BONDING OVER LEGOS

Late afternoon sunlight streamed through my bedroom window, bathing the space in a soft, golden glow. I sat cross-legged on the bed, absentmindedly toying with the edge of my book as my mind wandered. Only three more days until the Galloways' New Year's party, and I still wasn't sure how to feel about it. Social events weren't my strong suit—not when every interaction felt like navigating a minefield. And Mrs. Galloway... she was sharp, the kind of person who noticed everything, and for some reason, she seemed to be keeping a close eye on me. Even if she seemed to like me, this could make it easier for her to catch something, she always appears awfully invested in our relationship.