George was pleased that everyone seemed to be having a good time.  Heading back into the kitchen to a chorus of 'Reds', George opened the Chinon that Vicki had brought up earlier and poured four glasses.  He placed the glasses on a serving tray and returned to the living room where everyone seemed to have gotten comfortable.<br/><br/>George placed the tray on the glass coffee table and handed one to Fred, then one to Vicki and finally one to Beth.  Lastly,he took his own, stood in front of the fireplace and raised his glass.  "Ladies and Gentleman, a toast.  To old friends and new.  To lost innocence and lost opportunities.  And finally a wish for us all...May we find the courage to seize the brass ring when it comes our way.  Cheers!"  George took a mighty swig of his wine, enjoying the heady feel of the liquid coursing down his throat.<br/><br/>George was truly enjoying himself, which was odd, he was never very relaxed at social gatherings.  The pressure of being 'social' usually sent him fleeing into a corner or other hideaway letting Vicki run the gauntlet alone.  Tonight, though, he felt at ease with the guests and found conversation easy and relaxing.  "Now that we have some refreshments...Fred, if you could stop ogling my wife's assets for a moment, why don't you tell Beth a little about why you're here."