Derrick held his breath, feeling the weight of the moment. Mr. Lawson scrutinized him with an intensity that made the room feel like it was closing in.
“Derrick,” Mr. Lawson repeated, the name rolling off his tongue as if it were a foreign concept. “I didn’t realize you’d be in town.”
“Yes, Sir,” Derrick replied, his voice steady. “I thought it would be a good surprise for Emily.”
Emily’s father gave a curt nod, his eyes darting between them, searching for cracks in their façade. To Derrick’s relief, Emily slid into the role effortlessly, with a warmth in her voice that belied the tension beneath. “Derrick’s been busy with work,” she said casually. “But we’re making it work, aren’t we?”
