22
Paul put the luggage in the bedroom. Dani handed him a bottle of beer when he returned to the living room.
“Paul, Dani tells us you’ve been doing some renovation on the family home. Where do you find the time?” Mom asked.
Dani cringed. “Mom, don’t pester Paul with questions.”
“Dani, it’s fine.” He took a swig of beer.
“Mrs. Michaels.”
“Oh, please. Don’t call me Mrs. anything. I’m Olivia, and my husband is Mason.”
Paul smiled. “All right, Olivia, fire away.”
Dani cringed. “Dad?”
“Sorry, honey, you know your mother.” He held up his hands in a grand gesture of helplessness.
For the next ten minutes, Mom peppered Paul with questions about his family, education, friends, and job. Apparently satisfied, she smiled at Dani.
“I’m feeling a little hungry. What time did you say we’re ea
