A moment later, Markesha walked in, standing in the doorway.

"Good morning, sleepyhead," Pops said, trying to keep the mood light, but knew full well what she had been through. "Go ahead and take a seat and we'll get you a cup of coffee."

"Thank you," Markesha replied sheepishly, then added, "but I can get it myself … if that's okay?"

"Help yourself," Pops said, gesturing toward the coffeemaker. "Make yourself at home." Then, Pops snickered. "Besides, around here if ...