Ethan’s POV

I had just finished helping my mother clear the dishes from her birthday breakfast when Katelyn texted me:

“Change of plans. I’m at a friend’s pool party. Can you bring Lucas here?”

I stared at the message for a moment, replied simply:

“On the way.”

I informed Lucas and he quickly dressed in his swim trunks, buzzing with excitement. “Pool party!” he shouted, practically leaping into the back seat.

As I drove, I tried to steady myself. I told myself this was ...