Bernard laughed. "It wasn't that bad, was it? That was just my parents performing theater 101 for you, though. They don't do that for just anyone; they said, believe me, I am an expert on this subject and you would do well to agree with me."

"Lucky me," she uttered sarcastically as Bernard opened the door for them and she preceded him in.

The elderly Babalolas were sitting in the living room, patiently waiting for her. Marissa went toward them immediately. "Mr. and Mrs. Babalola, I am sorry about..."

"Oh, she has a child!" the older woman exclaimed in delight.

"Yes, I…" Marissa started defensively, but she saw their delight...