Chapter 144: Betty Aucoin, 38, Calm...

Betty’s mind wasn’t racing, her heart wasn’t thumping, as she drove Richie from Mary’s to his house. Watching him politely turn down that naked little waitress boosted Betty’s spirits and gave her a little jolt of confidence. Maybe this whole crazy thing would work out after all.

She drove smoothly and sedately — no swerves, no sudden stops.

Betty wasn’t all that bothered to see Carole when they walked in the front door. She’d rather have had her privacy, but ... well, she was committed now.

“Mama, you remember Mrs. AuCoin.”

“Of course — welcome, Betty, so nice to see you.”

“Thank you.”

“Richie, I’m off to Naomi’s, but there’s gumbo in the fridge. And pecan pie for dessert.”

Betty thought, Good. She realizes how nervous I must be.

Carole winked, “Richie sent me your pictures — hon, you should be on stage.”

Betty beamed — that was exactly what Gigi had said. “Why thank you.” Not only was she not embarrassed that Carole had seen her in the buff, she was pleased. And, not remotely insulted by the suggestion that she could be baring it all in front of an audience — she was delighted, and took it as the compliment it was intended to be.

“I’m outta here — you kids have fun.”

And, it was as simple as that. Carole not only approved, but graced them with the courtesy of her absence.

Betty turned shyly to the boy. He smiled kindly and cupped her cheeks gently as he deep-kissed her for the first time. For a second Betty irrationally felt like she was back in middle school. When she and her giggly girlfriends had first started experimenting with each other.

In Richie’s bed, what surprised her — and it was a delightful surprise — was how much time Richie took with her. How slow and gentle he was. Then, when he licked his way down and started eating her, she was astonished at how talented he was.

The best I’ve ever had. And he’s just getting started.