20

21

After returning to the country, Caelan went to my mom's house first.

He brought gifts for both my parents.

They seemed quite expensive.

My mom couldn't stop smiling.

The handsome and wealthy Caelan completely outshone Farrell.

My mom, seeing dollar signs, tried to set me up with Caelan.

She even had Molly call him daddy.

He said it was good practice since they'd have to change how they addressed him eventually anyway.

She started daydreaming about landing a rich son-in-law.

She kept inviting us both out for meals.

I admit I was a bit swayed.

I had liked Caelan for many years; he was my teenage dream.

But I held my ground and didn't take that final step.

I started coming home later and later, afraid to face Farrell.

I felt guilty inside.

I didn't know how to handle this relationship.