“Sorry, I’m just so excited!” Grace replies, her laughter filling the room just as Kerry emerges, struggling with a heavy suitcase and a furball cradled in her arms.

I quickly rush to her side to offload her luggage.

“Here, just carry Tum Tum.” She insists, thrusting the furry creature into my arms before I can protest.

“But I don’t like animals.” I manage to say, my discomfort clear.

“Oh, you’ll love mine.” Kerry dismisses with a chuckle.

I roll my eyes. “That’s what all cat lovers say.”

I look down at the furry creature now snuggling into my arms, and despite myself, a smile tugs at my lips.

“Aww, you two are hitting it off already.” She teases.

Mrs. Grace jumps back into the conversation, her tone laced with excitement and a hint of mischief. “And where are you two lovebirds goin’? On a vacation? Are you whisking my daughter away on a jet?”

Internally, I panic. How do we explain this? I guess with the truth, sort of.

“Well, not only are we dating, but Kerry’s also working —”

“As a homeschool teacher! I’m working at one of Greer’s homeschool collectives, teaching dozens of students in the area.” Kerry swiftly intercepts, her voice bright and convincing.

I look at her in shock as her parents beam with pride and surprise. Grace claps her hands, exclaiming, “See, I told you great things were right around the corner for you!”

“I’m so proud of you, Kerry! Take that, Cory! I knew his antics wouldn’t work.” Mr. James rejoices.

Struggling to maintain the facade, I muster a sarcastic enthusiasm, “Yeah, babe, I’m just so happy for you.”

Kerry immediately elbows me, forcing a chuckle from her parents as she beams from cheek to cheek.

“Thanks, Mom. You were so right! Everything’s finally falling into place. And since the school is a whopping 45-minute drive on Vic’s side of town, it just makes sense for us to take the next step.”

Her father’s eyebrows shoot up, his skepticism sharp enough to slice through the room. “Next step?” He echoes, his voice laced with suspicion.

I’m looking at her crazy, too, but Kerry slides her hand into mine, her fingers warm and steady despite the tension brewing. “Yes, Dad. Next step. We’re moving in together.” She says it with calm authority, her voice unwavering.

Meanwhile, a long, slow gulp travels down my throat. This woman is nuts! Is she trying to get me killed?