Sophies rapid volley of three questions grated on Josephs nerves.

Tugging at his tie, he replied coolly, Mom, Sabrina is calm. Its not as serious as youre making it out to be.

Not serious?

Sophie forced herself to take a calming breath and fixed her gaze on him again. Your grandfather doesnt know about this yet. If he finds out, youll be lucky if all he does is peel a layer off your hide. Think carefully about what youre doing.

And dont ...