Chapter Forty: A Happily Ever After For Everyone

The next morning, Declan was jolted awake by a call from Albert. “Declan, you’ve been keeping secrets! You have a girlfriend and you haven’t introduced her to us? Why would you keep such good news hidden?” Declan, feeling the weight of early morning irritation, responded with a hint of frustration. “Dad, it’s early. We just made things official last night. I would’ve brought her to meet you earlier if that were the case.” As Sofia started making noise in the background, Declan became concerned Albert might hear her. Quickly, he moved away to a quieter spot to continue his conversation. Albert remained unconvinced. “I don’t buy it. If you just got together, why all the talk of proposals and love declarations yesterday? You think I’m too old to understand? Declan, careful to keep his voice down so as not to wake Sofia, responded, “Dad, I’m telling you the truth. If you’re not sure, wait until I bring Sofia to meet you. She’ll confirm it.” On the other end, Albert was all smiles. “T