Chapter 71: Upcoming Festivities

At the top of the staircase was a dining area of sorts, which backed onto an open-plan kitchen.

My fingers clutched Ryder's desperately as my anxiety levels peaked the further we wandered into what felt like an out-of-bounds area.

We walked through a large archway into a cozy room that appeared to be some kind of hybrid between an office and a lounge. There was a large wooden desk and chairs for work, but then there were two well-worn brown leather couches facing a stone fireplace that seemed more for leisure.

Ryder's dad sat at the desk while his mom hovered over him, pointing at something on the laptop screen as she squinted.

Their focus shifted to us as soon as we stepped into the room. "Ah! Katelyn! How's your arm?" David asked, his voice brimming with concern as Liz straightened up.

"I... It's much better, thanks," I hesitated, feeling my stomach twisting in knots.

"Don't you two look adorable in your matching outfits," Liz said with a bright smile as her gaze darted betwee