"We're over our first waypoint. Someone tell the girls they can start fishing," Jack said. He slowed the boat and turned so he was on course.

Tom went out on the sundeck. Hanging over the rail, he said, "We're there, you can put the lines in."

"Thanks, Tom. We're on it," Kim yelled back.

Kim, Kathy, and Molly took the port side of the boat. Jenny, Sally, and Fran took the starboard side. The girls deployed the teasers, placing the rods in the holders in the top rail. Once the teasers were dancing in the water, they lowered the outriggers. Jenny showed Fran how to attach the line to the releases. Fran followed Jenny's instructions. Within five minutes, the pattern was set. The girls stood back to admire their work.

Tom and Eddie went up to the tuna tower so they could spot for the girls. Eddie took over the operation of the boat from Jack. Tom stood facing aft, watching the water for a sign of a fish. The sun was breaking the horizon and the seas were calm. The seventy-five foot boat moved smoothly though the gentle one foot swells.

"It's going to be hotter than hell today," Eddie said. "There isn't a cloud in the sky."

"I think I can deal with that. I'll bet it's freezing up north," Tom said.

"It's cold in March?" Eddie said.

"It sure can be. I can remember a few big snowstorms in March. By mid May it's usually nice though," Tom said.

"We're usually in the eighties or nineties by mid May," Eddie said.

"Don't rub it in."

Eddie chuckled. He changed the speed of the boat in hopes of attracting a dolphin or wahoo. Tom kept watch as he gazed over the open water. He looked forward occasionally, but most of the time he watched the teasers. Picking up the binoculars, Tom searched the water. He thought he saw something and he was right. Ahead of the boat, a flock of seabirds was diving into the water.

"We have birds ahead," Tom said as he handed the binoculars to Eddie. Tom pointed so Eddie could locate the flock of birds.

"We'll head that way," Eddie said. He picked up the microphone for the intercom and called down to the cockpit. After telling Kathy about the birds, he placed the microphone back in the holder.

Eddie trolled over the water the birds were diving in. Tom watched behind the boat, searching for the sign of a fish. He could see the dark bait-ball beneath the surface. Nudging Eddie, Tom pointed it out.

"The larger fish herd the baitfish into a large group. A bait-ball. Then they feed on the fringes. We try to make our lures look like a hurt fish," Eddie said.

Kim screeched as one of the rods went off. Tom watched her grab the rod from the holder. Kim let the fish take line until it hooked itself. Once the fish began stripping line from the reel, Kim handed the rod to Fran.

Tom looked at the sundeck. Jack, Brad, and Randy stood at the rail, watching Fran fight the fish. "I couldn't tell what it is," Tom called down.

Looking up, Randy said, "It doesn't matter to Fran. She just wanted to catch another fish."

Jenny gaffed the dolphin when Fran brought it along the starboard side. With Jenny's help, Fran held the fish so Randy and the others could see it.

"Great job, Fran," Randy called down to her. Fran smiled, giggling at her accomplishment.

The girls reset the lines. They rinsed down the cockpit after putting the fish in the hold.

"Jack, Fran noticed something. She told me that Sally's necklace looked like it couldn't be removed," Randy said.

Smiling, Jack said, "It can't be removed. It isn't a necklace, it's a collar."

Randy looked at Jack. He shrugged his shoulders. Jack and Brad chuckled. Smiling, Jack told Randy about his relationship with Sally.

"I've heard about things like that, but never met anyone who had that kind of relationship," Randy said. "So, Sally will do whatever you tell her to do?"

Jack nodded. He leaned over the rail and said, "Sally, get us coffee."

Sally nodded. She went into the cabin, grabbed the carafe, and took it to the bridge. Sally filled the boys' cups. She stood close to Jack smiling. "Is there anything else you want?" Sally asked Jack.

"Yeah, show me what you're wearing under your top," Jack said.

Grinning, Sally lifted her shirt to expose her bra. She held her top until Jack told her to put it down.

Running her fingertips over her gold collar, Sally said, "Is there anything else?"

"No, thanks for the coffee, Sweetie," Jack said.

Sally nodded. She looked at Randy and said, "I do what Jack tells me to do. He owns me. Jack also loves me and I love him." Turning around, Sally walked away.

Randy shook his head. "That's wild."

"Don't take our relationship the wrong way, Randy. Sally doesn't do anything she doesn't want to do," Jack said. "She is one of the strongest girls you'll ever meet. How many people do you know that will do what they want without any concern for how others feel about it?"

"Um, that would be none. I think everyone I know, or should I say knew, do what they think other people want them to do," Randy said.

"I had a little trouble accepting their relationship at first, but now I don't. Jack is right; Sally is a strong willed girl. She knows what she wants and doesn't hesitate in getting it," Brad said.

"I guess that includes who she showers with," Randy said.

Jack and Brad laughed. "I guess Fran told you about finding Sally and me in the shower this morning," Brad said.

Randy nodded. "Yeah, she told me. A few days ago, I would have gone off if I even thought about Fran doing something like that. Now I find it interesting. I guess all of you are very carefree about things like that."

"That's because it's about having fun. We like to have fun without worrying about someone trying to steal our girlfriends. Once you realize there is a difference between nudity, sex, and love, you can have a blast," Brad said. He glanced at Jack. "You also get to discover things you never thought about."

"You don't have to answer me, but what about sex? Do any of you ever-you know?" Randy said.

"We have, Randy. As Brad said, no one is worried about it. I love Sally. I also love seeing her have fun," Jack said.

Nodding, Randy said, "Yeah, I see what you mean. It was cool seeing Fran having fun sunning with the girls. It was also fun skinny-dipping with all of you. I don't know if I could handle it if Fran wanted to have sex with someone else though."

"That's something only you and Fran can decide. I'd guess most people aren't able to do some of the things we do together. We talk about everything so no one does anything they don't want to do," Jack said.

The boys heard shouting from the cockpit. Looking down, they saw Kim fighting a fish. Molly stood near Kim, urging her on. Kim managed to get the fish close enough for Kathy to see how large it was.

"That's kind of small. We should let it go," Kathy said.

