CHAPTER 31: The Message

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Chapter 31: The Message

Daisy

She stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the soft blue blouse Calvin said brought out her eyes. Her hair was tied in a low bun, elegant and simple. Tonight was the night.

She was going to meet his parents.

Her phone buzzed on the nightstand.

Mum.

> Come home. It's urgent.

Daisy froze. No explanation. No detail. Just that.

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Calvin

He knocked gently on the bathroom door. "You okay?"

Daisy stepped out slowly, phone in hand. "My mum just texted. She wants me to come home. Says it's urgent."

Calvin's eyes darkened with concern. "Did she say what happened?"

"No. Just that."

She sat on the edge of the bed, the tension pooling in her shoulders. "She's not dramatic like that. If she says it's urgent, something's… wrong."

Calvin sat beside her. "We can cancel dinner. I'll go with you."

She turned, surprised. "But your parents—"

"They'll understand. You come first."

The room went quiet. Daisy looked at him, her chest aching with something heavy and tender.

"Why are you always so calm?" she whispered.

Calvin smiled faintly. "Because when it comes to you, I've already made my choice."

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Daisy

An hour later, she sat in the car with Calvin, heading back out of the city—back toward memories, family, and whatever storm waited at the door.

She held his hand tighter this time.

And though the dinner was missed, something else was gained.

Trust that didn't ask for proof.

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