"Samantha" Howie called as he headed into the bedroom "Pollyanna is here. Are you just about ready?" he asked.

"Um, yeah." Samantha nodded "Just let me grab my purse." she said picking up her bag from where it was resting on the chair.

"Are you feeling OK sweetie?" Howie asked draping his arms around her waist and pulling her into a loose embrace. He looked at her eyes "If you aren't feeling well, Pollyanna will understand. The three of us can just hang out here for awhile."

Samantha gave him a small smile. "I am just a little nervous." she said biting her lip. "I'll be fine." she replied, skillfully averting his gaze.

"What do you have to be nervous about Samantha?" Howie inquired running his fingers through her loose curls. "Pollyanna is going to love you! Trust me on this OK?" He brought his hand to her chin and turned her face to meet his. He kissed her softly. "You have nothing to worry about." he assured her. "The two of you are going to have a great time today!"

"I guess I would feel better if you were going to be there as well." Samantha stated hoping to change Howie's mind about coming on the planned excursion.

"Sam," Howie said kissing her forehead "I want you and Pollyanna to get to know each other without my monopolizing the conversation."

"Howie you wouldn't..." Samantha managed to get out before Howie put his finger to her lips.

"I think it is better this way hun! The two of you can talk about girl stuff and shop better without me!" he said smiling at her. "Besides, I already made plans of my own for while you are gone!" Samantha looked at him curiously before he continued. "John, Dad and I are going to play a round of golf."

Samantha giggled and took another deep breath. "OK Howie." she said with a sigh "Let's get this over with."

Howie laughed and then kissed her. "Sam," he said taking her hands into his and giving them a little squeeze "You are not going in for major surgery or something! You are only going to the mall with my sister!" Samantha bowed her head and grinned. Howie lifted her chin and softly brushed his lips to hers. "You are going to have a great time. Now, come on." he said pulling her out the door and down the hall. "I can hardly wait to introduce you to Pollyanna!"