Irene wasn’t sure what she expected.  Certainly not what Sam said.  And then he moved to his saddlebags and withdrew two kerchiefs.  And, seeing them, she laughed.  She set down her fork and knife and covered her face and laughed.  And, then she applauded because he deserved it.  “Oh, Sam---“ she sighed.  She sensed he wasn’t making fun of her, but doing what he could to help.  Her heart warmed from the gesture.<br/><br/>Sam’s hands on her shoulders were a surprise.  She leaned back as he touched her breasts, tilting her head as he pressed his face to her neck and shivering when he bit at her earlobe.  Good heavens, Irene thought. Here was a man who listened...to the actual problem, not just reacting to the stupid emotion-fueled melancholy.  The problem, being dealt with, Irene felt so much better.<br/><br/>“Sa—“ she started, but he cut her off.<br/><br/>He chuckled quietly, “I just didn’t want you to forget that I want you.  And not just in your bed, darlin’ . . . so chew on that some with your dinner.”<br/><br/>What?  She wondered.  What was he saying?  She pursed her lips for the kiss, but her mind was blank.  He couldn’t mean...  Why would he...?<br/><br/>Absently, Irene ate some of the tomato and cucumbers.  Perhaps it just meant that he wanted her in the tub.  Or, maybe outdoors...  People liked different things.  It would be good if he came back...<br/><br/>Irene looked up at Sam as he ate his food.  “What brought you to Oasis, Sam?  I don’t think I ever got a chance to ask that question.”  She smiled, the kitty that swallowed the canary and the saucer of cream.  “We were a mite busy...”<br/>