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"I can't force o back now The emotional responses that it takes to build andrelationship just aren't in me I'm a loner, Marie; I know that now I'm too selfish with my affections toward others; it's the albatross aroundit alone That way I can never hurt anyone ever again"

Marie looked up, tears in her eyes "Well then, I guess between us we'll even up the sides You're folding yourthe odd-woreat ranks of the matronly housewives"

Dana's lips parted in a wide smile "You and Mel?"

"Me and Mel"

"When?"

"It had better be soon or I' to have to order my trousseau from the Blessed Event Maternity Shop"

/>"You're pregnant?"

"That ain't Betty Crocker that's rising in my oven"

Dana caed Marie "You with a baby, I can't believe it"

"You better believe it They tried mouth-to-mouth resuscitation andstill died"

"You mean rabbit"

"Where've you been? They gave up rabbits years ago"

"Oh, Marie, I' whole new life patterns Aren't you excited?"

"Oh sure," Marie said in a dry tone "Nothing like starting aneith a big bang"

"Is there any other way?"