Dear Bill.
I am writing to apologize. I do not know what came over me when I introduced you to my coworkers as my stepfather. Of course I know you and Mom are not married, not even living together, it just slipped out.
I am sorry if I embarrassed you and grateful you did not correct me when I did it.
Again, sorry.
And thanks for the ride home last Sunday. Gregg still has not apologized for leaving me stranded at Mom's. Sorry it cost you a long drive.
Julie
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Dear Julie
Absolutely no need to apologize. I was in fact proud that you introduced me as your stepfather and I hope you have not felt the need to correct that impression at work.
Your friends treated me kindly and please thank Glenda for flirting with me. She made me feel young and sexy.
Feel free to call me any time you find yourself needing a ride anywhere. I know your husband is not the most reliable person around and I want you to know that you will never be stranded as long as my car and I can get our engines started.
How is Carolyn liking school?
Bill
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Dear Bill
I was so glad to read your e-mail. I wrote you because Mom said I should. She said that even though you two have been dating for years I was making improper assumptions.
I was sure you would not mind when I did it but Mom put the concern in my mind so I just had to write you.
No I have not corrected the impression at work and now I do not see the need to do so.
Glenda said to tell you she wants your body. I hate to tell you but she wants every handsome man's body. She also told me you are way too young to be my Dad.
That part is true.
Your self appointed granddaughter loves school, for now.
Did you notice the picture of the two of you in my office? She insisted I put a picture of her and "Grandpa" on my desk.
She only calls you Bill when mother is around because Mom corrected her a couple of times when Carolyn asked where her grandpa was. To her you are the only grandfather she has, the only one she has ever known.
A special thanks for volunteering to cover me in case of transportation problems. You may be the only reliable person in my life.
Love
Julie
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Dear Julie
Being a part of your life is important to me. Do not hesitate to call on me for anything.
I heard from your mother that your idiot husband will be taking off on a week-long fishing trip and will not be around for Carolyn's birthday.
Your Mom does not know if her schedule will permit her to be there either but rest assured I will be there with balloons and presents.
Sorry for calling Greg an idiot but he obviously is. A guy that would leave the two most precious ladies in the world to go fishing IS an idiot.
Let me know if you want me to bring anything else.
Love
Bil
l
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Dearest Bill
I want to thank you over and over again for making Carolyn's birthday party the hit of the season of the kindergarten set. When Mom could not make it I panicked thinking Glenda and I would not be able to control all the little heathens. You had a magical way with them and, except for my own brat not wanting to share her grandpa with anybody, it all went a lot better than expected.
She loved your present and wanted to take it to school today. I printed out one of the pictures you took of her with it and sent her to school with that.
By the way, on one of the pictures of me lighting the candles the camera saw well down my sun dress. I trust that picture will remain very private. I do not want Mom seeing it. She thinks I'm making a pass at you every time you are here as it is.
Again, thanks for everything.
Love. Julie
ps. the roses for me were very very much appreciated. Carolyn expects some soon. So does Glenda.
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Dear Julie
The party was fun for me too. I did have a talk with Carolyn about selfishness and good manners. I am sure that we will need to repeat that talk several times over the next few years.
The flowers were because it was your birth day too.
My favorite part was when the heathens were gone, the place cleaned up, and Carolyn was sound asleep on the floor amid her toys. You and I were cuddled together on the couch drinking wine and enjoying the silence.
I was glad you did not mind the kiss. It just seemed like the natural thing to do. If I close my eyes I can still feel your lips on mine. I am keeping that as my present.