"I'm sure Mr. Fields and Miss Stephens won't mind waiting for me."

"It's rude to keep them waiting. I thought I taught you that."

"It's a parent's job to teach social issues, but my parent doesn't seem to be around long enough."

"That is why you have me." Maddie motioned for Hayley to come alongside her. "Let's get to your studies."

As they walked together, Hayley broke the silence.

"Perhaps you and Father should marry, so I could have two parents."

Maddie stopped suddenly. "Why would you say that?"

"You believe I am teasing?"

"I don't suppose you are serious."

"Well, you are both getting up in years, and you like each other don't you?"

"Hayley, don't be ridiculous." Maddie seemed nervous. "Of course your father and I like each other."

"What more do you need but respect and compatibility?"

"We are in two different classes."

"Why should that matter?"

"Not everyone sees things as simply as you do."

"I wouldn't care what other people think."

"You make it sound so easy not to care."

"It doesn't have to be complicated. It's just a matter of doing what is right."

"We are doing what is right."

"No, what you are doing is what you think is appropriate, it is different than what is right."