"Yes, Ma."
"Why are you using the front door?"
"I brought a guest. Is that okay, Ma?"
His mother stepped into the formal living room, which had never once been used, and looked out toward the door. She stopped as the smile washed over her face.
Duarte said, "Ma, this is Alice."
His mother started to reach out her hand then took an extra step and embraced the bright blond forensic scientist.
Alice returned the hug.
Duarte heard his father coming down the stairs. Before he even was in sight, he said, "Alex, did you do good work today?"
Duarte didn't hesitate. "Yes, sir. I did good work today."
James O. Born
***
