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"This time… I know… it's for real."

"You say that about every other trick, Ms. Summer"

"This… was not a trick, Mr. Know-it-all."

"Sing it, Kelly."

"He wasguardinga trick. Secret Service."

"OK..." Alec nodded, drawing out the syllables. "Now, Iamintrigued."

"I don't want to say too much, doll. But he is one tall stick of butter."

"Let me guess. He's assigned to one of your foreign dignitaries."

"Bingo. But I don't want to say anymore. You never know who's listening. We'll talk when you

get back."

"Tease."

"Enough about me. Let's talk about you.You've had sex."

"How on earth would you know that?"

"Because you're all aglow, darling. If anyone knows about sexual afterglow, it's me."

"This is true."

"So, I'm right!"

"Yes."

Demarco smiled, clapping softly. "Do tell… how is Ennis in bed?"

"His name is Tyler, and he's—" Alec stammered… smiled… and blushed.

"Wow, THAT good?"

"It was pretty spectacular."

"You deserve it, kid."

"He'll be here later. I'm fixing dinner."

"Fantastic. I expect a full report."

They continued the conversation, digressing from their bedroom proclivities. Alec told

Demarco about Kristen's e-mail, the column, the response, and the demand for more.

"I'm not surprised. I've read it."

"And…"

"It has a different flavor, Alec. You know I love your stuff. Hell,ourstuff. But we live in a unique space. There's much more out there in the world. If you could tap into something a little more universal, I think you're success would be inevitable. I don't think it's music though. I think that's something you're clinging to—a pacifier, comfort food."

"I've come to a similar conclusion. It sure would be easier if you would tell me these things earlier though. You always seem to see the real me before I do."