The amazon of the house continues to shift around and cook the food while Ian reassures her, pouring them each some juice and setting the table. Valerie had dated Ian for years, even during the times when it was obvious he was a sleazy brute. She figured he was handsome enough to keep, and he had a certain charm at times. This change in temperament wasn’t something she ever expected or desired, but it was certainly welcome and promised good things for the long term.