'Why did I bring Howie here?' Samantha kept asking herself over and over again. 'I knew my dad would not accept him right away but I didn't think he would be downright rude to him.' She sighed audibly.

Howie stopped walking and turned to face Samantha. He kissed her lips softly. Cupping her face in his hands he quietly whispered, "Sam, I know you are worried about what happened at your parents' house but you shouldn't be. You had nothing to do with what happened." Samantha broke his gaze and stared off down the street. "Sam," he said turning her face to look at him again. "Stop worrying! I still love you. In fact, I think I love you more now because of who you are despite what I just saw. Samantha you are a confident, beautiful, articulate, intelligent woman." He paused, letting his words sink in. "Don't let your dad get to you like this. I know you love and respect him but he's not perfect." Samantha snorted and rolled her eyes. Howie laughed, "Everything will be fine Samantha. I promise."

"I just feel so bad Howie. I don't know what to say."

"You don't have to say anything Sam. You don't owe me any apologies."

"He wasn't always that way. He used to be a very caring, very funny person. He has always been overbearing, especially when it came to education, but he was never so blatantly rude." She shook her head. "I am sorry. I wish you could have met him before…" she trailed off.

"Before what Sam?"

Samantha's eyes turned cold. "Nothing." She replied quickly. She picked up Howie's hand and started to walk again. "The park is just around the corner."

Howie scrunched his eyebrows together and caught up to Samantha's stride. 'She is driving me insane with whatever this family secret is. Damn it Sam! What are you hiding?'