Alien Invasion Series: The First Five Books: Dazzle Shelton - Alien Invasion Series

By Don Vodka

In a vast universe where truth blurs with fiction, author Don Vodka weaves a mesmerizing tale that spans the cosmos and grips the imagination. Brace yourself as you journey back 20,000 years, to a time when humanity's origin planet faced annihilation at the hands of merciless extraterrestrial invaders.

Amidst the brutal interstellar war, humans teetered on the precipice of extinction, their numbers dwindling with each passing day. As hope waned, a desperate plan emerged—three colossal arks, each bound for a distant world that promised sanctuary and a chance for survival.

Yet, the ark destined for Tekka suffered a treacherous fate. Sabotaged on its harrowing voyage, the surviving humans found themselves on the planet's wild surface, stripped of all technology and cut off from their brethren. Forgotten, they regressed to a primal state, reduced to mere shadows of their once-thriving civilization.

But the aliens, the relentless scourge that haunted their nightmares, never forgot. Relentlessly scouring the galaxy, they sought to eradicate humanity to its last remnants. Two of the planets where humans had settled fell prey to their insatiable bloodlust, leaving a singular beacon of resistance—Tekka, now known as Earth, in the year 2021.

Just when all seemed lost, a ray of hope pierced the desolate heart of the Nevada desert. A vengeful human landed, an angel... armed with a formidable weapon stolen from the alien invaders themselves. She was more than human, a creation infused with their very DNA, seething with an all-consuming hatred for the atrocities committed against her world. She was madness incarnate, and her name became a legend. She was known as Daz.

Seventeen years passed, and her daughter, DAZZLE, inherited her mother's fiery legacy. With the blood of both human and alien coursing through her veins, she possessed a lethal prowess that transcended mere mortals. DAZZLE reveled in tearing aliens asunder, her thirst for vengeance unquenchable. Yet, amidst the chaos of battle, the teenage girl found solace in sleepovers, tequila-fueled nights, and a forbidden romance that pulsed through her veins. Her existence teetered on a razor's edge, poised between humanity and monstrosity. Fangs. Claws. Strength. Yes to all.

In this boxset, encompassing the first five breathtaking books of a now ten-book series, you will be thrust into a universe teetering on the brink of annihilation:

0: Invasion Earth—In the year 2021 A.D., as the relentless invaders close in, humanity's final stand begins.
1: Sleeper Cells—2039 plunges seventeen-year-old DAZZLE into a war she never asked for, as her metahuman abilities awaken, thrusting her into the heart of the battle.
2: Clones Attack—As the alien threat intensifies, DAZZLE becomes a pawn in their sinister plans, her very existence hanging in the balance.
3: Battle Across Time—In a daring gambit to rewrite history, DAZZLE embarks on a perilous journey through time, chasing her nemesis while fate teeters on a precipice.
4: Galaxy at War—A cosmic loop spanning 20,000 years is unleashed, unraveling the mysteries of the origin planet and intertwining the destinies of humanity and its extraterrestrial adversaries.

Prepare for an unforgettable odyssey through time, space, and the depths of the human spirit. Brace yourself for the intoxicating allure of vengeance, the clash of civilizations, and the untamed power coursing through DAZZLE's veins. The Alien War Series awaits, daring you to delve into its heart-stopping pages and discover the truth that lies beyond the realms of imagination.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Books Under The Stairs
• Release date: Jun 8, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223321729

Don Vodka

Donnalee Vodka began her life in a small town in southern Nevada. She has always been fascinated with Science Fiction, especially movies. Some of her favorites are Independence Day, 12 Monkeys, Black Panther, and of course the Back to the Future trilogy. When she couldn't find an exciting time travel/sci fi movie to watch, she decided to write her own story. So, in 2021, while still in high school, she sat down and began tapping away at the keyboard, writing novels that read like movies. Donnalee has already released ten books in her Dazzle Shelton – Alien Invasion Series, published by Books Under The Stairs. In her own words, ‘if you like Buffy, The Vampire Slayer, and wonder what a mashup between Clueless and War of the Worlds would be like… you’re as whack as I am and I think you’ll like my series. Read the books now, ahead of the streaming series. Periodt.’ Donnalee, or Don as she is known to her friends, writes from the heart. Over a strong margarita. (edit - only when I’m in Canada where I’m legal… DV) If she needs inspiration she need look no further than out the back window of her twenty-foot house trailer. For barely 25 miles away lies Groom Lake, aka Area 51. After a few shots of Tequila , the aliens starting buzzing about overhead. Always. Don wants everyone to know she is NOT Russian, and supports the Ukraine 100%. In fact, she can trace her roots to the city of Odessa, where her great-great-grandparents lived more than a hundred years ago. She has a webpage, donvodka.com, and is hard at work on the next book in the series. This new edition stars Misty and Rikkie, and is set in the year 2068. Don states that this time the aliens are ruthless. But Misty, the metahuman with claws and fangs--and a quick temper--is more than ready. Look for the book to drop in June or perhaps sooner. Depending on the Tequila. And a reminder to everyone… keep watching the skies! Fox Mulder was onto something—and it wasn’t that stuff you can smoke.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Dazensha

"...that was Save Your Tears by The Weeknd on WKRP The Desert Dog, and it’s another scorching day in the valley, hitting one hundred and eight degrees with no end in sight for the next few—"

Twenty-seven-year-old Ross Shelton reached over and turned off the radio.

I know it’s hot, don’t need to be reminded, he said to nobody but himself, as he headed down the old dirt road deeper into the Nevada desert.

The sun was beating down on the valley near Sunrise, Nevada like it always seemed to. Everything in sight was already baked to well-done, and more heat was just burning it. Ross smacked the air conditioner in his 1988 Ford Bronco, trying to get a little colder air out of the struggling A/C unit. The fan rattled, stopped, then came back to life and blew again, but not any colder.

Just don’t die on me, baby, he said.

Keeping his left hand on the wheel, he leaned to the right and reached over onto the floor of the passenger side, searching for the water bottle he had thrown in earlier. His fingertips touched the bottle but only caused it to roll further out of reach. Ross strained against the seat belt, to no avail. The Bronco swerved across the road, then back. He straightened up, glanced around, but knew that the chances of any other vehicle being on this same back road were extreme, to say the least. He looked back at the water bottle, and because it was frustratingly out of reach, he became extremely thirsty. He felt like if he didn’t get a drink of water in the next ten seconds he would pass out and expire. It was like an itch that you couldn’t quite scratch.

Damn it, he muttered.

