“You’re talking about Joy? She’s fine…”

“I’m talking about you,” Deirdre said sternly as she looked at her. “Are you all right?”

Laura was stunned for a moment, and understanding soon dawned on her. While she was surprised, she gulped hard and said, “Thank you for your concern, Miss McKinnon, but I… I’m fine. He just has a short temper. But he's actually very nice to me.”

“He’s nice to you?” Deirdre fell silent for a moment and asked, “Is this the answer from your heart, Ms. Smith?”

Laura wa