Jayden

I sat around the dinner table with Allison and her family before I announced, "I'm serious, I can head home tonight."

Liz shot me a playful glance, her eyes sparkling with mirth. "Oh no, you're not moving an inch, Jayden. You're staying right here tonight, and I'll make sure of it."

She winked, her voice dripping with warmth. "In fact, I'll go hide your car keys so that you can leave tomorrow morning. Please, don't even think about saying no."

I chuckled, my eyes crinkling at the corners, and held up my hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright, I'm not leaving."

Liz beamed, patting Allison's shoulder, who offered a...