Chapter 55

That caused questions to fly and soon Kate was telling the story of Steve’s first date with Gwen, how Ted had cautioned him against everything fun, how she had opened the door on Steve and Gwen as they were preparing to kiss, and how Steve brought Gwen home one night in such a state that Ted flew off the handle and popped Steve on the chin.

The stories prompted more questions and a great deal of laughter from everyone, young and old. Steve was a bit embarrassed by it all, but at the same time, felt a sense of belonging and family that had eluded him for some time.

“You want to know what’s really weird about all of this?” asked Gwen during a break in the conversation. “The other night, Steve told me how much he feared, and respected Dad. He said Dad’s a great father and he’s raised a wonderful family. He has every right to expect Steve to follow his rules! What kind of boyfriend sticks up for a girl’s father?”

“A boyfriend that’s in it for the long haul,” responded