A FEW DAYS LATER, Dad took me to Michael’s warehouse space, and I spent hours looking through the racks of amazing clothes. I bought bags and bags full of stuff with the Christmas money Nana had sent me, for next to nothing.

Dad and Michael helped me carry all my loot up to my room. Michael and I agreed that a few items could use some added flair. “I can lend you my BeDazzler,” he said.

“I’ve always wanted a BeDazzler!” If I am one hundred percent totally honest, I kind of love Michael, and I hope my dad can hold on to him.

The three of us headed downstairs just as the bell rang. I answered the door.

It was Jared.

“Oh. Hi! You’re home early.”

“Just got in this morning. Dad got called back for some big meeting.” Then he saw my dad and Michael. “Hey, Mr. Anderson.” He shook hands with my dad, then looked at Michael.

I didn’t know what to say. When it became clear I wasn’t going to introduce them, Michael stuck out his hand. “I’m Michael.”

“Jared.” They shook.

“Michael’s a friend of the family,” I said.

Dad and Michael shared a look. And yes, I saw the disappointment. It’s complicated, I wanted to say.

“We’ll be on our way,” Dad said.

I followed them to the patio doors in the kitchen, feeling a twinge of guilt. “Thanks again for bringing me to your warehouse,” I said. “I really, really appreciate it.”

“You’re welcome,” Michael replied. His tone was a bit frosty. They stepped outside and headed to the laneway house.

Jared had followed me into the kitchen. He helped himself to a banana from the bowl on the counter.

“I’m glad you’re back,” I said.

“Me too.” He kissed me, and he smelled like banana, which wasn’t entirely pleasant. “We still on for New Year’s Eve?”

“For sure.”

“We can’t hang out at my house ’cause my parents will be there. They’re having a party.”

“You could come here. My mom and Leonard are going to be away.”

His eyes lit up. “Really?”

I nodded. “We could invite Lauren and a couple other people over, too.” I still wasn’t sure I wanted to be alone with him.

“You could have a New Year’s party.”

I shook my head. “A few people, maybe, but that’s it. My dad’s going to be checking in on us, and he lives right there.” I pointed at the laneway house.

Then I froze.

I could see my dad and Michael in his little living room. Michael was hugging my dad and stroking his hair.

My eyes darted to Jared. But he was turned away, throwing out his banana peel. I grabbed his arm and practically dragged him out of the room. “Let me show you all the stuff I got for Christmas.”

I’m almost one hundred percent totally definitely pretty much positive he didn’t see a thing.