CHAPTER NINE

The following day, I go on a lunch date with Ethan. We've chosen a diner conveniently located near both work and school to make the most of our limited time together. My classes have just concluded, and my work shift will begin soon.

"So, tell me, what do you do for fun, aside from wrongly accusing people?" Ethan inquires, a playful smirk gracing his lips.

"I don't know, probably reading. When I was younger, though, I enjoyed playing video games," I respond, reminiscing about my childhood. My dad and I used to spend hours playing video games together. He taught me all the tricks and strategies I still use today. Back then, I struggled to make friends, so I rarely ventured outside or had playdates. My mom worried about my social life, but after a particularly harsh bullying incident at the park, she grew less concerned. The very next day, my dad returned home with a treasure trove of games and toys, and that's how I spent my formative years.

"I wasn't expecting that. Think you can be