Cora's father smiled and gently patted her back. "I've always wanted what's best for you, Cora. And this…" he pulled slightly away and glanced at Oliver with a look of admiration, "this is truly the first time I feel peace in my heart about someone standing beside you. I mean it."
Cora wiped her eyes and smiled, then looked at Oliver. "This is going to be it," she said to her father again, her voice now firmer. "This is the one you'll be proud of. I promise."
Cora's father chuckled and nodded. "Well, you've said it already, but let me tell you something else. This is far better than anything I've seen before. In fact, it's not even close. I've never given any man my approval before—not one. But this one," he pointed a proud finger at Oliver, "this is a pass mark. And not just a pass mark… this is a high distinction. Very, very overqualified."
