The night was heavy, wrapping around us like a thick fog. Derek slid his arms around me from behind, his warm breath brushing my ear. "Babe, how about I take you home to see your folks soon?"
I stiffened, turning to look at him, confused. "Why the sudden trip home?"
"You've seemed down lately," he said, his fingers grazing my shoulder. "Figured a visit might cheer you up."
My mind drifted to our old neighborhood, the gated community back home where every tree and sidewalk held memories of me and Derek. A flicker of warmth stirred, but it didn't last.
"Oh, and I heard your dad's not feeling great," he added. "We could check on him."
"My dad's sick?" I bolted upright. "How didn't I know?"
Derek's hands were quick to soothe. "Easy, it's not serious. The housekeeper let it slip."
He pul
