We were headed for the overlook, and walked past the cool shade of the stone walls, the pathway lined with wooden doors, and potted plants. A few women, wearing cleaning outfits, were working in the guest rooms. White sheets billowed on clothes lines in one of the courtyards. We walked in silence. The wind picked up and my skin tightened from the swift breeze, bumps raising on my arms. The chandeliers above swayed gently with the oceanic air. Soon, we stood under a covered walkway overlooking the bay, a steep cliff on just the other side of the tiled wall. The sandstone behind us reflected a soft light. [[Website/Limerence/Charlotte]] turned to me her face tense and her eyes fiery. The silence of the walk had built into frustration. "What is it" she demanded, "that is *so* important that you pull me away from my party? Please don't tell me it's about a damn dog or some other problem you have in your fantasy land." I replied calmly. "Well, Charlotte, a pool party? And you didn't think to invite me..." She started to protest, but I cut her off. "In my own home? What, did you assume I wouldn't notice?" She folded her arms. "And", I continued, "the only welcome I get is hot tea from Arthur", I waved at her posture, "and a cold shoulder from you?" She pursed her lips tighter. "So", I said, my tone changing to be softer, "obviously I need to apologize. I've done something to make you upset." Her scorn shifted towards suspicion and she squinted her eyes, uncertainly. "Here is where the mystery begins", I stalled, "you threw a party, and didn't invite me..." Why wouldn't she invite me? I thought about what she had said earlier about Paradise Falls. I knew what was wrong. "Because you shouldn't have had to." She uncrossed her arms and put them on her hips. "You shouldn't have had to", I repeated, "because I should've known it was your birthday." She took a deep breath and parted her lips in a reluctant smile that turned into a grin. But it quickly changed back into a pout. "Why weren't you here?" she asked. "I thought you would've been more present. Instead you're away for weeks at a time. I sent mail, but never heard back." "I'm sorry." I admitted. "I should've come back sooner." I wasn't sure I wanted to tell her about the intrusive thoughts. Not after last time. "Well..." she asked, leaving it hanging in the air. "Well", I picked up, "I need a distraction. So... are you going to invite me to your party or not?" She scoffed, and I knew the storm had passed. She hit me on the arm. "Oh you! A distraction? I know just the thing." We locked arms as we walked back along the hibiscus flowers to the pool. [[Website/Limerence/After Party]]