Isabella listened to her father’s explanation of  his encounter with the drunken clients.  She knew he was trying to make light of the situation, but she felt strongly that he had put himself in a dangerous situation.  Nonetheless, she was glad that he was on the mend and seemed to be all right except for soreness and bruising.  She knew her stubbornness came from him, so gave up on the idea of chastising him further, knowing he would do it again if he needed to.<em>He is so dedicated to his work.</em><br/><br/>“Daddy!” she exclaimed when he fussed at Diego.  She knew Diego was embarrassed and sincerely hoped this was the last time it was mentioned by any of them.  Diego kissed her on the cheek and was shown out.  He was no sooner gone than Belle already missed him.<br/><br/><em>“Same to you,”</em>he said, turning to her.  Her cheeks turned pink.  “Daddy!” she said again.  She was sorrowful that she had caused him upset, but she was an adult now.  She lifted her chin.  “I am not a child any more, Daddy, and well beyond the age of needing your permission to have any kind of relationship with a man.  However,” and here her voice softened, “I am sorry you had to see that and I will mind my manners better in the future and keep such things…private.”  Her stomach began to complain a little and she called to Helen.  She nervously went to him and kissed him on the cheek. “Would you like some tea and a snack before retiring for the night, Daddy?  I think I am a little hungry.”<br/><br/>Once she began to feel more comfortable, she looked at her father with a big grin.  “Daddy, isn’t Diego wonderful?  He makes me so happy.”<br/><br/>