Gladys rushed around the room getting ready for an evening with Edward. This was their first dinner, and she felt as excited as she had felt on the night at the cocktail party. That night had been magical and made her smile each time she recalled it. Edward had been so attentive and courteous, it blew her away that he had noticed her fear of thunderstorms. They‘d been dating for a while now and he continued to be caring and attentive. The wonderful feeling of mutual attraction still made her tipsy each time they spoke on the phone or met for a quick lunch or movie. She waltzed round the room happily but stopped short when Bunmi staggered in through the door.

The maid‘s arms were loaded with freshly washed and ironed clothes. “Madam is calling you,” she said, moving towards the wardrobe to hang up the clothes.

“Is there anyone else downstairs?” Gladys asked, putting on her lipstick.

“Yes, there is a man with her in the parlor.”

“Edward‘s here already? Oh my God, I‘m late.” Gladys groaned out loud.

“I can help you get ready, auntie,” Bunmi suggested.

“Thanks… please bring out those high-heeled black shoes and polish them for me.”

She was ready in the next five minutes, and looked back at the smiling face of Bunmi with gratitude as she walked downstairs.