Ross undid the seat belt and leaned down again. This time his hand found the water bottle and grabbed it tightly. As he squeezed the plastic bottle the whole thing split up the side and the water spilled all over the floorboard.

Fuck that!

He brought what was left of the bottle, torn from top to bottom, up to his lips and drank. There was about an ounce of water left, and most of that dribbled down the front of his shirt. But the few drops that found their way into his mouth were all he needed. It was a game, and he had won.

Ha-ha, laughed Ross, as he pitched the torn bottle over his shoulder into the back. But now he was actually thirsty, for real. Good thing there was a case of water in the back of the Bronco, chilling inside his cooler. He pulled off the road and drove into the sand. He turned off the engine, got out, and opened the back hatch. Leaning against the back bumper, in the shade of the hatch, Ross drained an entire bottle of water, then reached for another.

Just then his phone rang. He glanced at the display, accepting the call when he saw who it was.

Pistol Pete, said Ross. I was wondering when you would call.

Peter Remington was Ross’s current employer, so to speak. Ross had been hired to take photos for Peter’s new book, with the deadline in two weeks. Technically they were more like partners in the book Peter was working on. It was their third time working together, and they both expected a huge payday from another bestseller. They were also best friends and had been since either could remember.

I don’t like when you call me Pistol Pete, said Peter.

You didn’t like when I called you Remington Steele either, said Ross. So, what should I call you from now on?

I don’t know, answered Peter. Maybe Peter. After all, that is my name.

Back up for a moment, said Ross. What do you call me?

Ross, because that’s your name, said Peter.

"Ross is not my name, it’s a nickname that you gave me about twenty years ago if I recall. When we were in fifth grade."

Fourth grade, corrected Peter. And, yes. I remember your name is Ron. Or Ronald.

Peter had given him the nickname Ross by taking the ‘Ro’ from Ron and the ‘S’ from Shelton. Thus, it became Ross. And of course, it was also short for Roswell. And Peter knew very well that Ross was obsessed with the UFO crash in Roswell, New Mexico back in the 1940s.

So why is it okay for you to call me Ross, but I can’t call you Pistol Pete? asked Ross.

Because you hate when anyone calls you Ronald, said Pete. Everyone calls you Ross. But you should hear what they call you behind your back.

I know, said Ross. Runaway Bride.

Yeah, and I try to tell them that’s not fair because it was your wife that was the runaway bride, not you, said Pete.

Ex-wife, corrected Ross. "And who exactly is ‘them’?"

Basically, everyone in town, said Pete. Actually, it was more like that movie Along Came Polly, and you are the Ben Stiller character. You know, where the wife hooks up with the scuba instructor on their honeymoon.

I’m aware, Pete, said Ross. "I got about ten DVDs and tapes of that stupid movie. People keep leaving ‘em in my mailbox. People like ‘them’, I bet. Anyway, how’s Jessie?"

She’s doing okay, said Peter. Baby’s due in seven months.

Just say hi, said Ross. And tell her she married the wrong guy. Because her husband is a pussy and needs a good ass-kicking. And frankly, I don’t know how she got pregnant. Must be those little blue pills that Doc Ben prescribes for you.

Did Ben tell you about those? asked a shocked Peter. That little shit of a doctor, what a big mouth.

I was just kidding, said Ross. But thanks for confirming... ha-ha.

You’re such a jerk. I think it’s you that needs the ass-kicking, Roswell, and if you are challenging, I accept. We’ll settle this in the ring next time I see you, said Peter.

Mixed martial arts was both of their passions, or at least it had been when they were younger. Now they only beat each other up for fun. Followed by ice-cold beers, which was their current passion.

You’re right, I probably do need a good ass-kicking, said Ross. But not from a girl like you. But I’m in, and you’ll be out, again, when I bring the thunder.

You’re breaking up, buddy, all I can hear is a bunch of bullshit on my phone, said Peter. Back to reality, how is it going on those photos?

As a matter of fact, I’m just setting up the camera now, ready to take a few quality shots, lied Ross, as he took a sip of water.

More B.S., said Peter. It’s barely ten in the morning, and we both know you just rolled out of bed maybe fifteen minutes ago. I’m pretty sure you were surprised to see what the world looks like this early.

Bam! You’re right, said Ross. But I am in the desert near my destination, and I guarantee I’m gonna get a great photo for your book. Maybe even the cover shot.

Really? Peter was suddenly intrigued. That would be amazing. The last batch of photos you sent were all great, by the way, the best so far. It’s hard to pick and choose. Have you got a different photo planned, something special?

I have a shot planned inside the saloon in this ghost town. The sun shines through the window where the name of the saloon is spelled out. And at the right time, you can read the name of the saloon on the floor, in shadow. That’s why I’m up so damn early, just to make that shot for you, buddy, said Ross.

Sounds great, bud. Take it easy. Talk to you later, said Peter.

Nothing much had changed since their school days. They were still best friends, even with all the ribbing they gave each other. Ross put the phone in his pocket, chugged the bottle of water, and closed the hatch.

He took a deep breath, gazed wistfully at the serene desert landscape, and thought how lucky he was to have all this beautiful desert as his backyard. Such a lovely, peaceful desert, he thought. Just then a tumbleweed blew past and as Ross turned to watch it a small dust devil swirled around him, taking his Golden Knights cap off and throwing it into a nearby cactus plant. The dust spun around him for a few seconds, sandblasting him, then twirled off into the desert.

Fucking desert, he said. "I fucking hate you!"

He walked over to pull his cap off the prickly cactus, spitting out sand and picking pebbles out of his ears.

HE ARRIVED AT THE GHOST town and set up for the shot that he had promised Peter. He cleaned the lenses, installed fresh batteries, and decided where to put the tripod. He checked the ambient light, adjusted his Canon EOS camera accordingly, and placed it on the tripod. Even though it was only one picture in Peter’s book, it meant taking dozens of shots, using different filters and exposure times. Plus, Peter might want some shots of the building and the town, just for background material. Ross had all the bases covered and had a hunch he would get a great photo for Peter today.

The sun cooperated and created the shadow that Ross was hoping for. He was able to get the money shot and felt good about his day. Even though, every once in a while, he had to pick a cactus spine out of his cap that was jabbing into his head.

After packing up his gear Ross kicked back on the dilapidated porch of the old saloon and ate his ham and tomato sandwich. He had his camera in hand and snapped the odd photo from where he sat. He was hoping for maybe a coyote or something else to show up, just to make his photo unique.