"Okay, I'll pull it to the transom door," Kim said as she moved across the stern to the starboard side. Kathy opened the door so she could pull the fish into the cockpit. She removed the hook and slid the small dolphin back into the water.

"Do you guys want to fish?" Jenny said as she looked up at Brad, Jack, and Randy.

"Maybe later, we're having fun watching you guys," Randy said. "That's okay, isn't it?" he said to Jack and Brad.

Laughing, Jack and Brad nodded. They pulled deck chairs close to the rail so they could sit while watching the girls.

* * * *

"Laura, stop cleaning the room. They have maids for that," Marge said as she finished packing her suitcase.

"I know, but I hate seeing this room so messy," Laura replied. She finished straightening the end table next to the bed.

"We should grab a bite to eat before we leave. I want one of those grouper sandwiches," Anne said.

"Sounds good to me, Anne. I think I will have the shrimp salad," Ellen said.

The five women finished packing their bags. Don, Mark, Harry, Joel, and Jack Waters had left a few minutes earlier to catch their flight back to West Palm. The women would meet the plane for their trip home in a couple hours.

Marge called for the bell captain to get the luggage. When the man arrived, he piled the suitcases on a cart. Anne told the bell captain they would call for a car after lunch. She gave the man a tip, asking him to keep an eye on their luggage.

The women went to the patio. They found a table and sat down for lunch.

"This has been wonderful. I can't thank you enough for inviting me," Laura said.

"No problem, we enjoyed having you with us," Sarah said.

"I guess I have to start looking for a job now," Laura said.

"Didn't Joel tell you that you didn't have to work?" Ellen said.

"Yes, but I want to work. I wouldn't feel right having Joel take care of Molly and me. Besides, I love working," Laura said.

"What are you going to look for?" Sarah asked.

"I don't know yet. If I could, I would love to find another job like the one I had. Domestic work is what I really like to do. I didn't mind taking care of Mrs. Caldwell, but I would take a job that didn't include caring for anyone too," Laura said.

"What does Joel think about you taking a job cleaning houses?" Anne said.

Chuckling, Laura said, "It isn't up to him. If he doesn't like me because of what I love doing, maybe we aren't meant for one another. I don't think domestic work is degrading, not to me. Some people don't like taking care of a house-I do."

The server brought the women's food to the table. She refreshed their beverages, checked to make sure they were set, and left. Anne, Marge, Ellen, Sarah, and Laura began eating. They shared tastes of each other's meals, complementing the food.

"Did Joel say anything about what we all did together?" Marge asked.

Laura giggled. She covered her mouth with her hand. "He said he loved it! I loved it too. I have always wondered what an orgy would be like and now I know."

"Did you know Joel had bisexual tendencies?" Anne said.

"No, not until we talked about it. It doesn't bother me. I would be a hypocrite if it did. Frankly, I found it very exciting," Laura said.

Laughing, Anne said, "So did Marc."

"I'm going to miss you and Marge when you go back to Michigan. It isn't easy for me to make friends. Now I have four new friends that I wouldn't trade for the world." Laura chuckled. "Make that eight new friends. Besides that, Molly hasn't been this happy before. I can't tell you how much joy it brings me seeing her with your kids."

"We all feel that way, don't we?" Ellen said. The other woman nodded. "I hope you and Molly aren't strangers when we get back. You know you're always welcome to come over anytime you want to. So is Molly. Although I don't think that will be a problem. She is smitten with Eddie and Kathy."

"I'd say Molly is head over heels in love with Eddie and Kathy," Sarah said.

"Yeah, that she is," Laura said with a smile. "She doesn't talk about many other things. Molly has never been part of anything before. She never joined any of the clubs at school or really had a group of friends she hung around. Penny was her closest friend. When she dated Lenny, she and Penny didn't seem that close."

"That won't be a problem as long as Molly is dating Eddie and Kathy. Our kids don't do much without each other. I have a feeling the group is going to get larger when Jack, Tom, Sally, and Kim move down here," Marge said.

"When are they coming down?" Sarah asked.

"They would stay here if they had their way, but they have to finish school. Even though they are home-schooled, they have to complete the required number of days. They also have to take exams to prove they are ready to go into the next grade," Anne said.

"Don and Marc have things they have to take care of in Michigan so we don't know how soon we'll move down here. Marge and I may come down with the kids before Don and Marc," Anne said.

"Let us know if we can help you. Jack, Tom, Kim, and Sally could stay with us for a few weeks if they want to move after school is out," Ellen said.

"That goes for me too. We have a spare room," Sarah said.

"Thanks, we'll think about it. I know that Tomiko is ready for delivery. I also know the kids will want to be here for that," Marge said.

"Our kids are going to be busy with school too. They have their junior prom coming the first week of May. They get out for good the Friday before Memorial Day," Ellen said. "I heard the boy finally asked the girls to go to the prom. Jenny told me Kim prodded them to ask."

"Kathy told me the same thing. I guess Eddie and Brad assumed the girls would be going with them," Sarah said.

"It looks like we'll be going shopping soon. The girls will need dresses for the prom," Laura said. "Hopefully, I'll have found a job before then."

The women finished their lunches. Marge paid the check, telling the others Don insisted. They went to the pool, ordered cocktails and sat down to wait until it was time to head to the airport.

* * * *

The turbo-prop plane came in for a gentle landing. The pilot taxied to the gate, shutting down the engines. Don, Marc, Harry, Joel, and Jack Waters deplaned. They walked into the terminal to wait for their luggage.

"The women will be waiting at the airport," Don told the pilot. "I'll call them to give them your ETA."

"Thanks, Mr. Graham. We should be back here in three hours," The pilot said.

The men went into the bar to wait for the women. They ordered drinks from the cute waitress that came to the table.

"When are you heading back up north?" Harry asked.

"Tomorrow afternoon. The kids need to get back to school," Don said.

"Will you be back soon? I have a yacht that belongs to you," Harry said with a chuckle. "No rush, I have room for her."

"I'm not sure when the kids will be back. They have a lot of school to catch up on. It may be after they finish before they come back. If you have to get Tomiko out of your yard, you can have Jeri take her to my house," Don said.

