Mom came out of the kitchen wearing an apron and said, “Oh, are those flowers for me?” Her smile was wide as she took them from Colton.
“Yes, ma’am.”
My dad entered and Colton nodded. “I’m Colton Marzoni. Thank you so much for inviting me to brunch.”
Dad shook his hand and said, “I’m Greg Montgomery, please call me Greg. This is my wife, Barbara.”
“It’s a pleasure to meet you both.”
“The food is ready and on the table. Why don’t we go and eat and talk?” Mom suggested.
“Sounds good to me,” I said, taking Colton’s hand as we followed them to the kitchen.
He didn’t seem nervous, but I sure was.
It didn’t take long for Dad to start with the questions. “Colton, I can tell from your accent that you’re not from here.”
“No, sir. South Dakota.”
“Nice. What brings you to Boston?” he asked.
“I was visiting family,” he replied.
Dad nodded again. “I assume you’re the reason my daughter has been taking time off from work. Not that it’s a bad thing, it’s just uncommon for her to do so. This…relationship must be…serious.”
Dad, I thought for sure this would be coming from Mom. Not you too.
“We’re dating, Dad. That’s all.”
Colton added, “Annabella is very special to me. I’m enjoying this time getting to know her better.”
“How old are you?” Dad asked.
“Forty-four.”
“Ever been married before?” Colton shook his head and dad asked, “Children?”
“No.”
I felt horrible. Colton’s family never put me in the hot seat like this. “Dad, please. Too many questions. You’re going to scare him away.”
Dad looked directly at Colton and said, “Are you scared?”
Colton shook his head.
“Good, she doesn’t need a man that cowers just by words. A man like that can’t take care of my daughter. Protect her. A woman should be treated a certain way, and I want to make sure you’re that kind of man.”
Don’t worry, I respect all women, especially your daughter,” Colton replied.
From what I’ve witnessed, Colton was telling the truth.
“Barbara would you mind if I stole Colton for a man-to-man talk on the porch while you and Annabella pack the leftovers away?”
“Dad, I…”
Colton interrupted and said, “It’s okay. I’m sure we won’t be long.” He got up and followed my dad outside.
I turned to my mom and said, “What the heck has gotten into Dad? He’s never been like this before.”