He couldn't believe they were doing this to him. No, this was exactly what they would do. Wait until they have him cornered and pester him until he became fed up.

Of course they probably didn't think much of what they were saying. They only meant well, but it doesn't stop him from being sick to his stomach.

Encarnita seemed to realize this as she asked, "Juan, you don't look so good. Is everything alright?"

Grateful for the opening, he said, "I have been feeling slightly off lately."

"That's no good. You need to take good care of yourself."

"She's right son," his father said. "You need to set a good example for your future kids."

Juan forced a smile as he said, "I'll keep that in mind."