Shaking his head, Harry said, "No, I'll keep her until they get back. I think they will want to be on her when we deliver Tomiko."

"Our kids are champing at the bit to move down here. I think they would blow off school if we'd let them," Marc said. "We have several things we have to attend to before we're ready to move."

"How are things going on your development?" Jack Waters asked.

"The contractor said everything is progressing on schedule. He said we should be ready to begin building houses by mid June. The utilities should be finished by then. I never knew how much was involved in building a subdivision," Don said.

"We hope to have a model built before June so we can start taking orders," Marc said.

"The kids sure seemed to have a good time at the tournament. I can't believe they won first place," Joel said.

"It doesn't surprise me. They worked very hard to win. They're successful because they don't follow the others. Eddie, Brad, Jenny, and Kathy have gone their own way since they began fishing," Jack Waters said.

"I have to say I'm impressed with all of them. Jack, Tom, Sally, and Kim sure seem to fit in," Joel said.

"Our kids know they have a lot to learn, Joel," Marc said.

"Don't we all? I know that the more time I spend with this group, the more I learn. It was hard for me to accept the relationship Molly has with Eddie and Kathy, but now I can see it's healthy. I know Molly isn't my daughter, but I hope she'll be my step daughter soon," Joel said.

"Has Laura told you when you two are getting married yet?" Harry asked.

Chuckling, Joel said, "No, she won't talk about it until she finds a new job. I'm going to see what I can do to help her."

"Will you move into her house once you're married?" Jack Waters said.

"I'm not sure what we'll do. My condominium is too small for a family. I plan to leave that up to Laura," Joel replied.

All of the men laughed. "That sounds like a good idea, Joel," Harry said.

The men ordered another drink. They talked about the trip, commenting on how much fun they had while in the Bahamas.

The plane returned with the woman. The men went out to meet the plane and help with the luggage. When the women stepped off the plane, they all hugged their respective mates. The group stood on the tarmac talking about their flights for a few minutes. Then they headed for the cars. Don, Marge, Anne, and Marc took one of the cars. The rest of the group got into Harry's van.

Marge and Anne sat in the backseat after the men loaded the luggage.

"Honey, how would you feel about having a housekeeper down here?" Marge said as Don headed for the house.

"That's fine with me, Marge. I've been trying to convince you and Anne to let Marc and I hire someone to take care of our house in Michigan," Don said. He smiled at his wife. "Why do I feel as if you have something up your sleeve?"

Anne began chuckling. She put her hand on Marge's leg. "Are you thinking what I think you are?"

"Would someone mind telling me what is going on here," Marc said.

"I was thinking we could use someone to take care of the house. Laura mentioned that if she could do what she really wanted, she would do domestic work. So, I was thinking we could offer her a job," Marge said.

"I agree with Marge. Not only could she clean, Laura could bake for us occasionally. That, and she would be great to have at the house when we're gone and the kids are there," Anne said.

"Do you think she would want to work for friends?" Marc said.

"I don't know, but we can certainly ask her," Marge said.

The two couples talked about the possibility of having Laura work for them. The longer they talked, the more appealing the idea became. By the time they reached the house, Marge and Anne was excited.

Don and Marc carried their bags into the house with the help of the other men. Don mixed everyone a drink and they all went out to the patio. They sat around one of the tables sipping their drinks and talking about the trip back.

"Laura, Marge and I would like to talk to you for a moment if we could," Anne said.

Shrugging her shoulders, Laura said, "What is it?"

"Um, maybe it would be better if we went inside," Marge said.

Laura got up along with Marge and Anne. Then went into the house and sat in the kitchen.

"Laura, Anne and I know you want to find a job. We also know what you would like to do. We want to offer you a job taking care of our house," Marge said.

"We'll understand if you're uncomfortable working for us," Anne said.

Laura grinned at the two women. "I wouldn't be the least bit uncomfortable working for you. Even though we're friends, I feel I can do a great job for you. I won't give you a reason to have to be upset with me."

"Does that mean you're interested?" Marge said.

"Yes, I'm very interested. I assume it includes taking care of the guest house too," Laura said.

"No, that's the kids' responsibility. They don't need a housekeeper," Anne said.

"When do I start?" Laura said.

"You haven't asked how much we're willing to pay you," Marge said.

"I know you'll be fair. I made five hundred a week working for Mrs. Caldwell. As long as it's something close to that, I'll be fine," Laura said.

Marge and Anne smiled. They nodded, got up and gave Laura a hug. "Let's go outside," Marge said.

The three women went outside. Laura sat on Joel's lap, gave him and kiss and said, "Honey, I'm employed."

"You are? What are you going to be doing?" Joel said.

"I'm the new housekeeper for Marge and Anne. I'm going to be taking care of this place," Laura said.

Joel's smile faded. He helped Laura off his lap. Standing up, Joel said, "Can we talk for a minute?"

Joel led Laura down near the pool. They sat on two lounge chairs. Joel faced Laura, looking into her eyes.

"Laura, are you sure this is what you want to do? I'm sure we could find something in an office somewhere," Joel said.

"What's the matter, Joel? Don't you want your girlfriend to do domestic work? Do you think it's beneath you?" Laura said. "Before you answer, I want you to know that this is what I want to do. I like the work and I'm very good at it."

Joel didn't know what to say. He thought about his response carefully. After a moment, Joel said, "Laura, if this is what you want, I guess its fine with me. I just think you're capable of something better."

"I think you'd make a good accountant," Laura said.

"Maybe, but I like being an attorney," Joel said. He realized what he said and started to chuckle. "Okay, touch�. Just make sure you're the best damn housekeeper there is."

"Honey, I already know I am," Laura said. "I don't want this to be something that comes between us, Joel. I know having a housekeeper as your wife isn't high on your list, but it's what I want. Please try to understand."

"Wife? I thought I was your boyfriend."

Giggling, Laura said, "I told you I wouldn't marry you until I found work. I have a job now. What's the matter, don't you want to marry me anymore?"

