The manager where he worked called him into the office to ask him about it, and Doug claimed not to know what they were talking about. After that, he called here to say he was going to have to work late; then he left work early, and just… disappeared. I don't doubt that he'll turn up sooner or later — he's just too fucking stupid not to get caught!"

I'd never heard Teresa swear before, so that last bit told me better than anything else just what she thought of her absent spouse.

Still, I had to smile at her description of him, and she smiled, too, before telling me "The only good thing about it is that because the money came out of an account that HE had to sign for, the insurance company isn't trying to come after ME to recover it. And because he took off the way he did, the lawyer I got when I filed for a divorce tells me that it's not going to take anywhere near as long for it to be granted, once the judge gets a chance to see it. He thinks a couple more months, maybe a little longer, and I'll be free again!", obviously pleased at the prospect.

Our conversation was put on hold by the reappearance of the girls. All of them insisted that since I was going to be staying with them, I simply had to see their rooms. By the time I'd gotten the tour and made all the appropriate remarks, it was close to time for supper. Teresa sent them in to get the table ready, giving her and I the chance to chat a little more before she got up to finish supper. I offered to help, and was politely informed that I was a guest that night, and that I'd have plenty of chances to help later if I wanted — so I'd better enjoy the break I was getting. I laughed, and gave in. Several minutes later, Karen came in to let me know that it was time to eat.

When I sat down at the table, I realized just how glad Teresa was to see me.