Marcus arrived at Sunday dinner with flowers and a nervous smile. That was unusual enough, but what really caught my attention was the woman beside him.

"Everyone," Marcus said as we gathered in the dining room, "I'd like you to meet Dr. Elena Vasquez."

She was beautiful in a quiet, intelligent way. Dark hair pulled back simply, kind eyes behind glasses, a gentle smile as she shook hands with everyone.

"Elena works at the children's hospital," Marcus continued. "She's the head of pediatric ...