As if on cue, Ross saw something in the sky that was unusual. It was bright, like a falling star or a comet, and it looked like it might hit in the desert. He quickly set the camera to autofocus and continuous shooting and zoomed in on the object. It glowed for a moment, then appeared to alter direction slightly.

As he was getting shots of the mysterious something there was a series of three loud BOOM noises, that shook the entire ghost town. A few old boards fell off the side of the saloon. Ross was startled, but continued shooting and followed it until it disappeared behind the run-down church at the end of the street.

Wow. Wonder what that was? he mumbled to himself. He shoved the rest of the sandwich into his mouth, nearly choking before spitting out the ham, then jumped into the Bronco and headed home.

At almost the same spot he had stopped on his way to the ghost town, Ross pulled over again. This time it was for a different pit stop.

Time to water the cactus, he said.

As he sprayed his urine on the plant, he caught sight of something shiny off in the distance. He squinted his eyes, trying to make out whatever it was that was sparkling in the desert. It was too far away to see clearly. So, he zipped up and headed back to the Bronco. He opened his camera bag and took out the camera and fitted it with a 600mm lens. He looked towards the distant object, steadying his arm against the Bronco body.

What the—?

Ross put the camera into the bag, slammed the tailgate shut, and jumped into the drivers’ seat. He turned the wheel hard left and sped off across the nearly flat landscape, bouncing over small cactus and flowers as his speed reached upwards of sixty miles per hour. As he drew closer, he could not believe what he was seeing. He slammed on the brakes and the Bronco skidded sideways to a stop.

Hey! he yelled at the woman, as he ran over to her.

She was taking baby steps and paused when he called out to her. She turned and looked towards Ross.

Tekka? she said.

Take a what? asked Ross.

The girl looked about mid-twenties and was wearing a shiny white jumpsuit. And no shoes. Just her bare feet. Her hair was dark brown, almost black, as were her eyes. For someone walking around in the middle of the desert under the scorching sun, she looked in a rather good condition. All Ross could think of was that she looked ‘brand new’, freshly minted.

Are you okay? he asked.

She was looking around at her surroundings and seemed confused... not surprising for someone under the hot sun without a hat on. She spoke, and when she did it was Ross that was confused, for he had never heard a language like that before. And she looked at him as if she expected that he should understand. But he didn’t. And him not understanding seemed to puzzle her even more.

Are you thirsty? I’ve got lots of water in my SUV. He pointed to the Bronco. And where are your shoes?

Tekka? she asked, again.

I don’t know what that means, said Ross. Are you lost? Maybe you should come with me back to town.

She looked beautiful, thought Ross. And nobody lost in the desert ever looks beautiful.

He scanned the area to see if perhaps she had wandered off from a movie or commercial that was being filmed nearby. Or even a photo-shoot. He could see for miles in every direction, yet there was nothing. He didn’t quite know what to do, although he thought that anyone out in the desert in their bare feet was not in their right mind. Likely she required some type of assistance, medical or otherwise.

Maybe she was suffering from extreme heat shock, he thought. He had better get her the water. He ran and fetched a bottle, opened it, and passed it to her. She held the bottle and examined it, tipping it upside down at one point and letting some water pour out. Then she put it to her lips and drank all of it.

What to do, what to do? he asked himself aloud. He had found a lot of unusual items in the desert over the years, from coins to jewelry and once even a 200-year-old human skull. Those things he had put in a bag and taken to get appraised. But he had never found a girl before and wasn’t sure if he had a big enough bag to put her in.

The first thing was to get her out of the blazing sun. And to cool her off. He held out his hand, hoping to gain her trust. She eyed his hand, and all Ross could think of was she was like a fish looking at a worm on a hook. She must be scared, he thought, perhaps even thinking he was a whack job trying to kidnap her. Ross removed his hockey cap and held it out to the girl. She took the cap, turning it over in her hands. Ross motioned to his head, and she slowly placed the cap on her head. Okay, he thought, that’s a start.

He stepped in closer and again held his hand out. She reached out her hand, and as their fingers touched the girl suddenly twitched and began to blink rapidly. Then her eyes closed and she started to teeter. Ross caught her as she was falling, and lowered her to the sand. She was unconscious.

He checked her pulse, and it seemed normal. Heatstroke, he thought? Or maybe something more serious? He picked her up and carried her to the Bronco, opening the passenger door while balancing her in one arm. He placed her on the seat and fastened the seat belt tightly around her. He ran around and climbed into the drivers’ seat, then leaned over and rested her shoulder against the passenger door. She was not awake, but she was still breathing, which was good. So far.

Ross had gained enough experience in the desert over the years to know that anyone exposed to the extreme heat for a while could have serious medical issues. Sometimes symptoms were not obvious, but the consequences were all too real nonetheless. The correct thing to do would be to drive her into Sunrise and get his good friend Doctor Ben Tucker to look at her. He called the doctor’s office as he started driving.

Good Sunrise morning, Dr. Tucker’s office, said the female voice.

Audrey, he said. It’s me, Ross.

Oh hi, Ross, said Audrey, the receptionist. How are you?

I don’t know, he said. "Maybe you should ask ‘them’."

Huh? said Audrey.

Never mind, said Ross. But this is important. I’m bringing someone in to get checked by Ben.

You’re bringing someone in? asked Audrey. Like who?

Ross reached the back road and turned towards the highway. He glanced at the young woman beside him in the Bronco. She was totally out of it, her head bobbing back and forth against the passenger seat.

It’s a woman, he said. Looks about twenty-five or so. I found her wandering in the desert out past Red Ridge, on the way to Juniper Junction.

Are you serious? Wandering in the desert? asked Audrey. Is she injured or anything? Do you know her name?

Too many questions, Audrey. If I knew all the answers to those questions, I wouldn’t need the doctor to look at her. All I know is she was in the middle of the desert. I spotted her from the trail. I asked her what she was doing out there, but she didn’t seem to understand me. Then she just fainted. It sounds odd, but that’s what happened. She’s unconscious in my SUV now. That’s all I know.

I’ll tell Ben. You can bring her right in. So, you should be in here in, what, about fifteen minutes? asked Audrey.

Ten, or less, answered Ross, as he wheeled right at the stop sign. I’m at the highway now.

HE CARRIED THE UNCONSCIOUS girl to the office door, past Gary and Pam Brower who were walking on the sidewalk. He heard old Pam whispering to her husband.

Look, Ross finally got a new girlfriend.

Ross paused a moment and gave a WTF look at Pam, who only smiled. Damn small towns, thought Ross. Everyone knows everything about everybody.

Come on into the examination room Ross, and set her down gently on the table, said Dr. Benjamin Tucker.

