"Where are you going?"

Lawson froze at his mother's voice, already halfway to the hall that led to the front door.

"Out," he said, not breaking his stride.

"Lawson." Her voice rose, and he stopped, letting out a frustrated sigh.

"Remember, we have dinner tonight with Madison's boyfriend."

"I trust you, Mother. You wouldn't let Madison marry just anybody, so... this dinner? My presence isn't necessary," he shot back, not bothering to turn.

His mother shot up from the couch, her ...