Family Bonds

Chapter 9, Episode 2

"I'm afraid to think about it. But after I've been with him, he's all I can think about." She poured herself another cup, emptying the pot. "I know he wants to go to law school, and I have to get my degree, too. Maybe it's not the right time for us to get serious. I don't even know if he wants to. He's never mentioned it. But he, when he, when I—"

"Your face is all red." Marty giggled. "Maybe you're right. Bad luck to talk about it, unless you're really sure. But, hey, you get to meet his parents. That's a good sign. Seeing him with his family will probably tell you a lot about him and help you decide whether you want to keep seeing him."

She nodded. "I just hope I'm good enough. I mean, I'm just working my way toward getting back into school. I don't have that much to offer ..."

Marty frowned. "Stop putting yourself down. You're a wonderful person. That's what you have to offer. And Chet wouldn't have asked you to meet his family if he didn't think so."

"But he could probably have anyone he wants. You've seen him. And he's going to be a wonderful lawyer. I just know it."

"So he's hot and smart. Doesn't mean much. What if he ends up getting fat and bald when he's old? It's what's in his heart that matters. And how he treats you. Looks don't last. My mom showed me a picture of my dad before they got married. He was to die for—especially in his Army uniform. But he had hair then, and he was buff. Look at him now! They still adore each other. He can't keep his hands off her, even when my brothers and I are in the room. You've seen how lovey-dovey they are. Sometimes it's really embarrassing."

Jane had never seen her mom or Will do that. "I remember. The last time I was at your place—when he came up behind her and put his arms around her and gave her kisses—even though we were there."

"He's always doing that." Marty rose. "Wear that outfit we put together. You'll look terrific! And promise me."

"What?"

"When you're back from the barbecue, I want to hear all about their house and how they act, all the gory details." Marty laughed as she ambled toward the door. "Maybe his mom eats with her fingers and wipes the grease on the tablecloth."

Jane smiled, certain Chet's mom would never dream of doing such a thing.

~ ~ ~

That weekend, Bert called from the kitchen, "Chet's here."

Jane walked out of her room, the gray jacket draped over one arm, her purse clutched in her hand. When she opened the door, Chet winked. He wore a shirt open at the neck and dark slacks.

"Bert, don't forget to heat up that plate I made for you," Jane said. "It's in the fridge."

Bert set down the glass he'd been holding. "Have a nice time. When did you say you'd be home?"

She grinned and patted the stubble on his cheek. "I didn't say, but if I'm going to be late, I'll call you."

"Good evening, Mr. Thomas," Chet said.

"It's Bert, Chet. And don't you forget it."

Chet nodded then murmured to Jane, "You look fabulous!"

She beamed all the way to the car.

As they exited the highway and entered an upscale residential neighborhood, Chet pulled the car to the curb. "You keep squeezing your hands together. Why are you so nervous?"

"Can't help it," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. "I don't want to embarrass you. Do anything wrong. I won't know anyone except you."