Aria’s POV
I took a seat on the couch, picking at the hem of my shirt while I waited. The seconds felt like minutes, each ticking second bringing me closer to the inevitable conversation with my parents.
Caleb returned from the kitchen, holding a snack in his hands. “You alright?” he asked, concern returning.
“Yeah, just… waiting,” I replied, glancing at the clock. The hands seemed to crawl forward, slowing down time intentionally.
“Want some chips?” he offered, holding the bag out to me.
I shook my head. “No thanks. I’m not hungry.”
“Suit yourself,” he said, plopping down next to me. “I guess I’ll grab the popcorn for when the fireworks start.”
“Very funny,” I said, leaning back and trying to relax. “It’ll be more like a funeral than a fireworks show.”
He looked at me and smiled.