Joel jumped up. He snatched Laura into his arms. Hugging her, Joel began kissing her mouth. He swung her around while telling Laura he loved her.

"I guess things are going well for them," Ellen said.

"Yup, and it looks like we have a housekeeper," Anne said. "Don, we have to figure out how much we're going to pay Laura. She made five hundred dollars a week at her last job."

"We'll give her six hundred and benefits if she agrees to bake for us too," Don said.

Joel and Laura came back to the table. They sat down, taking a sip of their drinks.

"So, are you gainfully employed?" Sarah asked.

"I am if the offer still stands," Laura said.

"We want to offer you the job, Laura. If you'll accept six hundred a week with benefits we have a deal. Oh, by the way, you'll have to bake for us too," Don said.

Laura's eyes opened wide. She grinned as she nodded her head. Getting up, Laura gave each of her new employers a kiss and hug.

"You have made me very happy," Laura said while hugging Anne and Marge. Tears filled her eyes, rolling down her cheeks. "Whatever you need around here, I'll do it. I'll take care of the pool, the cabana, and the other building. If you want me to clean the guesthouse, I will. As for baking, you guys are going to need a gym."

Laura sat down. She took Joel's hand, holding it tightly. "So, when are you going to ask me to marry you?"

"I've been asking you to marry me," Joel stated.

"Well, you better think about asking me again," Laura said.

"What, here? Now?" Joel said. When Laura grinned, Joel got up and went into the house. He came back a few moments later.

"For a moment, I thought you ran away," Laura said.

Joel shook his head. He knelt in front of Laura, looking up into her eyes. "Laura Durham, will you marry me?" Joel said while holding her hand.

"Yes, Joel, I'll marry you. Just name the time and place," Laura said.

Joel slipped a diamond ring on Laura's finger. She looked at the ring and began crying. Sliding out of her chair, Laura hugged Joel. She kissed him for a moment before looking over his shoulder at the engagement ring.

"The ring is beautiful, Darling. I love it-I love you," Laura said. "How long have you had the ring?

"I bought it a few weeks ago. I've been carrying it around hoping you'd say yes," Joel said.

Smiling as she looked at the ring, Laura said, "I told you I would marry you when I found work. You could have given me the ring before now you know."

"I wanted to wait until you were sure. Now I think you are," Joel said. He gave Laura a tender kiss. "I love you. I plan on making you very happy."

"You already have, Joel. I love you too," Laura said.

The rest of the group began clapping. They all congratulated Laura and Joel. Laura received kisses. The men shook Joel's hand, but the women kissed and hugged him.

"You can have your reception here if you'd like," Don said. "I love throwing parties."

Looking at Don, Laura said, "Do I have to clean up after my reception?"

Everyone laughed. Don shook his head and said, "No, you don't have to clean up after your reception, Laura."

Don went inside to get more drinks. The group toasted Laura and Joel, wishing them well. The women gathered around another table to begin planning the wedding.

"Are you okay with us offering Laura a job?" Don asked Joel.

"Yes I'm fine with it. It took a few moments for me to get used to the idea, but if it's what Laura wants, I'll accept it," Joel said.

"It's what she knows and likes, Joel," Harry said. "What the hell is the sense in doing a job you don't like?"

"Yeah I know. I was thinking more about me than Laura," Joel said.

A loud boom disrupted the joyous mood. The group looked in the direction of the noise to see a large plume of smoke rising from the house next to the property. Don ran inside to call the fire department.

"What was that?" Jeri asked as she and April ran into the yard.

"Something exploded next door. Don is calling for help," Marc said.

The group watched the smoke thicken. Flames began to dance above the wall and foliage that separated the two yards. Don came out to watch with the others. A few moments later, the sound of sirens pierced the quiet area.

Don and the others walked out to the road. They could see the fully engulfed house as the fire spread.

"There isn't anyone home. I haven't seen the owners for several weeks," April said.

The fire trucks pulled into the driveway. Fire fighters piled out, preparing to fight the blaze. They connected a hose to the closest hydrant. Grabbing hoses, the fire fighters made their way toward the house.

It took an hour and a half to douse the flames. A fireboat sat in the canal, shooting water onto the remainder of the structure. Jeri went into the house, returning with bottled water. She offered the cold water to the fire fighters.

"What happened?" Don asked the fire chief.

"We don't know yet, but things don't look right. There was a strong smell of gasoline. The fire spread very quickly so we will do an investigation," the fire chief said. "Have any of you seen anyone suspicious around here?"

"No, we haven't. It's hard to see the house from ours, but we haven't seen anyone around for several weeks," April said.

"Do you know the owners?" the fire chief asked.

"No, we never met them. They kept to themselves," Jeri said.

"Okay, I'll find out who they are. In the meantime, stay away from the house," the fire chief said.

"Thanks for the information. I'm glad it didn't spread to our house," Don said.

The group watched the fire fighters packing up their equipment. After a few minutes, they all went back to the patio.

"How are things coming with the yacht?" Anne asked Jeri and April.

"We're getting very close. April and I have to review a few more resumes. We plan to keep interviewing for crewmembers. Have you decided when the boat will be delivered?" Jeri said.

"We're going to wait until the kids can be here, Jeri. They will want to be there," Marge said. "Harry said we can keep the yacht at his boatyard until then."

"Oh, I almost forgot to tell you because of all the excitement. Laura is going to work here. She will be taking care of the house for us," Marge said.

"That's great," April said. She giggled and smiled at Laura. "Are you going to bake too?"

"Yes, I plan to bake. I will take care of your apartment for you if you'd like me to," Laura said. "I will have plenty of time and I like to be busy."

Jeri looked at April. The two girls shrugged their shoulders. "That would be nice, Laura. That is as long as Marge and Anne don't mind. Hopefully, we won't be here too much. We hope to be out on charters."

"Okay, I'll plan on cleaning your place too. Did you see what I got today? Joel and I are getting married," Laura said as she held out her left hand.

"Wow, that's beautiful. Congratulations to both of you. When is the wedding?" April said.

"Tomorrow if I had my way," Joel said. Everyone laughed at what he said. "We haven't set a date yet, but I hope it will be soon."