Ross followed Ben into the room and carefully placed the girl on the table, then took another good look at her, as the doctor wrapped a blood pressure cuff on her arm. The jumpsuit she was wearing was skintight and stretchy, off-white in color with hints of silver. It was ribbed with lines that seemed to accentuate the girl’s striking figure. There was a wide waistband, and shiny silver trim on her stomach. There were no pockets. And as he had noticed before, she had no shoes on, just her bare feet. Her face was as close to perfect as Ross imagined a face could get.

The girl was limp on the table as Ben did a quick visual analysis of her, looking for any obvious signs of injury.

Where did you find her, Ross? asked Ben.

Maybe a mile or two off the trail to Red Ridge, said Ross. I saw something shiny out in the desert. Must have been that trim stuff on her stomach there. She was walking really slowly, and when I got to her, she just looked kind of ... lost, I guess. Then she fainted.

Well, she couldn’t have been out there too long, not in this heat. She has no sunburn or anything. In fact, she looks much too clean for someone who was wandering in the desert. Not a mark on her clothes, said Ben. And look at her feet, on the bottom. Clean as a whistle.

That’s what I thought, too, said Ross. Like a brand-new Barbie doll.

Ben gave Ross a quick glance. Which Barbie doll from your collection does she remind you of, Ross?

Shut up, said an embarrassed Ross. I was just drawing a comparison, okay?

Audrey came in to assist. She lifted the girl’s arm and wrapped an elastic tube just above her elbow. The unconscious girl offered no resistance as Audrey found a vein and carefully put a needle in, drawing a few samples of blood. Audrey labeled the samples and took them back out to the office. She prepped the blood samples and called a courier to take them to the lab in town to see what, if anything, was not normal. The glucose level test would be done in the office, using a new rapid test, and results would be known in a few minutes.

I better get Audrey to call the Sheriff’s office and let them know about her. Maybe there’s a missing person case out on her, said Ben.

I’m on it, Ben, said Audrey, who was watching from the doorway.

What were you doing way out in the desert anyway, Ross? asked Ben.

Taking some photos for Pete’s new book, said Ross. I was just coming back from the ghost towns.

Ben leaned over the girl’s face and lifted one eyelid open. He shone a small penlight into her eye, noting the reaction.

That was weird, said Ben.

What was weird? asked Ross.

It almost looked like something quickly went over the pupil, said Ben. Like a film of some kind. But now it’s gone. Must have been my imagination, I guess. Anyway, there are no signs of trauma, her vitals are all normal, skin feels okay. Look at her fingernails, Ross.

What about them? asked Ross as he looked at her hands.

Looks like she just had a manicure, said Ben. Every nail is perfect, not even a hangnail or anything. No dirt under any fingernail. Are you sure you found her in the desert?

Yeah, I’m sure. Maybe she’s a model, offered Ross, as he took her hand and studied it. He turned the girl’s hand over and felt her palm, and as he leaned in for a closer look, she opened her eyes and her hand closed around Ross’s hand. She stared at Ross, unblinking, all the while holding his hand. Her hand was soft and small and fit perfectly together with his. Or that was what he imagined, at least. He looked into her dark eyes, as the girl continued to look directly at Ross. With her shiny dark brown hair and her light bronze-colored skin, she was stunning, a fact that Ross had not missed.

Chapter 2

Is Pepsi Okay

SHE’S AWAKE, SAID Ross.

I’m a doctor, miss. Can you tell me your name? asked Ben.

The girl ignored Doc Ben and kept looking at Ross, staying quiet. She just remained laying on the table, studying Ross.

I don’t think she speaks any English, offered Ross. I already tried talking to her out in the desert.

Ma’am, said Ben. He snapped his fingers in front of her face, but she did not take her eyes off of Ross. Do you understand English?

See, said Ross. Nothing.

She seems kind of fixated on you, Roswell, said Ben, as he checked her pulse at her wrist.

I guess she sees something she likes, said Ross.

So did your ex, said Ben, snickering. We know how that ended.

You know, Ben, said Ross. If you weren’t the only doctor in town—

Why is she holding your hand all the time, asked Ben. He pointed a temperature sensor at her forehead.

Because I saved her life, I guess, said Ross. How’s her temperature?

Ninety-eight point six. Perfect. Blood pressure is normal, heartbeat strong and steady, so far everything seems good, said Ben. I wouldn’t hold your hand if you saved my life.

I wouldn’t save your life, said Ross. Even if you were dying.

Fair enough, said Ben.

Suddenly the girl squeezed Ross’s hand so tight he thought his fingers would break. Her eyes flashed open even wider as she looked more intently at Ross. She sat up on the table, still holding onto Ross’s hand and squeezing it very hard. Then she spoke, and Ross was sure it was the same language she had used before. It was definitely not any language that either Ross or Ben understood. She repeated it, with more emphasis, and enunciated each syllable distinctly. Ross clenched his jaw and shook his head.

You’re crushing my hand, said Ross. She didn’t respond but kept squeezing his hand.

Ross grimaced and pointed with his other hand, as she kept the pressure on.

Ow! he said, and she immediately released her grip.

Correction, Doc. I don’t think she’s a model, said Ross, as he massaged his hand, and flexed the fingers to get the pain out. More likely an arm wrestler.

Audrey peeked in the doorway again and told Ben that the Sheriff had been notified and he would be by a little later. He had told her that there were no active missing person cases in the area. She also said that the glucose levels were all within the normal range. In fact, they were exactly ideal levels. Ben told her to put a rush on the blood work, for he had a feeling that something was a little odd about the girl.

Tekka? said the girl. She looked back and forth from Ross to Ben, waiting for a response.

She said that before, said Ross, back in the desert. It must be a word in her language.

Maybe a company name, suggested a puzzled Ben. Her employer, perhaps.

The girl was sitting up now, on the edge of the examination table, and Ross moved in closer to her. He tapped himself on the chest.

Ross, he said. He did it again, tapping his chest. Ross.

She looked at him and once again spoke in the strange language. Both Ross and Ben shook their heads, not understanding a single word. It didn’t even sound like a language that either had heard before.

Is she speaking Klingon, Ross? asked Ben, chuckling.

How did I know you were gonna say that? asked Ross. He again addressed the girl.

Ross... Ross, he said.

Ross... Ross, she said. Clearly and perfectly. She pointed at him and said it again. Ross.

Yes, yes, he said. I’m Ross.

I’m Ross, she repeated. I’m Ross.

No, said Ross. He drew a deep breath and tried again. Ross... Ross.

