8, shares my enthusiasm, though he initially disapproved of my move to Washington. My mom, sitting beside him, understands my perspective, but Dad's concerns persist. "Remember the ru

which he eventually agreed to. I nod, reciting the rules: no drinking, no clubbing, no walking alone at night, and no talking to stran

aced with exasperation. Mom watches us, amused, shaking her head. Dad gives me a stern look. "You're not, but there are dangers out there-" "I get it," I interrupt, not wanting to hear his warnings. "Good," he says, then squints at me. I know that look. I haven't mentioned the most important rule. "And no boys," I say, defeated. "No boys, absolutely no boys," he repeats, his authority unwavering. I pout, stabbing my meat.

s, and he tries to justify, "That was complicated-" I interrupt, "Max is already engaged, and he's only a year older than me!" Dad sighs and looks at Mom for support, but she raises her eyebrows, unconvinced. He turns back to me, "Max is a true gentleman. Besides, Sienna isn't allowed to date either-" I protest, "Sienna can't date until she's 25! You're worse than Uncle Vaughn!" My outburst dra

rreal that Dad is finally allowing me to live a thousand miles away, but it's time he gave me some independence. One semester is shorter than four years, after all. "Remember the most important rule?" he asks, and I furrow my brows. Ah, yes - answering their calls. I grin, and we share another hug. The most important thing is honesty and not hiding anything from them. "Remember," he says with a warning look, "don't skip meals." I fight the urge to roll my eyes, but I'll miss his nosy side. As I watch

e most luxurious I've seen, a high-class apartment that makes me wish Dad hadn't splurged on it. But arguing with him was futile; he only wants the best for me, especially when it comes to safety and security. I squint at the penthouse on top, remembering a staff member mentioning the owner lives there.