Polly was sitting at the kitchen table drinking a glass of milk. Howie grabbed a glass of water and sat down beside her.

"Remember when we were kids how we used to steal cookies out of the jar and mom always seemed to know who did it?" Polly asked.

"Yeah I do, it scared me. I thought mom was an alien or something with super powers."

Polly laughed softly, "I wanted a cookie, but there aren't any in the jar."

"I'll make you some cookies tomorrow."

"You're so sweet, but you don't have to."

"I want to. Do you have any idea how long it's been since I've cooked anything?"

"Not a clue."

"Too long."

Polly drained the milk from her glass and got up from her chair, "Good night Howie. I love you."

"Love you too Polly."

Howie drank the rest of his water and went back to his room. He curled up under the covers next to Rae. When he finally fell asleep, he dreamt of Caroline and Polly when they were kids, stealing cookies out of the jar. He mumbled something to Caroline in his sleep, waking Rae.

She looked at him and smiled. He looked so peaceful. She kissed his cheek softly and went back to sleep.

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