Our labored breathing was returning to normal.  Moments earlier, she’d moaned her release as I had a while before.  My body was relaxing as the pleasure we’d shared coursed through me. 

Laying flat on my back, the dim light from the bedside lamp illuminated the paneling above allowing me to make out the details. Shadows playing across the moldings that bordered its surface. 

“That was wonderful Tina,” she said.

“Yes.”  I smiled and responded. “Sleep well.”  Shortly after, her breathing calmed and body stilled.  I knew she was asleep.  Reaching over, I turned the light off and the room plunged into darkness.

Sleep eluded me.  Oddly, it usually did when we spent the night together.  I considered going back to my apartment but leaving in the middle of the night wasn’t called for.  Besides, I remembered my car was at the Center since we’d left from there together earlier. 

My period of living like a nomad between Alice’s and Dana’s was over soon after the settlement review weeks ago.  Of course we still saw each other but I missed the generous time we had living under the same roof dearly. 

However, the time was right to establish a more permanent dwelling.  The decision was made swiftly and I’d organized the move which went smoothly. 

The competent relocation and work at the Center reminded me that I had let things slip from my fingers somewhat.  Allowing and expecting others to take care of details when I was more than capable of making decisions and exercising project management skills honed at my old job. 

I’m confident I won’t let that happen again.  That I would make sure to take an active role in my life and those I cared for. Laying a stake in the ground and not being carried away by forces around me. 

Of course, not just for the sake of being obstinate – rather, to make sure that dialogue and agreement was in place prior to action. 

Thoughts of leaving abandoned, unmoving, I lay there thinking about Helena.

Our lovemaking was gratifying.  I don’t regret being with her.  She’s a beautiful person inside and out.  She’s been kind to me and we get along well.  Common interests and companionable temperaments.