"I know I want to keep working."
His expression doesn't change.
"We'll cross that bridge when the time comes."
I stare at him.
He's still talking about my future like it's already been decided.
Like all I have to do is show up.
"I don't think that's your decision."
The second the words leave my mouth, I wish I could grab them back.
Mom inhales sharply.
Dad doesn't raise his voice.
Somehow that's worse.
"As long as you live under my roof, I have every right to guide you." He takes one step closer. "I'm not asking you to marry him tomorrow."
"I know."
"I'm asking you to give a good man a chance."
I swallow. "What if I don't want to?"
His eyes stay on mine. "I think you'll discover you do."
The room suddenly feels too small. I look at Mom, but she won't meet my eyes. "I think I'm going to go study."
Dad nods once. "I think that's a good idea."
He says it like the conversation is over. Like we reached an agreement. We didn't. I just ran out of things I could say. I head upstairs without another word, and by the time I close my bedroom door behind me, my hands are shaking.
I don't even bother turning on the light.
I sit on the edge of my bed and pull my phone out of my cardigan pocket.
Scarlett's message is still waiting for me.
Scarlett: No pressure, babe. Tiny asked if it'd be okay if he had your number. I told him I'd ask you first.
I stare at the keyboard for a long time before I finally answer.
Me: Okay, give him my number.
The message sends before I can change my mind.
Almost immediately, three dots appear.
Scarlett: You sure?
I smile a little. She asks too. Nobody in this house has asked me what I wanted all night.
Me:: Yes.
