Laney laughed. "Oh, he's not that bad! It was even his idea to go snorkeling."
This was only partially true. She was going snorkeling in the first place but it was Richard's idea to go along with her and make sure nothing bad happened.
Howard gaped at him. "Is that true?!"
"Yes," he said somewhat defensively. "Is that truly so unbelievable? Never mind—don't answer that."
Laney kissed his cheek then addressed Howard. "Don't be so hard on him, Grandpa! He had a good time on our trip. I could tell."
That was such a blatant lie but Howard bought it, albeit disbelievingly, because of how well she sold it. She ended up wrapping her arm around his and resting her head against his shoulder as well to help drive her point home.
His grandfather actually let it go because of that. She really was a miracle worker but not for the reason the old man thought. He would be sure to commend her for it later.