Howie extended his arm to shake the man's hand. He didn't think he had ever heard such a formal introduction before. Keir arose from his desk and stepped out in front of it. Samantha immediately took a very large step backward away from the desk. Howie felt dwarfed in the presence of Samantha's father. It was apparent she didn't take after him either. Howie estimated he had to be at least 6'6". 'I see where Samantha's brothers get their height' he mused. Samantha's brothers were thin though compared to her father. Keir Danner towered over his daughter, making her look almost doll like in his shadow. He was a gruff looking man with a salt and pepper beard and skin that had seen so much sun it resembled leather. The many digs he had participated in over the years had helped him to develop massive shoulders and thick arms. 'No wonder Samantha fears him. He could break her in half with one arm tied behind his back!' Howie pushed his hand a little farther forward. "It is very nice to meet you Mr. Danner. Samantha has spoken highly of you."

Keir reached out and shook Howie's hand. "You are lying to me young man. I don't like it when people lie to me."

Howie's mouth dropped open unexpectedly. "Sir I assure you that…"

"Samantha may have mentioned me" Keir said cutting him off "but I am sure it was not in praise."

"Father, please don't do this." Samantha begged. "You know I greatly admire your work and I am grateful for the person you helped me to become." She glanced over at Howie. "Howard doesn't lie father. He is by far one of the most honest people I have ever met. Please show him some respect."

Keir gave Howie the once over. "You are a musician, correct?"

"Yes sir." Howie replied. He couldn't believe how intimidating this man was. Even he was trembling now.

"I suppose you never graduated from high school did you?" Keir snorted.

"Father!" Samantha cried out. "Why are you being so condescending toward Howard?"

"You should not even have to ask that question Samantha. Need I remind you of the last musician who graced this house with his presence?" Samantha swallowed hard and looked down at the ground. "I didn't think so."

"With all due respect sir" Howie began "I have a college degree." 'Why do I feel the need to defend myself to this man?'

A look of surprise crossed Keir's face. He turned to Samantha "I have work to do. I trust I will see the two of you at dinner this evening?"

"Yes father." Samantha replied taking Howie's hand and leading him back to the doorway as quickly as possible.

"It was nice meeting you Mr. Danner." Howie added as Samantha pulled him through the doorway and closed the door behind them.