Allison

We stepped outside, and Jayden led me to his car, opening the door like a gentleman. I slid in, and he closed the door behind me before walking around to the driver's side.

Just as he was about to start the engine, a soft tap on the window made me turn. Tom was smiling and waving at me. "Hey, Allison, can we talk?" he asked, his voice low and soft.

I looked at Jayden, who nodded.

Then, I turned back to Tom. "Of course."

I opened the door and stepped out, telling Jayden softly, "Hold on, okay?"

"No problem," he replied.

Tom led me to a nearby bench, where...