“Hi, Mars,” Mom says with a forced smile. Dad just stands behind her, stony faced. “Can you give us a minute, dear? This is a family matter.” “Which is why I’m here,” Mars replies, his tone icy. “Protecting my family.” “We need to speak to our son alone,” says Dad. “No.” One word, spoken so powerfully. It echoes in the space between us, scaring the bunnies in the basket. Not looking at me, Mars takes my hand.
