Chapter Sixty-Three

I close the door behind me with a soft click.

I didn't mean to get home this late, but Luca kept distracting me in hopes that I'd accept his offer and spend the night with him. The only reason why I didn't was because I truly hadn't told my parents about it. I don't want them to feel like I'm disrespecting them. Yes, Luca and I are engaged, but I'm still living with them. And while I'm living with them, I owe them an explanation.

I have to inform them about my whereabouts, especially during these uncertain times that have everyone worrying.

I start to tiptoe toward the stairs, but a light in the living room turns on and I know that I've been caught. I feel like a teenager again, sneaking out to meet with my friends. I don't even have to turn around to know that it's my mother.

"I'm sorry," I start to say. "I was with Luca. We lost track of time."

"I don't mind that," she says. "You're an adult. You can spend time with whoever you please. I do wish you had told me where you were go