*Virginia* As I guide Caleb's father into the cozy living room, a wave of apprehension washes over me. I had always imagined meeting him one day, but not like this. Butterscotch, sensing a stranger in our midst, takes a cautious stance, watching him with narrowed eyes. I chuckle nervously, kneeling down to reassure my furry companion. "It’s okay, Butterscotch. This is Daddy’s dad. He’s nice, I promise." “For some reason dogs seems to not like me,” he says with a small shrug. “Caleb brought home a puppy as a kid, it hated me.” “I promise, Butterscotch is a good boy,” I say. “Please sit.” Caleb’s father gives me a curt nod, his expression unreadable as he sits down. There’s an intensity in his gaze that makes me uneasy. I gesture toward the tv, trying to break the tension. “Make yourself

