Rakesh ran in and out of the house like a chicken with his head cut off, using the strings of lights to add to the romantic mood. There were also a few paper lanterns that he was able to find to hang up. He barely remembered that there were others joining him out there, until they spoke up.

“You, uh, you need some help there, darlin’?” Molly asked gingerly.

“No, I’m okay.” Rakesh in a breathless rush. “I’m almost done anyway.”

“You said that over an ...