Ryan:
I woke to the smell of coffee—a rich, comforting aroma that cut through the haze of last night. The smell made me want to bury my face in the pillow and pretend the world didn't exist, but the sharp ring of my phone beside the bed made that impossible.
I groaned, reaching over to grab it without looking. The screen flashed my father's name. Perfect.
I rubbed his eyes, wishing for a few more minutes of sleep, but the call was already buzzing in my ear.
"Hey, Dad," I mumbled, trying to sound awake. Even though it was early, I could already hear Father's voice on the other end, strong and clear.
"Ryan," Dad said without preamble. "I'm hearing things. A reporter for Gab was in this little town was passing through and caught you wrapped up in the moment. Are you engaged? Is that true
