On the following Monday morning, I descended the stairs to find my father seated in the dining room, sipping coffee while reading the newspaper.
"Good morning, Dad," I greeted him as I made my way into the kitchen.
He lowered the newspaper and replied, "Good morning, sweetheart."
Continuing into the kitchen, I noticed Sarah at the stove. "Good morning," I said, moving to the refrigerator to pour myself a glass of orange juice.
"Good morning, dear," Sarah responded. I took a seat at the breakfast bar on a stool. "Would you like a ride to school?" she inquired, setting a plate of eggs and toast in front of me.
"No, I'm going with Michael," I replied.
Sarah raised her eyebrows and smiled knowingly. "Ah, your boyfriend," she remarked.
I have not disclosed to Dad or Sarah that Michael is
