Joey's parents came to visit us.

It was the first time I saw my sister looking so uneasy.

They sat across from us, scrutinizing us with piercing gazes.

His mother pulled out a stack of cash and spoke earnestly:

"Miss White, we sympathize with your situation and circumstances."

"Please consider our feelings as well; we have only Joey as our child."

"We hope he can be healthy and happy and marry a girl who doesn't come with burdens."

My sister returned the money, promising to clarify things with Joey and cut ties completely.

I wanted to argue my case, insisting that it was Joey who had been relentlessly pursuing her...