The five of us had a dinner full of laughter. Dad was clearly uncomfortable at first, but Sam and I kept our displays of affection to a minimum and he soon warmed up. Mom, Sam, and I regaled the boys with tales of our day spending money. Joe didn’t have much to talk about, since he was still grounded for another week. He begged to get off a day early so he could go to the dance, but Dad didn’t budge an inch. Too bad for the next what’s-her-name.

After the meal, Sam and I retreated upstairs to get comfortable. I showed her the bathroom and my bedroom, then left...