My top priority was to talk with Sandy. I didn’t relish the conversation. ‘Sandy, I barely have time to breathe this week. I have two showers, our...family dinner, the second night of Passover with your family and so many arrangements to go over. I can’t see how I’m going to be able to fit your shower in between now and graduation. ‘I’m really sorry. Of all the people who are going to be involved, you’re my favorite.’ She took a breath. She looked disappointed, but not as much as I had expected.. " Yet is that not what we ultimately do each year?" Once a year, Victor," Charles said, frustrated. "And after careful arrangement and preparation. And this year you tell me it is moot anyway as the girl's mother has somehow already agreed to this."Victor heard the hint of disbelief in Charles' voice. He had not shared details of his experiment with anyone, not just to cover his tracks but to avoid a backlash. He recognized the possibility that even his own trusted people would find his scheme. 'I finished getting dressed and quietly but speedily went downstairs. Iheard the voices already nearing the kitchen. "You're in a good mood Mom. I could feel your happy thoughts already inthe driveway."Mom was about to tell her why, but saw me coming, and I put my finger onmy mouth to indicate to her to keep quiet about me. So instead she said,"And why shouldn't I be. I got some wonderful news today."Isabel snorted, "Yeah right, your wedding dress is almost ready?"I answered instead of Mom,. “By giving people fake names? So, what, are you here because you changed your mind about getting paid for the work?” he pressed. “Because that’s not—”I grimaced, shaking my head as he got animated. “No, not at all! I was just on my way home, and I wanted to check if the ramp was built yet. I swear.” I turned to his mom. “And I’m sorry about the name. Just some dumb thing that ... I don’t even know. I’m sorry.”There was an awkward moment, but then Hazel started laughing as she patted my arm.