Book Two: Branch One Hundred and Fifty Three

"We are here," Aletta said as they stood at the door. "Just say hello and be on your way"

"You sound as if you are in a hurry to see me leave so you can see your second boyfriend," Joshua said with a frown.

"I don't want to risk the two of you running into each other," Aletta said in a mocking tone.

"I know that's a joke but I sincerely do not like the sound of that" he said holding her hand. "The thought that you could suddenly not be mine again does not sit well with me" he added.

"Calm down" she said using her second hand to pat his hand that was on hers. "I am only worried that you would be driving alone at night" she said and a smile climbed his face.

"That's much better" he said squeezing her hand. "I don't want to have to start guessing what you mean, I want you to tell me what you mean, every time" he said and she shook her head.

"That I can't do" Aletta replied.

"What are you two doing there? Do you want a picture of you taken?" Alethea asked from behind them.

"What are you