HAYDEN

The text from my parents came in while I was tying my skates at practice.

Dad: Winter break’s coming up. Bring the girl home. We’d like to get to know her.

The girl. Not your girlfriend, not Coleen. Just… the girl. Typical.

I stared at the screen until Jason leaned over, smirking. “What’s got your face all twisted up like that? Don’t tell me Coleen dumped you already.”

I shoved his shoulder. “Shut up. It’s my parents.”

He whistled. “Oof. Say ...