"She's your ex's little sister. You don't owe her anything."
"I know, but I like her. And...what if no one shows up?"
Dad's eyes went soft. "Ah Freya, I doubt that'll happen."
"But it could," I said while zipping my purse then moving to the mirror. Tension was written all over my face, but at least the makeup I'd taken extra care to apply looked decent. My eyelashes appeared longer and fuller. Rosy pink accentuated my cheekbones, and the darker shade of pink gloss on my lips completed the look. I had on my favorite jeans that fit me like a second skin paired with a top that was nice but not too dressy. I shrugged. "I know first-hand how it feels when people let you down."
"I know you do," he said.
"Then you understand why I'm going. Plus"—I grimaced—"Wayne challenged me, and I can't let him win."
My father stepped forward, placing a hand against my shoulder. "Idiot. He doesn't stand a chance against you."
"I know, right."
"What was the challenge?"
I figured now wasn't the best time to tell my father about my fake boyfriend. Probably shouldn't mention the very real feelings I was having either. He'd ask too many questions, and Tolliver would be here any minute.
When I'd been silent too long, Dad frowned with his brows furrowed. "Do I want to know?"
"Nah, probably not."
"Can it get you arrested?"
I stifled a laugh at that. "I don't think so," I said.
"Freya."
"No, Dad. Jeez, who do you think I am?"
My father grunted. "It's Saturday night, and you're going to a party with a hockey player."
I winced.
"You used to stay in most weekends. Your violin would be the only thing I'd hear from dusk until well past midnight. Honestly Freya, these days I feel like I hardly recognize you," he said.
"Okay, you have a point," I conceded, turning to face him, meeting his eyes. "But I promise, I'm not doing anything illegal, and I'll be home before you can miss me."
Dad shook his head. "Still can't believe you're going to a high school party. Willingly."
"Join the club."
"And Tolliver's picking you up?"
I nodded.
"Alright," he said finally, giving me a smile. "Have fun, be safe, make good choices."
With a laugh, I hugged him. "I love you," I said.
"Love you, too."
Dad hugged me firmly before stepping back.
"I'm going to leave before I have to admit you're growing up and try to talk you out of it," he said.
"You'd probably succeed," I said, only half-kidding, "so yeah, go. Have a good night, and pray for me."
