Unexpected Invitations

“Anthony!” Mrs. MacQuoid shouted as Calista walked down the staircase, ready for work. “My goodness, you look like someone who was up all night.”

“Good morning, Mrs. MacQuoid,” Anthony greeted, walking towards her in the garden, where she was picking ripe tomatoes. “Your hands are blessed, ma’am. Look how delicious and red this is,” he flattered, smiling.

“Thank you, my dear,” she beamed, picking another tomato while he helped with the basket. “You shouldn’t bother. I can handle this. Besides, you’ve just returned from work.”

“I’m not too tired for this.”

“Calista said you had lots of work to do,” she pressed, moving to another stem full of ripe tomatoes. “Go in and take your shower. I’ll make yummy pasta with these.”

Anthony smiled, glancing at Calista as she walked down the steps to her car. “Good morning, Anthony.”

“Calista.” He smiled before turning to face her mother.

“You’re up, young lady?” her mother called, stopping her. “Did you eat breakfast at all?”

“Mum, I’ll have somethi