Ryan Has A Job (but he didn't tell us)

This conversation is quite indicative of Ryan.  He likes to keep to himself, or as we call it, he likes to stay in his world.  The owner of the photo shop classes and I have had several, small conversations on the side.  In this case, I knew a job for Ryan was very likely, but I didn't know when.  It is imperative that parents of autistic adults stay in close contact with people who are around their young, autistic adult.

Wednesday evening:

Ryan

Mom:  How was class?
Ryan;  Fine.

Mom waits for elaboration, but knows none will come.

Thursday morning:

Mom:  How was class?
Ryan:  You asked me that yesterday.
Mom:  Yes, but all you said was fine. So how was class?
Ryan:  Fine.
Mom:  Did you do as well as you did last time?
Ryan:  Yes.
Mom:  Did they say anything about getting hired officially?
Ryan:  Yes.
Mom:  So??

Ryan says nothing.

Mom:  So you have a job?
Ryan:  Yes.

Mom's eyes widen, and Dad turns around to face Ryan.

Dad:  Why didn't you say this yesterday?
Ryan:  Um.
Mom:  Now you see why I asked you again?  You didn't tell us this. This is great news!
Dad:  Yeah, this is a big deal.
Ryan:  Yeah (trying not to smile).
Mom:  SMILE.
Ryan:  Ok (with a silly grin).

We went out to dinner to celebrate to illustrate that it is important to share news with us.  How else could we mark the occasion??