Dr. Lucia came home early that day. Most of the accident patients had been discharged, save for one, and the workload requiring her exclusive attention had eased. Earlier that morning, she had invited Mr. and Mrs. Maringo for evening tea.
She recalled her conversation with Benjamin over breakfast.
"Aunty, I really want to spend some time with Megyn today, but I know she'll be working at the hospital." Benjamin said.
"That's true," Dr. Lucia replied.
Benjamin looked at her pleadingly, hoping she might help him make it possible.
"And what do you have in mind?" she asked.
"I'd like to take her out on a date before I go back to London," he replied.
Dr. Lucia's interest encouraged him to continue.
Swallowing the food in his mouth, he added, "I just have a small favor to ask."
He pinched his fingers together to show just how small the favor was. With that innocent expression, his aunt couldn't refuse.
"That can be arranged," she said with a smile.
"Yes!" he exclaimed.
"Auntie," he added, "I'd like to take her to Hotel Sunset before I leave."
Dr. Lucia smiled broadly. Her mission was succeeding.
After breakfast, she left for the hospital. Benjamin, meanwhile, cleared the table, washed the dishes, and tidied up the kitchen.
Later, he drove to the hospital cafeteria, hoping to meet Megyn for a mid-morning snack, but first, he stopped by his aunt's office.
When Dr. Lucia returned home, she found the house sparkling clean. Every utensil had been washed and put away.
"Someone has the spark," she mused with a smile.
She began preparing the beverages and snacks for her guests, who were expected at four o'clock. Soon, the dining table was adorned with an appetizing spread: three flasks—spiced tea, pure milk, and hot water—alongside an assortment of beverages: tea bags, drinking chocolate, and coffee. The snacks included assorted sandwiches, sausages, biscuits, and nuts.
She laid out her best china and placed two vases of fresh flowers at either end of the rectangular dining table. In the center, a tray of assorted fruits completed the inviting setting. She had to outdo herself, for the sake of these visitors. They too held Benjamin's happiness, by their decisions.
After a quick shower and change of clothes, Dr. Lucia was just settling into the living room when the doorbell rang. It was a few minutes past four—her guests had arrived.
Mr. and Mrs. Maringo stepped in, beaming. They handed her a bag of shopping and were soon seated, admiring the decor. The black-and-white color theme and cool marble flooring had a calming effect, especially after the heat outside.
Dr. Lucia returned from putting away their gift and found her guests sipping cold water. They sat on the loveseat while she took the single-seater across from them.
"So how was your day, Doctor?" Mrs Maringo asked.
"It was perfect. We admitted a few accident victims on Friday, but now they're out of danger. One is still under observation. A metal bar nearly pierced his lungs—we had to operate urgently."
"I heard about the accident," Mr Maringo said thoughtfully. "The reporters didn't mention which hospital received the casualties. They only said one of them is a prominent figure from this county - Randi."
"Benjamin brought them in, and I performed the surgery," Dr. Lucia explained. "It was delicate, but thank God he's stable now. Their location must remain confidential."
They all nodded in agreement.
They shifted the topic away from politics though Mr. Maringo believed the accident was likely an assassination attempt, especially since the identity of the prominent figure had been kept secret.
"Benjamin went out with Megyn for lunch," Mrs. Maringo said, smiling. "I think he's identified the bright flower in our garden. What do you think, Doctor?"
"I think Megyn is a beautiful, intelligent, and dutiful young lady who has truly enchanted my nephew's heart," Lucia replied. "And Benjamin is disciplined and dependable. I assure you, Megyn is in good hands - your flower is protected."
"No doubt about that," James agreed. "May their relationship blossom."
"James, why are you so sure?" Martha teased. "We just met Benjamin."
"My dear," Mr. Maringo replied with a chuckle, "As I told you last time - my dear wife - I'm a man. I saw the way they looked at each other. It's clear they've known each other for a while. Besides, Benjamin is no longer a stranger to us."
Dr. Lucia felt a quiet joy knowing that Benjamin had been warmly received by the Maringo family. Still, she gently changed the subject.
"Thank Mr and Mrs Maringo for the wonderful package you brought me. These fish fillets are so fresh—look like they came straight from the factory," she said, genuinely delighted. "My nephew has developed quite the taste for fish lately. I'll find a great recipe for it."
"Lucia dear, we're friends now—just call us James and Martha," Mrs Maringo said warmly. "And yes, the fillets came directly from the factory, for our most valued friend. James owns Ringo Fish processing Factory."
"Oh! James, I didn't know you owned Ringo! Your products are my favorite in the industry."
James smiled. "Thanks, Doc. That means a lot coming from a loyal customer."
They all laughed heartily at James's playful tone and expressions.
"So, do you only serve local consumers like me?" Dr.Lucia asked.
"We have both local and international markets," James replied. "In fact, we export most of our products overseas."
As he spoke, Lucia brought out the snacks and beverages, setting them on the coffee table.
"Please, let's enjoy something as we chat," she offered.
The Maringos both chose hot chocolate milk. The snacks were exceptionally delicious—they helped themselves generously, especially to the sandwiches and sausages, barely leaving room for fruit salad.
"Speaking of Benjamin and his new love for fish," Martha said, "I'll have fresh whole fish delivered to you tomorrow—for him."
"Thank you so much, Martha. But really, you don't have to," Dr. Lucia tried to decline politely.
"I insist," Martha said with a kind smile.
"Alright then—I can't refuse," Lucia said, secretly pleased. She loved fish just as much as Benjamin did.
Suddenly, they heard keys jingling at the door. It opened, and Benjamin stepped in, using his spare key. He was whistling, but stopped abruptly when he saw three pairs of eyes staring at him. He hadn't expected his aunt to be home with visitors.
"Good evening, Mr. and Mrs. Maringo. What a surprise!"
"Good evening, Benjamin," they replied together. "Are you well?"
"Yes, Mum."
"Welcome home, son of my sister," Dr. Lucia greeted him fondly. "Come join us for tea."
"Thanks, Auntie, but I had a heavy lunch—didn't leave any room except for air!" he joked. "I'd like to keep my appetite for supper."
Martha smiled to herself. She had received a text from Megyn earlier about their lunch at Sunset Hotel. Sunset—the most luxurious hotel in Randi! Benjamin must have spent a fortune. He truly valued her daughter.
Time flew, and as six o'clock approached, Mr. and Mrs. Maringo rose to leave.
Benjamin came down to bid them goodbye.
"Benjamin," James called, his tone firm, commanding the young man's attention.
"Yes, Mr. Maringo?" Benjamin responded, stepping closer.
"Is Megyn safely at home?" he asked.
"Yes, sir," Benjamin replied, meeting his eyes.
"Good." Mr. Maringo responded with a smile showing he was pleased
Benjamin knew then—he had won the hearts of Megyn's parents.
In the parking lot were three cars: a red double cabin, a black Mercedes Benz, and a blue hatchback.
James and Martha got into their red double cabin and drove off.
It had been an evening well spent.
Benjamin was left thinking that one day these two would be his parents in law.
This thought left him smiling as he climbed the stairs back to his room.
What a day!