Randall Pride. Judy Christenberry

want you to miss your movie,” Elizabeth protested.

      Megan took her hand and headed for the stairs.

      Once they were in Elizabeth’s bedroom, with the door closed, Megan asked, “What’s wrong?”

      “Dad asked Toby to talk to me about Cleve.”

      “He didn’t!” She stared at her daughter. “I guess he did. But darling, you know it’s because he loves you.”

      “I know, Mom, but it’s a little embarrassing.”

      “Better to be embarrassed than to ruin your life,” Megan said quietly.

      “Oh, Mom, not you, too?”

      Megan grinned. “Yeah, me, too. I haven’t said anything because I think you’ll figure it out soon, unless…well, unless you’ve gotten too involved with him? You’re not pregnant, are you?”

      “Mom!” Elizabeth protested. “Absolutely not!”

      “Thank goodness.”

      “Look, I just need some time. Will you please trust me to do the right thing?”

      “You mean you’re going to—”

      “I’m going to do the right thing for me. I’m asking you to trust me.”

      “Of course I trust you, darling. Did Toby’s talk help you decide—”

      “No! Mr. Arrogance himself called the kettle black, but I couldn’t tell much difference between the two of them.”

      “Oh. Then how did you—”