The six of them continued their meal at The Local Diner.
William and Martha Anderson, along with their new friend Joyce Carlson sat on one side of the booth. If anyone had a comment about the fact that Joyce sat in-between the Andersons, it went unsaid. The fact that Joyce had spent a wonderful (in the opinion of everyone involved) night of great sexual activity with the married couple was a private matter between the three of them. Yet if asked, none of the adults would deny it. In fact, all were hoping to have another such encounter at some point in the future.
While no one was currently displaying their fursonas, two members of the Skulk were sitting with a bi-werecat.
On the other side of the booth sat what some might consider the were-mer contingent.
Eric Anderson sat next to his fiance Julie Stovall, with her mother at the other end. It was easy to see that the ladies were related, each with their long blonde hair and similar looks. The two families would eventually be joined when Eric married Julie.
"You two definitely make a cute couple," observed Joyce, while staring at Eric and Julie.
"Thanks," replied Julie, while Eric actually blushed.
"Have you set a date yet?" wondered Joyce, noting the single pearl necklace Julie proudly wore. Her mother was wearing a similar necklace, but Mrs. Stovall's reflected her long years of marriage to Martin with a lot more pearls.
"Specifically? No," answered Eric, "but definitely the summer between graduating high school and starting college. Although that seems like an eternity away right now," he added, while glancing at Julie.
Joyce lowered her voice a bit and said, "I know what you mean, especially considering how long us weres live. But don't be in a rush. Enjoy life to its fullest whenever you get the chance. I know I look like I'm barely into my early 20s, but I'll be 50 next year," she bragged. "I've seen so much already in my short time in this world."
"I understand," said Melissa. "Technology has grown by leaps and bounds in just a couple of decades that sometimes I'm amazed that I've managed to keep up with it all."
"I agree. If only I could talk about some of the stuff we're doing at Tachibana Industries..." sighed Joyce. "But that's what Non-Disclosure Agreements are for."
"Mine's the personal computer. What's you're favorite technological development so far? At least, of what you can talk about," wondered Eric.
Joyce thought about it for a moment and then said, "I'd have to say the DVR. Between my work schedule and my fun furry nights, it allows me to keep up with my favorite shows," she added with a smile.
The table was silent for a bit after that as everyone continued to eat, then Julie asked, "Are you married?"
"No," replied Joyce.
"So, you haven't formed a life/soul mate bond with anyone?" wondered Martha, as she looked at her husband William.
Joyce didn't hesitate when saying, "For better or worse, no. I would have no problem doing so when I meet the right person, but that hasn't happened yet."
"I notice you said person..." began Melissa.
"True. I don't think love should have any boundaries or preconditions. Do you?" asked Joyce in return.
"No," agreed Melissa. "Otherwise, things like fourteen year old high school Freshmen already being engaged, let alone some of the other relationships that Moon Lake supports would never have happened," she added, looking at her daughter and fiance.
"True," said Joyce. "This place is so amazing. I just wonder sometimes if we'd be as open as progressive as we are if the fur factor wasn't involved?" she asked, while using both hands to briefly form a W with her fingers.
Not having an answer, Melissa Stovall just shrugged her shoulders.
The waitress came and, after making sure no one wanted anything else, left the check upside down on the table.
William went to reach for it, when another hand grabbed it before he could.
"Allow me," said Martin Stovall, as he grabbed a chair from a nearby table and pulled it up to their booth.
"Dad!" said Julie happily, as Eric said "Mister Stovall," since he could only call his fiance's parents by their first names when they were alone.
"Sorry I'm late everybody. Rough morning at the office," said Martin by way of apology, while looking over the check.
"So I've heard," replied Melissa, while smiling at her husband.
"Okay. I know everybody here but you Miss..." Martin prompted.
"Joyce Carlson," she replied, holding out her hand for a brief handshake.
"Pleased to meet you," said Martin.
"Likewise. I voted for you in the last election."
"Oh. A fan. Hope I'm doing a good job," commented the Mayor of Moon Lake.
"Wouldn't have voted for you otherwise," Joyce replied.
"Well, I hope I keep up my job performance so I have your vote again next time," said Martin, before turning to the others. "Okay, I know I'm late to this little gathering, but I'm hungry. Who'd like some dessert while I have an early lunch?"
"Me," answered Melissa, wondering if she might now be eating for two.