“I’ll just be a minute!” he called.
The television was still making noise, but Maria did not hear it. She sat thinking, her mind running in a thousand different directions. Listening to Shane and Lilly tonight had answered many questions and raised several new concerns. She still worried her parents might never speak to her again, but doubtful that would occur. Hearing Lilly’s account of her mother’s overenthusiastic reaction caused Maria to worry her own mother might try to take over as well. She didn’t want them out of the picture, but she wanted control of her life.
Of course, the future was uncertain. One day she might need her parent’s support again. Shane and Lilly were still together, but only time would tell if James would remain at her side.
Entering the restaurant, James and M
