#Chapter 96: A Dinner That She’s Not Very Thankful About

Liam arrived at my dorm right on time, his car looking polished and ready for what felt like a monumental occasion. As I climbed into the passenger seat, my nerves kicked into high gear. I smoothed my dress for the hundredth time, feeling every wrinkle like it was a glaring imperfection. “Hey,” Liam said softly, reaching over to squeeze my hand. “You look amazing.” “Thanks,” I murmured, forcing a smile. “I’m just…nervous.” He chuckled, his thumb rubbing comforting circles on the back of my hand. “Don’t be. It’s just dinner.” “Just dinner,” I repeated, trying to convince myself. But it felt like so much more. This was my first time meeting Liam’s parents in an official capacity. It would be Liam and his whole family, in their home, on a holiday. The stakes felt incredibly high. The drive to the Gravens’ house was mostly silent, the weight of my anxiety filling the car. Liam tried to make small talk, but I was too lost in my thoughts to contribute much. When we finally pulled i