Barbara could just about feel the anxiety radiate from Howard, but she remained cool and calm, and kept her focus on Rose. "We're not sure. Johnny on his own is work enough for the moment, so we'll see." John was so perfect that Barbara would be happy enough if he was the only child they ever had. However, since neither of them had brought it up for serious discussion, she couldn't comment.

"I'm sorry to hear that. Although it is good to know that your future brightens a little." Barbara paused, smirking down at the table top. She gave Howard a side glance before learning forward to Rose a little and adding: "still, practicing is just as fun."

She sat back to cover her mouth and giggle like a girl. Feeling so close to Howard meant that she could say such outrageous things and not feel too ashamed. Maybe it was the connection to Rose through Howard which helped her feel so familiar, but Barbara felt so at ease, like she was chatting with an old friend.