again , she reminded herself what this dinner was all about . if you screwed up , they sent you away , to a medium-security prison , one with razor wire and rough guards . his voice rumbles loud as thunder . `` they all respect her and treat her like your old lady . '' a tear carved a tickling line down my cheek , caught at the corner of my mouth by jeff 's lips . the time to fulfill the promise had arrived , he said . 