"I'd love a June wedding. I don't know if we can put it together that quickly though," Laura said.

"Sure we can. Ellen and I will help you. Marge and Anne will help when they get down here from Michigan," Sarah said.

The women sat at one of the tables. They talked about the wedding, making plans for the upcoming event. The men went inside to get fresh drinks.

"Joel, do you know anyone that can look into who owns the house next door? I am concerned there may be an arsonist in the area," Don said.

"Yes, I know a few people that can help me. A friend of mine works for the county," Joel said. "He can see if there are any reports of suspicious fires in the area."

"Good. Keep me informed," Don said.

The group of men went outside. They saw Jeri and April cleaning the pool. Marc walked to the pool to see why the two girls were cleaning it.

"What's up? Don't we have a service to clean the pool?" Marc asked.

"Yes, but they won't be here for a few days. There is a lot ash in the pool so we're cleaning it. April and I don't mind," Jeri said.

"Is there anything you two need? We're heading north tomorrow," Marc said.

"We have everything we need and more," April said. "You and Don are more than generous."

Smiling, Marc said, "We are entrusting the welfare of our children to you two. We want to make sure you don't lack anything you need. In a couple months, the kids are going to be moving down here. We hope that you'll keep an eye on them when we're not here."

"That goes without saying. Jeri and I will make sure they're safe, Marc. You know, they really don't need much supervision. They carry themselves better than many of the adults we know," April said.

"I know, but they are still young. We don't worry about them getting into trouble, but we feel they are too young to live down here without someone watching over them," Marc said. "We trust you two. Don, Marge, Anne, and I will feel better knowing you're watching out for them. Thanks."

April and Jeri went back to cleaning the pool. Marc sat watching them. He thought about how it would be once the families made the move to Florida. The past months were a whirlwind. The families went from blue-collar middle class to wealthy overnight. At times, it was more than Marc could comprehend. Fortunately, Don managed to keep the two families grounded in reality. He was the leader of the group, something no one questioned. Don always asked for the other's opinions, but he made the majority of the major decisions.

"Are you okay?" Anne said as she took the lounge next to Marc.

"I'm fine, Sweetie. I'm just sitting here thinking about the past few months," Marc said.

"It's been quite a ride, hasn't it?" Anne said.

"No shit! Eight months ago, we were trying to make ends meet. Now we spend money as if it will never end. I know your brother knows what he's doing, but sometimes I worry about being broke again."

"Honey, as long as I have you, I don't care if we're rich or broke. We did fine before," Anne said.

Marc chuckled. "I don't think we're going to be broke anytime soon. The last time Don and I went over the business plan for the subdivision things looked great. If everything works out as planned, we stand to make over twenty million. Don and I are looking into developing some retail property around the sub. We put in an offer on two fifteen acre parcels. We're thinking about putting in strip malls."

Anne put her hand on Marc's arm. "I know you and Don will do great. Marge and I have all the confidence in the world in you two."

"Most of it is Don you know. He is the one that keeps all of us on the straight and narrow. Your brother has a knack for foreseeing opportunities. I would have never thought about building a subdivision or buying a golf course."

Smiling, Anne said, "Don't short yourself, Marc. After all, wasn't it your idea to invest in a few of those stocks we made a killing on when we bought and sold them?"

"Yeah, I guess it was. I talked with Sam, and he helped me, but I did the research," Marc said. "I just worry that you think I'm�"

"Honey, I love you! I think you're just as smart as my brother is. This is a family. We're all in this together. There isn't one of us that is more important than the other."

"That's not entirely true, Anne. Don is the leader of our families-he always has been. Don will always be the head of our families. I don't mind at all. We need the structure if we're going to live the way we've decided," Marc said.

Anne got up. She sat on Marc's lap, putting her arms around his neck. They began kissing each other while hugging. Anne moved her mouth to Marc's ear. She sucked on his earlobe for a moment.

"I think you should take me inside and make love to me," Anne said.

Marc chuckled. Anne got off his lap so he could stand up. Marc put his arms around Anne, picked her up, and put her over his shoulder. She giggled, kicking her legs. When Marc carried Anne past the others, she squealed and said, "I'm getting laid!"

The rest of the group laughed as they watched the couple disappear into the house.

* * * *

"This is the life, isn't it?" Tom said to Eddie.

"Yeah it is! I've had a blast the last few days. I'm glad you guys love to fish as much as we do," Eddie said.

The two boys stood watch from the tuna tower. They kept the boat on course over the area the birds dove for baitfish. Fran had caught two fish, a dolphin and a wahoo. Tom and Eddie heard her screeching while fighting the fish.

"I think Molly has taken to you, Tom," Eddie said.

Tom jerked his head around, looking at Eddie. "Um, I haven't done anything, Eddie."

Placing his hand on Tom's shoulder, Eddie chuckled. "Hey, don't worry, I think it's great."

"Just as long as you know I'm not trying to steal your girlfriend from you and Kathy."

"Shit, Tom, we don't own Molly. We love her. Kathy and I want Molly to be happy. As far as we're concerned, that's most important. We told you about what happened to her. Molly was smarting from the break up with her ex-boyfriend. Kathy and I wanted to let her know she had friends. Things just progressed from there."

"I like Molly. I like all you guys. Kim keeps telling me Molly is falling for me. I don't really think so."

"Molly is falling for you, but don't worry, she won't do anything that will come between you and Kim," Eddie said. "She knows how you two feel about each other."

"You know I wouldn't do anything to hurt either of them, don't you?" Tom said.

"If you ask me, the only way you're going to hurt Molly is by ignoring her. One of these days, the five of us should get together. I could use some help," Eddie said with a chuckle.

"I know Kim would enjoy it. She told me she would like to do something like that with you guys." Tom laughed. "It's kind of weird talking like this, isn't it?"

"Weird? No, I don't think it's weird at all. How many people can talk about sharing their girlfriends without getting pissed? Tom, I think it's great that we've all become close enough to talk openly," Eddie said.

"I agree; it is great that we can talk. I can't wait until we move down here."

