They were quiet for a moment. Then Vera said, “I can tell that something is bothering you. Your dad told me about the archery contest.”

“It was all Kyle’s fault.”

“He’s exactly like Robbie. A lovable scamp. But I think your new boyfriend did something Kyle didn’t like.”

“That’s not fair. Hayes never shows his true self to people. He has a guard around himself and only lets in people he truly trusts.”

“I’ve seen women who had to follow behind their husbands apologizing for them. It wears you out, body and mind.”

“It’s not like that!” Mike said. “I don’t have to apologize for Hayes. Most people say he’s charming.”

“That’s good.” At Mike’s rising temper, Vera changed the subject. “So tell me what you think I should do about this bio. Do I help or not?”

“The problem will be you. Griff wants to know about you personally. Not just about some war you covered. He’ll want to know what you did in the cellar.”

Vera laughed. “We made you. Think he wants to hear about that? Your father is a fabulous lover. He—”

“Stop it!”

Vera was smiling. “With your help I could do it. Think you can get along with Griff well enough? Miguel told me you threw lemonade in his face.”

“He’s okay.”

“That’s all?”

Mike couldn’t help smiling. “We just had some laughs playing the carnival games.”

“Games? Forey told me that this morning you did that with your young man. Hayes.”

“Yes, he and I went to them, but I didn’t play. I didn’t want to ruin the day.”

“By winning?” Her tone was disapproving.

Mike’s face showed her annoyance. “Didn’t you ever try to impress a man? I’m too much like you. Put me in a contest and I play to win. Cutthroat. I thought it would hurt the romance if I beat Hayes and it did. The archery was proof of that.”

“What about Griff? Did you hold back for him?”

“Ha! I beat him whenever I could.”

“And how did he react?”

“He just laughed.” She glared at her mother. “The difference is that I’m not in a romantic relationship with Griffin.” She sat up and looked at her watch. “I have to go. I need to find Kelly and see if she needs me.”

“You’re the one who takes care of us all.” Vera frowned. “So much responsibility for one so young. I wish you could have more fun and less drudgery.”

Mike stood up. “I do have fun. Lots of it. You’ll be at the parade tomorrow?”

“Of course. And you’ll be there with your phone and overseeing it all?”

“Yes, I will. Do you need anything? I can get you barbecue or a drink. Pie? Ice cream?”

“Delivered by one of those half-naked firefighters?”