Claire woke up to the smell of pancakes and the sound of her father humming in the kitchen. For a moment, she lay in bed smiling at the ceiling, replaying last night’s events—Xander’s surprise visit, the intense kisses, Mom catching them, and the mortifying “no s*x” talk. Her cheeks heated just thinking about it.
She showered quickly, chose a cute navy sweater and jeans, and headed downstairs. The moment she stepped into the kitchen, both parents turned with knowing grins.
“Morning, lovebirds,” Dad said, flipping a pancake dramatically.
Claire groaned. “Dad, please. It wasn’t like that.”
Mom sipped her coffee, eyes sparkling with mischief. “We’re just happy you’re happy. Though next time, maybe warn us before tall, dark, and handsome starts scaling the house.”
Before Claire could die
