Chapter 9
- The party was in full swing, and the warm, golden glow of the chandelier cast a soft light over the guests. My parents greeted me with a tight embrace, and I couldn’t help but smile despite the lingering unease.
- “We wanted to surprise you,” Mom said, brushing a loose strand of hair behind my ear. “You’re growing up so fast, Lily. Senior year already?”
- I nodded, still recovering from the shock. “Yeah… senior year.”