"Hey, do you guys want a break?" Kim said over the intercom. "We're ready to let you fish for a while."

Eddie grabbed the microphone. "Sure, send someone up to take over."

A few moments later, Kathy and Kim stood at the base of the ladder to the tuna tower. Tom came down first. Kathy went up to take over at the helm.

"Having fun?" Tom said as he gave Kim a hug.

"I'm having a blast! How about you? Are you enjoying yourself too?" Kim said.

"You know I am." Tom kissed Kim before releasing her.

Eddie came down. He stepped off the ladder so Kim could go up. "You should wear a skirt," Eddie said to Kim as she ascended the ladder.

Kim stopped. Looking down, she said, "You'd love that, wouldn't you?"

"Hell yeah, what guy in his right mind wouldn't like looking up your skirt?" Eddie said.

Giggling, Kim pulled her sweatpants down enough for Eddie and Tom to see one of her butt cheeks. She wiggled her bottom, pulled up her pants, and finished climbing the ladder. When she reached the platform, Kim looked over the railing. She lifted her top, exposing her braless breasts.

"What was that all about?" Kathy said when Kim turned around.

"I was just teasing the boys," Kim said.

"That's a good way to get laid," Kathy said with a chuckle.

"Cool, I'll have to do it more often then," Kim replied with a giggle.

"You're a girl after my own heart, Kim. I love teasing the boys," Kathy said.

"Me too! Have you looked for a dress for the junior prom yet?"

"No, not yet. Jenny, Molly, and I will start shopping this week. I think Jenny's mom will be able to help us find a good deal," Kathy said.

"It's getting warm. I wish I had my bikini up here," Kim said.

"Just go topless. I won't mind," Kathy said with a grin.

Kim moved behind Kathy. Reaching around her body, she put her hands over Kathy's breasts. Kim leaned forward, kissing Kathy's neck. "I won't mind if you take your top off either."

Giggling, Kathy raised her arms. Kim pulled her top off, returning her hands to Kathy's breasts. "Mmmm, that's much better," Kim said.

Kim removed her top. She took Kathy's shirt, went to the rail and looked down. Jenny, Fran, Molly, and Sally sat on the sundeck watching the boys in the cockpit. "Hey, one of you, catch these for me," Kim said. Fran looked up and Kim dropped the two shirts. Fran giggled as she caught the tops.

"Is that it or are you going to throw down your pants too?" Fran said as she looked up at Kim.

Grinning, Kim stepped out of her boat shoes. She shucked her sweatpants, tossing them down to Fran. Kim stood at the rail in her pink bikini panties. "Want Kathy's pants too?" Kim said.

By this time, everyone had their eyes trained on the tuna tower. Kim helped Kathy out of her sweatpants and tossed them down to Fran. The two girls giggled as they wiggled their butts. Sally, Molly, Jenny, and Fran laughed. The boys in the cockpit cheered.

"You are so bad, Kim," Kathy said.

"Who me? I'm just having fun," Kim replied. She grinned at Kathy. "You don't seem to mind."

Kathy shook her head. "No, this is fun." She reached out, running her hand over Kim's exposed breast. "Mmmm, so is this."

"Mine aren't as big as Molly's," Kim said.

"You have nice boobs." Kathy leaned over, kissing one of Kim's breasts. Kathy licked Kim's nipple and giggled. "They taste good too."

Kim returned the act. Kathy kept one hand on the wheel, watching where she was going, while holding Kim to her breast with the other hand. Kim nipped Kathy's nipple before standing up again.

The two girls giggled. Kathy faced forward while Kim faced aft. "You are really open, aren't you, Kim?"

"Yeah, I guess so. I like fooling around with you. I hope you don't mind," Kim said as she giggled.

"You know I don't! I believe in equality when it comes to sex and fun," Kathy said.

"I like girls, but I don't think I feel the same as you do. For me, it's about sex and getting off. I know you love Molly and that your relationship is more than just sex," Kim said.

"You're right about that. I love Eddie the same way though. It's weird, isn't it?" Kathy said.

Kim shook her head. She was about to respond, but she saw a dark shadow following one of the teasers. Pointing, Kim yelled, "There's a fish following the starboard teaser-the one on the outrigger!"

Brad spotted the fish. He grabbed a pitch rod and handed it to Randy. "Here you go, catch that fish," Brad said.

Randy fed the bait to the fish while Brad tended to the teaser. When the fish took the bait, Brad told Randy to wait for a moment. The line tightened so Randy began reeling. The fish made the first of several hard runs.

On the sundeck, Fran bounced on the balls of her feet. Like Kim and Kathy, the rest of the girls were wearing nothing but their panties. Fran's breasts jiggled as she moved. She yelled down to Randy, encouraging him. Randy didn't look up. He paid attention to the fish he was fighting.

"This feels like a nice one," Randy said.

"It is really fighting hard, isn't it?" Brad said.

"No kidding!"

The fish made a jump. Randy stopped reeling for a moment to watch the large sailfish dancing across the surface. Brad told him not to allow the line to go slack.

"You might want to move to the chair, Randy. That fish is going to wear you out," Eddie said.

Brad and Eddie helped Randy get into the fighting chair. They stood on either side of Randy, clipping the reel to the straps. Once he settled in, Randy reeled down on the fish. "Use your legs," Brad said.

Randy listened to Brad's instructions. Tom ran into the cabin to get his camera. When Tom returned, he began shooting pictures of Randy. Turning around, Tom pointed his camera up at the sundeck. Sally, Jenny, Molly, and Fran posed for him. On the tuna tower, Kim and Kathy also posed. Tom adjusted his zoom so he framed Molly in the viewfinder. He took several shots of the grinning red head. Changing his angle, Tom zeroed in on Kim. He took a few pictures to add to his growing collection of photographs of his girlfriend. Even though Kim and Tom were cousins, he didn't let that interfere with his feelings.

Kim smiled at Tom. She knew he was taking her picture. Kim posed, placing one hand behind her head as she thrust her naked chest out. Tom lowered the camera. He smiled at Kim and mouthed, "I love you." Kim nodded knowingly.

