Chapter 78. Exceptionally Well

Marissa smiled as she climbed the porch stairs to embrace Tomiwa"You mean as opposed to my fainting look? Yeah, I agree," she teased.

Tomiwa laughed "No, I was not referring to that; you look good any day, anytime, you know; you are one helluva woman. Let me tell you a secret." Tomiwa dropped her voice theatrically.

"Yeah? What secret?" Marissa whispered, playing along.

"I envy you! I mean, look at you! I am but a frumpy old maid next to you," she sighed dramatically.

Marissa laughed, "Now you are just being extra and a flatterer too. Whoever mistook you for frumpy, not to mention old, must need his or her eyes checked. Thank you for the compliment, though, oh you beautiful queen," she courtesied, and they both laughed.

"Oh wow, look at me go! Emma would surely approve," Marissa exclaimed, then laughed again.

Bernard cleared his throat "Not that I am complaining; you know, no, I am not. It's just that a man can only take being ignored for so