“Of course,” Derrick said smoothly, though he had no idea how he’d manage to keep this up beyond today. “Family is important to both of us.”

The conversation continued, Derrick navigating it with cautious optimism. He found himself weaving a tapestry of stories, borrowed from his own experiences and embellished with details he guessed might please Mr. Lawson. Meanwhile, Emily interjected with anecdotes and small gestures that, to an outsider, would seem like the affectionate exchanges of a married couple.

As the minutes turned to hours, Derrick realized he was not just helping Emily out of a tight spot; he was part of a larger narrative that she was desperately trying to rewrite. Her father, for all his sternness, represented a life she was no longer willing to lead—a life of control and expectation.