“It worked, didn't it?"

I nodded and started for the sofa, sinking down on one side while Amber sat down at the other end while facing me.

"I knew it was you," I said quietly.

“Sometimes... She had an enigmatic look.

"I think there were three or four times you were certain, but by the time you started fucking me you weren't so sure."

I shrugged.

“It was your bush. When did you grow it out?"

“This past year. I haven't had a boyfriend in a while so there really wasn't a need to keep it shaved down."

“You dyed that red, too?"

She nodded.

“E-Beth's idea. She figured that no matter how good the makeup or contacts or dye-job was, a blonde bush would give everything away."

“Red is... I mean I like red... but..

“I like the blonde better too," she managed a smile.

I sighed and we sat there in awkward silence for another minute.

“Why, Amber? Why go to all these lengths to try and trick me?"

“I had to be with you, David. One way or another. You know I talked to Danielle and Cherys, Kevin and Jen, and E-Beth and they all agreed on one thing."

“What's that?"

“We needed to fuck. You wouldn't be able to clear your head until we did. And we couldn't fuck until you cleared your head. So we either get stuck in a chicken or egg cycle, or I dye my hair red and try to seduce you."

“That doesn't make any sense."

“Is your head clearer now?"

"Yes," I admitted.

“Then stop trying to make sense of WHY. Just accept that it worked." “To what end?"

"The only end I ever wanted. To get us back together."

“I still don't understand why you want that so badly. Amber sighed heavily.

"I tried telling you on the golf course."