She could find no retort.

-

In the end, Lisa brought Terry home with her.

When they arrived home, Lisa's parents welcomed Terry enthusiastically. They even asked him to stay for dinner.

Terry naturally agreed, much to Lisa's horror. She was worried that he might blurt out her secret if he stayed for too long.

Lisa dragged Terry into her room almost immediately after the meal. "When are you going to leave?"

"Why are you so eager for me to leave?" he asked with raised eyebrows.

She laughed dryly. "I'm worried that my parents' enthusiasm might annoy you. As you know, they really think that you're my boyfriend, so they must be asking you all kinds of questions."

"They're not annoying. Chatting with them is quite interesting," said Terry. He could learn new things about her like her childhood experiences by chatting with her parents. They would often mention things like that in passing.

"Also, from now on, no matter what problem you run into, remember to call me. You're not allowed