"Are you sure that you can't stay?" asked Mother in her last-ditch, slightly dramatic effort to retain control.
"I'm sure. Besides, I'll see you guys in just a few days. Make sure Grandpa can come, will you?"
I kissed my grandmother goodbye. "Granny Susie," I whispered, "thank you."
"Won't promise anything, but we'll do our best, hon," she said with a knowing squeeze of my hand.
"Good enough. Dad, Mom, I'll see you guys soon."
Ranni bowed politely to all three of them. "Thank you for having me. I look forward to our training, Lady Yolanda."
"So do I, sweetheart... and you," Mother gave me a pointed, chilling look. "Don't forget my price."
"Hmm... bye."
I ushered Ranni into the black SUV and jumped in after her. We were finally away. The first thing on my mind was damage control.
"I'm sorry about my family hijacking our date like that. We still have some time. Whatever you want."
