Chapter 20: Today Will be Dedicated to You

Stephen's POV

The gentle morning rays filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow upon Eric's room. Slowly, my consciousness stirred, awakened by the persistent buzz of my phone. With a sleepy hand, I reached out and retrieved the device, realizing it was my mother calling. Panic tinged my thoughts as I recalled neglecting to inform her about spending the night at Eric's house.

Silently slipping out of the room, I ensured the door closed softly behind me before answering the call. "Stephen, where are you?" my mother's voice, laced with concern, pierced through the line. "You told me you were going to talk to your friend Max last night, and then suddenly, you disappeared."

"I'm sorry for not telling you," I apologized, guilt washing over me for causing her worry.

"Please tell me you're not dating her," she exclaimed, her tone laden with assumptions.