Randy fought the fish to the stern of the boat. Jack and Eddie managed to get a hold of the leader and the fish's bill. Brad placed a tag in the back of the fish and then wrenched the hook from its mouth. Eddie pulled the fish to the starboard side. He held the sailfish's head underwater until it revived and then swan away.

"That was amazing! Thanks for letting me catch the sailfish," Randy said as he unclipped the reel and got out of the chair.

"We're glad you had fun," Eddie said.

"Why do you tag the fish when you're not in a tournament?" Randy asked.

"We record the tag information so the fish can be traced. There is a database online where you can look up the tag information. It lets you know where the fish had been caught before," Brad said.

"Have you ever caught a tagged fish?" Randy said.

"No, not yet. If we do, we'll look up the information. Fish migrate many miles. The next time this fish is caught, it may be a thousand miles from here," Brad said.

"I wish Fran had captured that on tape. I didn't think about it until now," Randy said.

"We have the cockpit cameras on. It was recorded," Eddie said.

"Great, you'll have to send me a copy," Randy said.

"Naw, you can look at it when you and Fran come back to show us the edited tape you guys took," Brad said.

"That'll work for me," Randy said. "Are you guys serious about producing your own show?"

"I think it's a good idea. Sally is the one to ask about that. She seems to have the idea as well as the passion," Jack said.

"You know damn well that Sally wants to do it, Jack. I happen to agree with her. It's a great idea. Not so much for the money though. I love the idea of promoting the sport," Brad said.

"You'll have to find sponsors to get the program aired," Randy said.

"We'll let Sally handle that part of it. She can be very resourceful when she puts her mind to it," Tom said. "My sister has a way of getting what she wants."

"You don't have to tell me!" Jack said with a chuckle.

"Hey, let's go swimming before lunch," Jenny called down to the boys. She turned around, looking up at the tuna tower. "Kathy, find a place we can swim after the guys pull the lines."

"Will do, Jen. There's an island over there," Kathy said as she pointed at one of the small islands that made up the Bahamas.

Kathy turned her attention to the cockpit. She watched the boys clearing the lines. Kim stood next to Kathy watching the action below. A few moments later, Eddie and Tom raised the outriggers. They fastened the clamps to hold them in place. Tom looked up, waving at Kim and Kathy.

"I guess that means we're ready to go," Kathy said. She turned around, setting a course to the small sandy island. When the boat was in five feet of water, Kathy lowered the anchor.

Kim and Kathy went down to the sundeck. "We're here," Kathy said. "I'm ready to take a dip."

The girls went down to the cockpit. They shed their panties while the boys began stripping. Jenny opened the transom door so they could jump into the crystal clear ocean. One by one, the girls jumped in. They swam toward the island, stopping when they could stand up. The boys dived in, swimming over to the girls.

Randy moved close to Fran. He put his arms around her, pulling her close. "Did you see me fighting that sailfish?" Randy said.

"I did. You looked like you were having fun," Fran said as she pressed her chest against Randy's chest.

"I had fun too. I just love how carefree the girls are," Fran said. "Where is the green monster?"

Randy laughed. He kissed Fran and then said, "I tossed him overboard. The green monster is gone for good."

"I hope so, Baby. Things are so much better now. It's funny, but we have learned about ourselves from a bunch of kids," Fran said.

"Yeah, I know we have. It's still hard for me to think of them as kids," Randy said. "Hey, we're not that much older than they are you know. We're only twenty two."

"We'll be twenty three in a few months, Baby," Fran said.

"So what, we're still not that much older," Randy said.

Fran and Randy swam over to where the rest of the group stood in waist deep water. Sally giggled as she splashed water at Fran and Randy. Randy splashed back. The group began horsing around. Jack dunked Jenny while Brad tossed Sally. After a few minutes, they stopped to rest.

"I'm hungry," Molly said. "Let's go back to the boat. I'll fix lunch."

"I'll help you, Molly," Kim said.

They swam to the boat. The girls climbed out, followed by the boys. Sally giggled, telling the boys they waited so they could see the girls' butts.

"Is that a problem?" Tom said.

"No, you know I love it," Sally replied.

The group rinsed the saltwater from their bodies. Jenny and Sally passed out towels while Eddie and Tom retrieved the deck chairs. Once they were dry, Kim and Molly went into the cabin to make lunch.

"We should head for home," Eddie said after lunch. "I want to get back before dark."

"Can't we just stay here for a few more days?" Kim said. "When we get back, we have to go home to Michigan."

"I don't care, but I think your parents would have a problem with it," Eddie said. "Besides, Randy and Fran have to get back so they can go to New York."

"Yeah, I know they would. I'm having a great time and I don't want it to end," Kim said.

"We'll be back before you know it," Jack said.

The group gathered their clothes. They went below to put on shorts and tee shirts for the ride back. Eddie and Tom went to the bridge, started the engines, and got ready to leave. Tom pulled the anchor so they could be on their way.

The girls sat on the sundeck enjoying the warm afternoon sun. The guys stayed in the enclosed flying bridge, watching ahead of the boat. They talked about the great time they had at the tournament. On the sundeck, the girls talked about the upcoming junior prom. Kathy, Jenny, and Molly told the other girls the style of dresses they wanted to wear.

Several hours later, Eddie turned into the inlet. He maneuvered the boat toward the house. When Eddie made the final turn into the channel that ran behind the house, Jack spotted the burnt out remains of the mansion next door.

"Holy shit, look at that!" Jack said. "I wonder what happened."

Eddie slowed the boat, holding his position in the channel. The group stared at the blackened walls of what once was a beautiful home. The girls stood on the sundeck, staring at the ruins. Eddie moved the boat to the seawall. Jack and Tom went down to tend the lines. They secured the boat to the pilings while Eddie shut it down.

The teens, along with Randy and Fran, left the boat. They walked to the house to see their parents and find out about the fire that destroyed the house next door.

"Hi, Dad, what happened?" Kim said as she gave her father a hug.

"We don't really know. We were sitting out here and heard a loud explosion. The next thing we knew, that place was up in flames," Don replied.

"Was anyone hurt?" Jack asked.

