MR. CURMUDGEON
Neglecting their sex life during a week of overtime
work and family activities, they'd finally managed
to make time for a strenuous bout of lovemaking on
Friday night. Barba lay sprawled on his back, sweaty
and breathless, as his erection waned. Benson was
on her side facing her husband, one hand under the
pillow, the other making its way to Rafael's chest
fingering his matted chest hair. Rafael placed his hand
over hers and grinned.
"What costumes should the kids wear on Halloween?"
asked Olivia.
"Huh?" replied Barba turning his head to stare open-
mouthed at her. "That's what you're thinking of in
the throes of orgasm? What does that say about my
performance?"
"No, no," she said. "Your performance was stellar."
She smiled as she brushed her hand along his jaw and
kissed him.
"It's just that I've been thinking about Halloween all day.
It is only a few weeks away. This is the first year the twins
will be old enough to go out trick or treating. We can ask
your mom to come over to give out the candy. She'll be
happy to see the kids in costume. Then you and I can make
the rounds of the neighborhood with the kids."
"How fun," Rafael said sarcastically. Halloween was not one
of his favorite holidays. His father wouldn't let Rafael and
his sisters go out trick or treating, insisting that the holiday
was a waste of money for costumes and candy.
"I'd rather stay late at work and read briefs," he admitted.
Rafael got out of bed and headed to the bathroom to
clean up.
"Come on, Mr. Curmudgeon," Olivia called after him. "They
grow up so fast. You don't want to miss this. You and I
could even dress up in costume to accompany the kids,"
she offered knowing it would provoke him.
Barba sighed, stopped short, and turned around to
acknowledge partial defeat.
"Unh-unh. If, and I say, if, I agree to go, there will be no
costume on ADA Barba!"