Dad, this is a weird-looking cat.

Haines and Allison stared at Charles, not knowing whether to laugh or cry. 

Charles had the habit of overthinking when he didn't want to mess things up, only to end up messing up. This happened a lot when he was courting Allison, and even after they got married.

Allison sighed and smiled, thinking this trait of her husband was one of his charms. "Charles, I think it's really cute."

"The size is unusual, but I think Penny will like it," Haines agreed. "Though… she might — just might — be a little, just a little surprise."

"You think so?" Charles sighed and darted his eyes between the two. 

Haines and Allison nodded, feeling bad for the guy. They could only hope Penny would see her father's efforts. Charles had been researching mice ever since she told him about it. 

Getting such reassurance from the people he trusted the most, Charles felt slightly better. But not long after, his phone rang.