Finally, Mrs Morales pulled back and wiped at her eyes, laughing a little at herself. "Goodness, I'm a mess. And we haven't even offered you proper hospitality. Have you eaten? Please tell me you'll stay for dinner. I've been cooking all day, and there's more than enough."
"We couldn't impose-" Killian started, but Mrs Morales cut him off with a look that was pure motherly authority.
"Young man, my daughter has just come home after sixteen years. You're staying for dinner, and that's final."
Killian looked at Annie, saw the hope and fear warring in her expression, and made his decision. "Then we'd be honoured."
"Wonderful!" Mrs Morales was already moving toward the kitchen, energy returning to her movements. "Annie, come help me like you used to. We'll make-oh, do you remembe
