Chapter 9

I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the strap of my black dress for what felt like the hundredth time. Loose waves framed my face, and for once, I had actually made an effort with makeup—nothing too bold, just enough to highlight my features. I smoothed my hands over the sequin fabric of the dress again. I had come to my parents’ house because it was where I kept all the things I didn’t use regularly.

A date with Rico. How had I even let this happen? I wasn’t the type to casually agree to something like this. Yet, here I was, about to meet him at Sake Garden. Part of me was still baffled at the thought. Sure, Rico had a certain charm, and we had grown close at work. But a date? That was something else entirely.
As I grabbed my purse and headed toward the door, my brother Zachary’s voice rang out from behind me. “Whoa, whoa, where do you think you’re going?”

I turned to find not just Zachary, but the twins—Trevor and Theo—sitting on the couch, looking up at me with matching grins. Of course, they had to visit our parents when I was here. Although Zach lived here anyway. I sighed, rolling my eyes. Trevor’s grin grew wider, and he nudged Theo. “She’s definitely going on a date. Look at her. That dress? The makeup? Yeah, this is serious.”
Theo smiled, more subtle than his twin but just as interested. “So, who’s this mysterious guy taking you?” I gave them all a look, trying to hide my amusement beneath an air of irritation. “I don’t have to tell you anything. And it’s just dinner, okay? Don’t make it a big deal.”
Trevor, never one to let an opportunity for teasing slip, piped up again. “You don’t just go to dinner looking like that unless it’s a date. So, come on, spill! What’s his name?” I crossed my arms “His name is none of your business.”

Zachary raised an eyebrow, pretending to look thoughtful. “Should we be concerned? Is this some dangerous secret mission you’re off to? Do we need to meet this guy first?” Theo chuckled softly. “We’re just looking out for you, Ryen. You’ve never really mentioned anyone before.”

I shrugged, trying to play it cool. “I’m 21, not 15. I can go out with whoever I want now.”

But as I said it, I couldn’t help the tiny smile tugging at the corners of my mouth. The truth was, even though they were being ridiculous, there was something oddly comforting about their nosiness. They were all older than me and had always been protective, especially since they knew my past. They were annoying, but they cared.
Zachary shook his head, smirking. “Just don’t stay out too late. And if it is a date, we’ll want all the details when you get back.” I sighed, making my way toward the door. “I’ll be sure to leave out the parts that are none of your business.”

As I finally made my escape, I couldn’t help but smile to myself. Their teasing, though relentless, had taken some of the edge off my nerves. I was still unsure about the whole thing—about letting someone in after everything I’d been through.
But maybe, just maybe, it wouldn’t be as terrifying as I thought.