Ross, she said. And damned if she didn’t smile a little. Then she tapped her chest and spoke again.

Dazensha... Dazensha, she said as she pointed at herself.

Daz... Daz-and-what? asked Ross. That’s a mouthful. How about if I just call you Daz. Would that be okay?

He pointed at himself, Ross. Then he pointed at her, Daz.

She was expressionless for a moment. Then the smile returned.

Daz, she said, nodding her head. Daz.

Ross went out into the reception area and returned with a bottle of cold water. He offered it to the girl. She reached out slowly and accepted the bottle. She tipped the bottle to her mouth and attempted to drink. But the cap was still on.

Ross made the action of holding a bottle and unscrewing the cap. She took hold of the cap and twisted it. When the cap came off, she held it up and examined it, as well as the top of the bottle. She gave a little smile again, then drank from the bottle. At first, she drank slowly and only a sip. But then she held the bottle up in front of Ross and spoke a single word. It was obviously her language for water. She drank half the bottle and bowed her head slightly to Ross.

Water, said Ross. Wa-ter.

Wa-ter, she repeated.

Try to get her to write her name on this notepad, said Ben. Maybe we can find out who she is.

Ross took the pad and pen and passed it to the girl. She felt the paper as if it was the first time that she had seen a piece of paper, and studied the pen too. Ross said her name and pointed to the paper. She was confused, so he took the pen and spelled out his name on the pad, then pointed to himself and read his name aloud. She seemed to understand and wrote on the pad.

Dazensha, she said, as she handed the pad to Ross. Daz.

Ross looked at what she had written. It looked like a bunch of symbols, definitely not anything that either Ross or Ben were familiar with. It was shaping up to be a long day, thought Ross.

I can’t find anything wrong with her, said Ben. I’m guessing she wasn’t in the desert for too long. Maybe somebody dumped her there.

Who’s gonna dump a girl in the desert? asked Ross. I wouldn’t dump her, I know that.

That’s because you know how it feels to get dumped, said Ben.

Wish I could put you in airplane mode, said Ross. But about the girl... there were no other vehicles anywhere around there, and no tire marks either.

I don’t know, maybe she came down on a parachute, said Ben.

We’re in a no-fly zone, remember, said Ross. Because of Area 51 and the Air Force base.

Yeah, said Ben. I’m just thinking outside the box.

I’m thinking outside the box, too, said Ross. I’m thinking that she might have fainted due to lack of food. She might be hungry, right?

Could be, agreed Ben.

Is there any reason why I can’t take her across the street for lunch? asked Ross.

Are you asking me if you can date the patient? asked Ben.

Not like I need your permission, said Ross.

I’m the doctor. She’s my patient, said Ben.

I found her, said Ross. I’m responsible for her.

Well, it is about time you moved on, agreed Ben. It’s been about three years.

Why is everyone in this town so interested in my personal affairs? asked Ross.

It’s not an affair, because your marriage was dissolved, said Ben, smiling.

My life is a goddamn open book, said Ross. I’m going for lunch, and I’m taking the girl, and it’s not a date!

Fine, said Ben, smiling and patting Ross on the back. You can feed her. From what I can see there’s nothing wrong with her. She might have had heat stroke, it’s pretty hard to say. If this was a hospital they would release her, so get some food in her and some fluids, too. Just no alcohol.

Ross held out his hand to the girl, Daz, and with very little coaxing, she put her hand into his. He slowly led her out of the examination room.

If she seems dizzy or her condition changes, bring her right back here, said Ben. Doctor’s orders.

Roger that, said Ross.

Roger that, repeated Daz.

Ross and Ben looked at each other, both amused but puzzled. Ross shrugged his shoulders.

Seeing as you found her, and you seem to have adopted each other, said Ben, maybe you should take her over to Penney’s and buy her some shoes. I don’t think Ally will let her in the diner without shoes, even if she is a model.

Ross and Ben looked down at her bare feet, and Daz looked down too. She wiggled her toes and smiled. Ross led her out of the doctor’s office and down the sidewalk to the J.C. Penney store, and she held his hand all the way.

ROSS HELD UP A PAIR of white athletic shoes for Daz to see. However, she was preoccupied with staring around the store, as if it was the first time she had been in a department store in her life. Ross tapped her on the shoulder.

Daz, he said. She turned quickly to face him.

Ross, she replied.

That’s right, said Ross. Do you know what size shoes you wear?

She talked again in her strange language.

Oh, yeah, he said. Klingon. I forgot.

Ross guided Daz over to a bench and sat her down. Then he picked up a shoe measurement tool and knelt down in front of her. He reached out slowly and touched her ankle, then looked at her to make sure she understood what he was doing. She remained expressionless so he slowly wrapped his hand around her slender ankle, and lifted her foot into the measuring tool. He took the measurement and then found her size in the white shoes that he had shown her earlier. They would match her outfit nicely, he thought. But when he returned to her, she had already found a pair of red high heels which she was admiring.

No, Daz, said Ross, and he shook his head. Those are not good for the desert.

No, she repeated.

Yes, said Ross, that’s right.

Yes, she said.

No, not yes, said Ross. No.

No? She looked puzzled.

Yes, he answered. No.

Yes? No? she asked.

Never mind, he said. He looked around to make sure nobody had witnessed that Abbott and Costello moment.

He swapped the athletic shoes for the high heels. Then he grabbed a pair of no-show socks and helped her get them on. She sat patiently as he laced up her shoes. Daz followed Ross to the checkout and she watched as he swiped his debit card, studying everything he did.

Let’s go eat now, he said. As they exited the store, she took his hand and held it. Ross smiled at her, wondering how he had got so lucky that day, finding a girl wandering in the desert. It sure beat searching for old coins with his metal detector. Not to mention it had been a long time since he had held a girl’s hand and walked through Sunrise. Maybe everyone was right, he thought. Maybe it was time to move on.

As they walked to the diner, the girl, Dazensha, talked again to Ross in her language. Something about her mannerisms and her tone made Ross think that it was important. And she kept mentioning the word Tekka. He would speak to the Sheriff later to see if there was an interpreter he could use. In the meantime, he would feed the girl and see if that would make her less animated.

He opened the door to the diner and she walked in.

Whoa, said Ally, the owner of Ally’s Diner. That is some fetching getup, young lady.

Ally owned and operated the local diner. She had known Ross since he was a child. Ally looked Daz up and down, nodding her approval.

That’s exactly the kind of body I had a donkey’s age ago, said Ally. Before I opened this chum bucket and started chowing down on my own vittles. Ha-ha.

