It was lateFriday; Tammy was trying to get some extra work done before her and Stephaniewent on a well deserved two week vacation. She was going to ta...e Stephanieto see snow for the very first time. Tammy had gotten divorced before Stephanie was born. It was just the twoof them now. Tammy's parents had been killed in an automobile accident yearsearlier. Tammy pulled up and went inside. Stephanie ran over to her jumped into herarms. The two ladies that were still in the daycare said their. ’ ‘Well, he did tell me so what’s not true, that he’s Silvio’s father or that you want him, love him?’ ‘Look,’ she said her attitude softening somewhat and she became very agitated, ‘what we did we did once, a long time ago when I was very young and he was very sad. Yes it’s true he’s Silvio’s father. Only my family know. Why did he tell you. I don’t love him, well, I love him as my ‘uncle’,’ she added somewhat unconvincingly looking away. ‘He told me because I asked him and he is fond of me. ‘I was beginning to wonder if you would notice. My girlfriend called my dress a jaw-dropper. What do you think?’ There’s that word again. While I’m sitting here with what is arguably one of God’s most perfect creations, my dreams come crashing down, shattered by that one little word. ‘She’s definitely right. As a matter of fact, it’s kinda why I couldn’t speak when you answered the door. Now, about this girlfriend. Is this a new development? Is it serious?’ Now it’s her turn to be speechless.. Alec had to be nudged by Mahmud to recite his speech. A the stone-faced couple were escorted to the van the only people with any enthusiasm for the event was Mahmud, who now had one less daughter to support, and Laila’s sisters who now had a little more living space. Mahmud stayed outside after everyone else went in to celebrate, watching as his nephew Aadil chauffeured the silent couple off to consummate their marriage. Thaman joined him as the van faded into nothing more than a wisp of dust.