~~ETHEL~~
The office went silent. Dad stared at Keanu for a long moment. Then he looked at me, something shifting in his expression.
"I still don't agree with this," he said finally. "But you're right about one thing. She's a grown woman. She can make her own choices, and I can't control that." His eyes found mine. "I just hope you know what you're doing, dear."
"I do," I said, the lie tasting bitter on my tongue.
Keanu cleared his throat. "Mr. Sterling, I'd like to invite you to have dinner with us. Tonight, if you're available. I think it would be good for us to sit down and talk properly."
"I appreciate the offer," Dad said stiffly. "But I think I'll pass."
"Then at least let me drive you home," Keanu offered. "It's the least I can do."
"That's not necessary—"
"I insist."
There