She doesn’t understand you, Ally, said Ross. I barely do.

What, am I speaking too fast? Or is she deaf? asked Ally. Then she turned to the girl and spoke very slowly. Honey, I’m sorry if you’re deaf, I didn’t mean anything by it. I was just saying, that’s all.

She still doesn’t understand you, he said again. And she’s not deaf. She just speaks a different language.

Mail-order bride? asked Ally.

Yeah, FedEx just delivered her, said Ross sarcastically. Doc Ben helped me un-crate her. He put the batteries in, while I screwed her head on.

What language does she speak? Is it Spanish? asked Ally.

No, not Spanish, said Ross. I think she’s from Asia or somewhere. She speaks an unusual foreign language.

Asia? Well, I can cook her up some chow mein, or chop suey, offered Ally.

Ally was not the brightest bulb in the chandelier, but she had a sweet disposition. She had run the diner since before Ross was born, and was loved by everyone in town and most of the county, too. And her pies were the best in the state.

We’ll just order off the menu, Ally.

Daz was studying the place, the same way she had at the department store. Even crossing the street, she had been looking at everything around as if it was all new to her. She seemed so inquisitive about her surroundings.

As Ross was looking at the menu, Daz walked over to the counter where Ally was tossing a salad. The girl pointed to the salad and spoke again. Then she hurried over to Ross and dragged him to the counter. She pointed emphatically at the bowl of greens and tomatoes and spoke in her language.

Ross, she said, as she pointed at the salad. Ross.

I think she wants the house salad, Ross, said Ally.

I’m getting that same message, Ally, said Ross, sarcastically. Make it two, please. And two Cokes.

Is Pepsi okay? asked Ally.

What, are you filming a TV commercial? Where’s Cardi B? asked Ross, as he looked around the diner. Yes, Ally, Pepsi is okay.

Ross led Daz to one of the booths, and he sat down. He expected her to sit across from him in the booth like normal people would do, but instead, she sat down beside Ross, moving in close. He slid over a bit as she got cozy. But he wasn’t complaining. Must be a custom in her country, he thought. Ally brought the salads and two glasses of Pepsi. Daz watched as Ross sipped his drink through the straw, then she did the same. She took a big sip, swallowed it, then opened her mouth wide and held her breath. She looked at Ross, then went back to the straw, and took another drink. She said something that Ross took as meaning ‘tastes good’, or so he guessed.

Daz watched Ross use the cutlery to eat the salad and again copied him. She finished all of it without stopping. Then she turned to Ross and bowed her head slightly, and Ross did the same in response. Her customs were unusual, thought Ross, but kind of fun, too. Especially the part about sitting beside him. And holding hands.

Would you and your girlfriend like some blueberry pie and ice cream? asked Ally.

She’s not my girlfriend, said Ross. And I think we’re okay with just the salads. Thanks.

Well, if she ain’t your girlfriend, is she one of them Spice Girls? laughed Ally.

Yeah, she’s No Tip Spice, said Ross. If you keep up the girlfriend jokes.

I was only kidding about her being your girlfriend, said Ally. But maybe she would be if you bought her pie and ice cream. It has been close to three years now, Ross, and you need to—

I don’t need to hear about it, Ally, interrupted Ross. One wedding is enough for me.

Wed-ding, said Daz.

Hey, I thought you said she doesn’t speak English, said Ally.

She doesn’t. At least I don’t think she does, said Ross. She just repeats the odd word.

The important word, said Ally. Not the odd word.

Just then Sheriff Wade Cooper opened the door and walked in, took off his hat, and made his way over to Ross’s booth. He sat down opposite Ross and the girl, setting his hat on the table. He nodded at Ross, then turned to Ally.

Can I get a Coke? he asked Ally.

Is Pepsi okay? said Daz and Ally, both at the same time.

Sure, said Sheriff Cooper. To both of you.

The Sheriff looked at Ross, and he just shook his head.

This is Dazensha, said Ross. I found her wandering in the desert.

Doc Ben said she doesn’t speak English, said Cooper.

Well, she can say Pepsi, and she repeats a few words, said Ross. But I’m not sure she even knows what she’s saying.

I see, said Sheriff Cooper. And she was just wandering in the desert?

Yeah, said Ross. Wandering aimlessly.

Well, wandering’s not a crime, even if it is aimlessly, said the Sheriff. Neither is speaking a different language. Or having no I.D. either. So, I don’t know what I can do, or whether I even need to do anything. She seems to be okay. More importantly, Doc Ben seems to think she’s fine.

Yeah, I mean, clearly she’s not hurt or anything. I just was kind of wondering what she’s saying, that’s all, said Ross. Or even who she is.

I guess I could run her prints, see if anything turns up, said Sheriff Cooper, scratching his head. But she would have to give consent. I can’t force her to do that, since she hasn’t done anything illegal.

I can vouch for her, said Ross. I can give my consent.

Because you found her? asked the Sheriff. That would be okay if she was a puppy. But humans usually require something a bit more by the book.

I think we owe it to her to help her, Sheriff, said Ross. And look, she’s been holding my hand since I met her. That’s got to mean something.

He held up his hand, and sure enough, Daz was holding on tightly. Sheriff Cooper gave an approving look, chugged down his Pepsi, put on his hat, and stood up.

Holding your hand? asked the Sheriff, chuckling. In your case, that can only mean—

Nope, Ross cut him off. Don’t even go there, Sheriff.

You brought it up, Ross. Anyway, bring her over to the office later, said Sheriff Cooper. And figure out where she’s staying, too.

Staying? asked Ross. I hadn’t... uh... given that any thought.

Ally laughed when she heard that comment. She had been listening from the counter.

Out with the old, in with the new, said Ally.

Oh, and take her back over to the Doc’s, said Cooper, standing in the doorway. He’s got some results from her blood work.

He tipped his hat to Ally and left.

SO DID ANYTHING SHOW up in her blood that might explain why she fainted, Ben? asked Ross.

Doctor Ben Tucker shook his head as he studied the sheets of paper in his hand. He flipped the pages onto his desk.

Not a darn thing, he said.

And yet you look a little puzzled, said Ross. Is she okay? He glanced over at Daz, who was inspecting a globe of the earth on the doctor’s shelf.

Okay is an understatement, said Ben. All her tests came back right in the normal range.

So that’s good, isn’t it? asked Ross.

It’s better than good, Ross. Her results are not just within the proper range, they are all exactly near the ideal. Like, not a little high or a little low, just exactly perfect, he said.

