128 Engaged

"I'm sorry about this." I reached over and gave Dakota's hand a gentle squeeze, thinking of Dad leaving the room so abruptly. "I'll be right back."

Dakota held my hand for a moment, sincerity coloring his eyes. "Would you like me to talk to him with you?"

I shook my head. "No, but thanks. I'll be fine." I leaned down and kissed his cheek. "I'll be right back."

He nodded as he let my hand go.

When I walked into the kitchen, Dad was banging around the pots and pans, preparing to cook Christmas dinner.

"Dad, I was going to start cooking in a little while." I said calmly, slowly taking a pan out of his hand. 

Dad sighed, shaking his head. "Jess, you're still a baby! You're only a junior in high school! You've got your whole life ahead of you!" He let out a deep breath and then looked into my eyes. "Why the rush?"