It must have been a mirage, the black Mercedes kicking up dirt and gravel as it made its way up the lane. The woman stepped out in her designer dress, designer shoes, and the sparkling diamond ring her husband had given her on their tenth anniversary. It appeared that no one was home, but in the distance the woman noticed a man chopping wood, his naked chest glistening with sweat, his skin tanned, and his body perfect, with muscles that seemed to dance with every movement. Casandra dipped her shades to get a clearer look at the man she had never seen before.

******

When Jack knocked on her door the next morning, Casi sat straight up. “What is it?”

“I could ask you the same thing. Sleeping in our clothes now, are we?”

She looked down at the grass stains on her jeans.

“Rex has been here working for over an hour already; that is, if you’re interested.”

“Why would I be?”

Jack pulled out the plastic bag and handed it to Casi.

“What’s this?”

“Something I’m not willing to touch. Rex thought you might want it.”

Casi unzipped the little bag that contained her underwear. Jack watched as his sister’s face turned crimson.

“Okay, go ahead and say it.”

“What?”

“I bedded the first man who would have me after finding my husband with…well, you know.”

“I don’t recall there being a bed involved.”

Casi was mortified. She was embarrassed enough having her underwear handed to her. And why hadn’t Rex just kept them, like a gentleman.

“Oh, come on, kid. Don’t sweat it. I don’t care who you get it on with.”

He turned and left the room, leaving Casi too embarrassed to join him for breakfast. She did, however, plan to talk to Rex. She grabbed a piece of toast and made a beeline for the barn.