Well, look at her, said Ross. She looks to be in great shape. I mean, fitness-wise. I can’t see an ounce of fat on her.

I’m sure you’ve checked her over pretty good, too, said Ben, as he turned to study the beautiful young woman.

Tekka, said Daz, holding the globe. They were both watching her, and she smiled at them.

That’s Earth, said Ross, as he walked over and patted the globe.

Tekka, she said again.

Earth, said Ross.

Tekka.

Earth.

Is this going to go on long? asked Ben. I’ve got other patients waiting.

Ross put the globe back on the shelf.

Earth, he mumbled under his breath.

Tekka, said Daz, very quietly.

ROSS AND DAZ WALKED over to the Sheriff’s office, hand in hand. With Ross’s guidance and reassurance, Daz allowed the deputies to take her fingerprints. They also took a photo of her to circulate throughout Nevada, in case anyone recognized her. Ross had Sheriff Cooper google the word Tekka to see what language it was, as that was what she seemed to call Earth. But nothing showed up except that it meant a root vegetable of some sort. Tekka did not translate to mean Earth in any language. When Ross learned that he gave a ‘see I told you’ look at Daz.

What was her name again? asked Sheriff Cooper.

Daz, said Ross. Dazensha.

Can you get her to write that down, said the Sheriff. I can see if she’s in the system.

She already did, said Ross. He handed the Sheriff the slip of paper with her name on it. Sheriff Cooper took a look at the writing, scratched his head, then looked up at Ross.

Guess it would be kind of pointless to ask her last name, said the Sheriff.

I think she’s from out of the country anyway, said Ross.

Got an address for her? asked the Sheriff.

Just use my place, said Ross. I’ll crash on the couch.

I don’t need to know the sleeping arrangements, said Sheriff Cooper. So, if anything comes up on her prints or the photo, I can call you on your cell, or I can find her out at your place?

Yeah, sure, said Ross. She’s got no place else to stay, and she has no money, so why not?

It’s been my experience in cases like this that things sort themselves out over time, said the Sheriff. Likely she wandered off from a party or she got forgotten from a tour bus. Sooner or later, someone will come looking for her and the mystery will be solved.

I guess you’re right, Sheriff. She must have someone somewhere missing her. Anyway, I’m going to take her back to my place and let her rest, said Ross.

Might want to get her something different to wear, said the Sheriff. Otherwise, people might start talking.

They’re already talking, said Ross. Then he turned to Daz. Let’s go home.

Salad? she asked. Pepsi?

He smiled and nodded to her.

Salad and Pepsi to go, he agreed.

Salad and Pepsi, she said. Ross and Daz to go.

Ross looked around the office to see if anyone had heard that. Sheriff Cooper was looking at the ceiling and started whistling. The other deputies turned back to the papers on their desks. Damn, thought Ross, they all heard. By tomorrow the whole town will be talking about it.

Chapter 3

Home

ROSS OWNED A PIECE of land a few miles outside of town, and on that land was an old gas station that closed down back in the 80s. There had been plans back then to open up a new highway near the town, but when that fell through, the gas station died a quick death. A few years back, Ross had bought the property and had been planning on renovating the building into a dream house. But that dream had also died along with his dream of a future with his ex, and the old gas station had sat dormant for almost three years now. He currently hung his hat in a small house trailer adjacent, which looked as dilapidated as the gas station.

This is home, he said, as he led her to the trailer.

Home, repeated Daz.

She stopped and gave the trailer a good going over, and also looked over to the old gas station.

Don’t judge me, he said. I know it’s pretty run down. But when she ran off with that guy, I kind of lost interest in finishing the project. Hope they both get the clap. He didn’t mind telling the new girl the details of his past, because he knew she didn’t understand a word he was saying.

Come on inside, said Ross. He opened the door and let Daz enter. She went in slowly and, as always, she studied it all. She turned and smiled at him, then just stood there.

Oh, he said. He motioned her to follow him and he led her a few feet to the bedroom in the back. I’ll put clean sheets for you, he said, more to himself than to her.

She sat on the bed, testing the firmness. Then she looked up at Ross.

Daz? she asked, patting the queen bed.

Yes, he said. Daz.

Ross? she patted the other side of the bed.

No, he said. No. I wish, but... no. Not that you aren’t gorgeous and all, but no.

She looked around, obviously wondering where he would sleep. She peered back into the main part of the trailer, pointing in that direction. She had a puzzled look on her face.

Ross? she asked.

Yes, he said. He led her to the couch in the center of the trailer and patted it.

Ross, he said. Ross sleeps here. Daz sleeps there.

No, Daz sleep here, she said as she patted the couch. Ross sleep there.

Wow, he marveled. You learn fast. I mean, you learn English fast. Amazing. But I already decided. Tonight, you get the bed and I get the couch. Okay?

She only smiled.

THEY ATE THEIR SALADS and drank Pepsi, and all the while Ross taught her new English words. He thought he might be trying to push too much on her at once, but she seemed to have such an incredible memory. After they finished eating, he turned on the television for her. He remembered hearing people tell him how they had learned to speak a foreign language by watching a lot of TV in the foreign language. Seemed worth a try to him.

She was fixated on the television, and Ross just knew she was absorbing a lot of the English language. Every so often she mouthed a word that she heard on the TV, and nodded her head as if she had filed it away in a part of her brain. She seemed to have an insatiable thirst for knowledge of any kind. He imagined he would be the same if he was in her country, wherever that would be. Ross had only ever been to Mexico and he recalled how he had been fascinated with the culture and foods. And the tequila. But he had not picked up Spanish as quickly as Daz was learning English. He blamed that on all the alcohol he and Peter and Ben had consumed on their spring break trip to Puerto Vallarta quite a few years ago. Most nights in Mexico Ross recalled having a difficult time remembering how to even speak English.

As night fell it got cooler in the valley. Ross started a small fire in the fire pit, and he and Daz sat outside. He set the grill over the fire and dropped a couple of burger patties on. As he cooked the hamburgers Daz was studying the night sky. Being as they were in such a remote area, far from town and with no lights anywhere near, every star in the sky was visible. She pointed to a part of the sky and tugged on Ross’s shirt.

Mest, she said. Mest.

I don’t know the names of the stars, Daz, he said, shaking his head. Sorry.

No, she said. She pointed to the same area of the sky. Mest... Mest.

Oh, he caught on. So, you do know some of the star names. And that’s Mest. Good to know. In case anyone asks. Come on, Daz. Have a burger.

He gave her a plate with a bun on it, then placed a cooked patty on top, adding tomato and onion, a slice of cheese, lettuce, and a dollop of ketchup.

