Windmills of the Gods. Sidney Sheldon

with him.’

      ‘I thought you were in love with George Michael.’

      ‘I burn for George Michael. I’m in love with Rick Springfield. Mother, in your day didn’t you ever burn for anybody?’

      ‘In my day we were too busy trying to get the covered wagons across the country.’

      Beth sighed. ‘Did you know Rick Springfield had a rotten childhood?’

      ‘To be perfectly honest, Beth, I was not aware of that.’

      ‘It was awful. His father was in the military and they moved around a lot. He’s a vegetarian, too. Like me. He’s awesome.’

       So that’s what’s behind Beth’s crazy diet!

      ‘Mother, may I go to a movie Saturday night with Virgil?’

      ‘Virgil? What happened to Arnold?’

      There was a pause. ‘Arnold wanted to fool around. He’s dorky.’

      Mary forced herself to sound calm. ‘By “fooling around”, you mean –?’

      ‘Just because I’m starting to get breasts the boys think I’m easy. Mom, did you ever feel uncomfortable about your body?’

      Mary moved up behind Beth and put her arms around her. ‘Yes, my darling. When I was about your age, I felt very uncomfortable.’

      ‘I hate having my period and getting breasts and hair all over. Why?’

      ‘It happens to every girl, and you’ll get used to it.’

      ‘No, I won’t.’ She pulled away and said fiercely, ‘I don’t mind being in love, but I’m never going to have sex. No one’s going to make me. Not Arnold or Virgil or Kevin Bacon.’