As we ended Book 4, Janet had at last challenged her father and won his respect. Ward was enjoying the success of his pupil. Janet was afraid for Steve and fearful of being found out. John was dealing with his deep suppressed feelings from Atlanta. Both John and Janet were aware, curious, and respectful of the others' privacy. John was winning the respect of the men at the mill. And Janet was determined not to let his interest in her wander. Sad for me, the lonely onlooker. But I had my modeling career and my aloofness to protect me. Christmas was upon us! And now there are 13 days left in Janet's vacation campaign. In addition to watching Janet and John, my life entered a new phase. Starting with a surprise at the Christmas Eve church service.

And then I learned that being an observer with one toe in the water, you can suddenly find yourself at the deep end of the pool! I'm about to meet Joanie Logan, the person who will become a friend who will teach me so much, and the friend I have never forgotten. -- Diane.