Hamburger, he said proudly.

Ham-burger, repeated Daz. She bit into it and her eyes opened wide as she tasted it. She took another bite.

What do you think, he asked. Is it good?

Ham-burger! Wow!

She looked so sweet and innocent and Ross had that feeling inside. The feeling you get when you are about to fall in love with someone. He knew it was coming. She was holding the burger with both hands, smiling as she chewed, and a little ketchup leaked out of the corner of her mouth. Her tongue darted out and licked up the ketchup and she giggled as she did it. How can a girl look so damned sexy eating a burger, he wondered? If she’s not a model, he thought, then she’s in the wrong line of work. And he smiled at her.

I love you, he said. He knew she didn’t understand. That’s why he said it. He hadn’t said it to anyone for so long, so he just let it out. And it felt good saying it. Even if she didn’t know what it meant. And even if he wasn’t sure if he really loved her or not ... yet.

I love you, she repeated.

No, he said, suddenly regretting what he had said. No, forget that. Don’t repeat that to anyone, Daz.

But he already knew it was too late. She had an incredible memory and she would not forget that phrase. He just wondered at what inappropriate and embarrassing time she would blurt it out.

No? she asked, shaking her head.

No, he said. But he meant yes.

ROSS TWISTED ON THE narrow couch, trying to find a more comfortable position, which was proving to be quite impossible. It was chilly, he was only wearing his boxers, and the thin blanket was not enough. He reached above his head to where his phone was sitting on a small end table. He rubbed his eyes a couple of times and could barely make out that it was 2:37 in the morning. It was silent in the trailer and he listened to see if he could hear her breathing. He could, but it sounded so loud like she was very close. She should be sleeping in the bed, that’s where he had left her. He sat up and swung his feet off the couch and just about stepped on her.

What the—? he said. Daz. Is that you?

Yes, I am Daz, she said.

Why are you here, sleeping on the floor? he reached down and his hand brushed against her face, and he felt tears on her cheek. Are you crying? he asked her.

Daz alone, she said quietly, as she sat up.

Are you frightened? asked Ross. Afraid of something? Did you have a nightmare?

Ross sleep there, she pointed to the queen bed.

No, I won’t let you sleep here, on this couch, he said. Or on the floor.

Daz sleep there. Ross sleep there, she said, pointing to the bed.

Ross sat down beside her and took her hand in his. She immediately put her head on his shoulder. He felt a different feeling towards her when she did that. It was as if he needed to protect her or to show compassion to her. The feeling seemed innocent, and definitely not sexual.

Can’t you sleep alone? he asked, as he held her close.

Alone? Daz, no, she said. Ross go there.

She pointed to the bedroom.

Okay, he said. I can sleep beside you, Daz. If it will make you stop crying.

They walked to the back bedroom and Ross climbed into the bed on the far side. A glimmer of moonlight was shining through the window, and he watched as she removed her skintight clothing. She was nude, and looked absolutely perfect, and yet he only felt like holding her and making her feel safe.

She slid into bed beside him and cuddled in close, her arm draped over his chest. He could see her face, and that the tears had stopped. She was smiling as she closed her eyes.

I love... home, she said, as she fell asleep.

DAZ WAS STILL SLEEPING when Ross slipped out of bed. He brewed a pot of coffee and cooked bacon and eggs. He left her in bed, then he sat outside on the deck, and called Peter on the phone.

How can you fall in love with a girl in one day? asked Peter.

It’s a day and a few hours, actually. And it’s called love at first sight, said Ross, defending his actions. Have you ever heard of it?

Yeah, that happened to me when my dad gave me my first new bicycle, said Peter. I fell in love with that bike.

Hey, it happened to you, it can happen to me, said Ross.

You’re not thirteen years old, Ross, said Peter. And she’s not a bike, so you can’t ride her.

There was silence for a moment.

Strike that last comment, said Peter. But you know what I mean. Look what happened last time you fell for a girl.

I know, I know, said Ross. But Daz is different, Pete. She is... irresistible. I don’t know how else to put it.

You slept with her, didn’t you? asked Peter. With the girl who can’t speak English.

No, said Ross. I mean, yes I slept with her, but no, we didn’t... you know...

There’s nothing wrong with casual sex, reminded Peter. I mean, three years is a long time to go between oil changes.

Hey, I’ve dated other girls since... since...

Since Beckie dumped the unhappy meal and moved up to the big breakfast with extra sausage! laughed Peter.

Me and Daz, we didn’t have sex, insisted Ross. You might as well know. My life is like public domain anyway. If you don’t hear it from me, you’ll hear it from one of those blue-haired old bats in town.

Well, if that’s true then maybe the girl’s a keeper, said Peter. What does she look like? A Barbie doll?

Ahh, you’ve been talking to Ben, said Ross. You really shouldn’t listen to anything he says about girls. I think he’s gay. Not that there’s anything wrong with being gay.

He’s not gay, said Peter. He’s banging Audrey.

What? said Ross. But she’s like ten years older than he is.

Fifteen, actually, but who’s counting. Women age like fine wine, buddy, offered Peter. Now, when am I gonna meet this irresistible girlfriend of yours?

Tomorrow, said Ross. And she’s not my girlfriend... yet. I have to pick up a new lens for my camera in Vegas or else we would be heading your way today. Anyway, I’ll bring that photo that I promised you. Daz and I will drive down to your place from Vegas, and should be there early tomorrow afternoon.

Circus Circus has a deal on their Honeymoon Suite, said Peter.

You are such an asshole, said Ross.

I’ll get the gym ready, said Peter.

The gym was an old barn out behind Peter’s house, over in Tonopah, which had been renovated into a workout area. The centerpiece was a roped-off boxing ring. As for getting it ready, Ross thought that probably meant putting a six-pack of Coors in the fridge.

By the way, you sound funny, said Peter. "Am I on speakerphone?

Oops, said Ross. My bad.

You’re such an idi— Ross ended the call before Peter could finish.

Barbie doll, said Daz.

Ross spun around and there she was. Looking as stunning as ever. Barbie doll, indeed.

Hi, said Ross. You heard.

Barbie doll. I see on TV, she said. Barbie doll pretty?

I guess, for a toy, said Ross.

Daz pretty? she asked. For a toy.

You are not a toy, Daz, Ross didn’t quite know what to say. And if you’re asking if I think you’re pretty...

Yes. I ask, she told him.

He looked at her and knew instantly that she was a lot more than pretty. She was beautiful, gorgeous, ravishing and so much more than simply