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"I'"

"Sounds toto you"

"Complications," she said "I was sidetracked It happens in research You delve into one subject and find a fascinating bit of information that takes you on a totally different course"

The drinks came and Pitt paid the waitress "You're sure you can't request an extension"

She shook her head "If only I could But I've used up all my accuible again" Then suddenly her eyes came alive "Why don't you coether before I sail"

Pitt took her hand "Sorry, dear heart, butmyself, for a project in the Labrador Sea"

"How long will you be gone?"

"A month, maybe six weeks"

"Will we see each other again?" Her voice became soft

"I'ood memories should be relived"

Twentytheir second drink, Pitt escorted Heidi to her boarding gate Already the waiting area had cleared and the attendant behind the checkin counter was announcing the final call

She set her purse and cosh expectant eyes He responded by kissing her Then he tilted back his head and grinned "There goes my macho reputation"

"How so?"

"As soon as word gets around that I was seen kissing a sailor, I'h"

"You clown" She pulled his head down and kissed hi and hard Finally she released him and blinked back the tears "Goodbye, Dirk Pitt"