"No, there wasn't anyone home. The fire chief thinks the fire is suspicious. It may have been arson," Don said.

The group greeted their parents, sharing hugs. Fran and Randy stood aside, watching the interaction between the kids they'd spent the week with and the adults that made their fishing possible.

"I can see why the kids are the way they are. I don't think I was ever that close to my parents," Randy said.

"I know. It's wonderful, isn't it?" Fran replied as she slipped her arm around Randy.

Don walked up to Randy and Fran. He asked them if they had a good time and if they had everything they needed for the pilot.

"Yes, we have hours of tape to edit. I think we can get two shows out of what we have," Randy said. "As far as having a good time, we had a blast. We hate to leave."

"I'll have Jeri drive you to the airport. The boys can help you with your gear," Don said.

Don told Tom and Jack to help Randy and Fran. Eddie and Brad also helped carry the cases of equipment to the car. Once they loaded the gear, Randy and Fran went to the yard to say goodbye to everyone. Fran promised to keep in touch and send copies of the pilot to the teens. The teens walked Randy and Fran out to the car, waving as Jeri drove away.

When they went back to the patio, Molly went over to her mom. She babbled about the trip, telling her mom everything she did. Laura chuckled and reminded her daughter she was there too.

Joel came over. He put his arm around Laura, smiling at Molly's excitement. Laura finally put her hand up to silence her daughter.

"Molly, Joel asked me to marry him. I said yes," Laura said.

"I know, you told me that you guys were getting married when you found a job," Molly replied.

Chuckling, Laura lifted her left hand. She let her fingers dangle, showing off her new diamond ring. Molly gasped. She looked up at her mom's face and said, "When did you get that?" Molly took her mom's hand, pulling it close to get a better look at the ring.

"Joel gave it to me today. When we got back, he knelt and asked me to marry him. When I said yes, he went to his luggage to get the ring." Laura looked into Joel's eyes. "It seems he's been carrying it around for a couple weeks."

"So, I guess you decided not to wait until you found a job then," Molly said.

"No, I have a new job, Honey," Laura said.

"Really? Where are you working? When did you find out? I didn't know you were looking yet," Molly said rapid fire.

"I'm going to be working here. Marge and Anne hired me to take care of their house," Laura said.

Molly's mouth fell open. She looked at her mom, raising her eyebrows. It took a second for what Laura said to sink in. Molly thought about the fact her mom would be the housekeeper for her friends. She wasn't sure how she felt about it.

"Is there a problem with what I'll be doing?" Laura asked.

While Molly culled over her mother's question, Kim and Sally came over. They grabbed Molly and gave her a hug.

"Did your mom tell you she will be working here? I think it is so cool! You can come over all the time," Kim said.

"This is going to be great! I can't wait until we live here," Sally said.

Molly started to smile. She realized her fears that her friends would think less of her because her mom would be the housekeeper were unfounded. If anything, it looked as if it would strengthen their friendship.

"No, Mom, I think it's great. I'm happy if you are," Molly said.

"I am happy, Honey. I have a job doing what I enjoy," Laura said.

"When is the wedding?" Molly asked with a giggle.

"We're thinking about June, but probably July. There is so much to do to get ready," Laura said.

"I'll help you, Mom."

"Thanks, Molly. I'm going to need all the help I can get. Don said we could have the wedding here," Laura said.

Molly hugged her mom. She kissed Laura's cheek and said, "I love you, Mom."

Laura wrapped her arms around Molly. Tears formed in her eyes as she held her daughter as tightly as she could. "I love you too, Molly."

Molly moved away from her mom. She hugged Joel, smiling when he hugged her back. Looking up into his eyes, Molly said, "You're going to be my dad-aren't you?"

"You bet I am, Honey." Tears filled Joel's eyes too. He hugged Molly, kissing the top of her head. "I'll be very proud to have you as my daughter."

"Are you going to give me a brother?" Molly said. She fought the urge to giggle.

Laura laughed and said, "Honey, Joel and I haven't talked about having children."

"I know. I was just kidding," Molly said.

Sally giggled and said, "If you want a brother, I'll let you use mine."

The group went over to where the others sat around the tables. Molly sat on Eddie's lap. She told Eddie and Kathy what her mom said about the job.

Eddie smiled. He put his arms around Molly's waist, pulling her back to his chest. "We heard about it," Eddie said.

Don ordered pizza and salad. The group sat on the patio eating the food while they talked about the plans for the next day as well as the upcoming months. It was close to ten o'clock when Harry said it was time to go. He reminded his children they had school in the morning.

For the next half hour, the teens hugged and told each other goodbye. Kim, Sally, Kathy, Jenny, and Molly all agreed to call as often as they could. Kim and Sally made the other girls promise to send pictures of the junior prom.

Jack, Tom, Eddie, and Brad shook hands. Eddie and Brad assured Jack and Tom they would take care of cleaning the boat. Sally gave Brad a hug. She told him she couldn't wait to get back. Jenny did the same with Jack.

Like the teens, the parents said their goodbyes. Marge and Anne told Laura they would do what they could to help with the wedding. Don gave Laura a set of key to the house. He told her she could buy anything she needed to do her job. Laura thanked Don, Marc, Marge, and Anne for the opportunity.

Harry, Ellen, Jack, Sarah, Laura, and Joel, gathered their children. They all headed for Harry's van and Joel's car. The rest of the people stood on the driveway, waving as Harry pulled away.

"We have to get our things off the boat," Jack said. "What time are we flying out in the morning?"

"Our plane leaves at nine, Jack. We have to be ready to go by eight o'clock at the latest," Don said.

The teens went to the boat. They gathered the things they needed to take back to Michigan with them. Kim and Sally changed the sheets on their berths. They put the dirty sheets on the washer, leaving a note that they were sorry they didn't wash them. Once they had their things, the teens left for the house.

Kim, Sally, Jack, and Tom told their parents goodnight. They went to the guesthouse, went inside and began to pack for the trip back to Michigan. Kim and Sally helped their brothers, placing their things in the two suitcases they would take home. After packing, the teens took showers and went to bed.

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