Wolfgang’s anxiety ratchets Michael’s up even farther. When they jump he jumps, like a panicked echo. His hand goes to their back, less of an attempt to soothe than it is a reflexive effort at steadying himself. Morris is looking at both of them with confusion so complete it borders on worry.
Michael glares at him. “Why do you have to—“ He forces out a hard, frustrated sigh. “Look, it’s not like that. Just relax, would you? We don’t need any help.”
“Why are you so angry?” Morris replies, beginning to sound irate himself. “I want my son to get married, what is wrong with that? You finally find a girl and this is out of the question? She seems very good for you.” He lowers his voice before saying, in a placating tone, “She knows about your little problem, yes? This is important for you.”
“Pop, she’s sitting right here! She’s a human being!” Michael shoots back, ignoring the comment about his ‘little problem.’ Shem is eyeing them from behind the counter, acting like he’s occupied with chopping some brisket.