Intense

"Just so you know," he said. "If you were, I uh...I wouldn't have any issues with you for it. You're my son, and I just want you to be happy."

I smiled, happy just to hear him say something like that...

When I moved in with him and Jamie, my father and I hadn't exactly had the greatest relationship. Not that it was a bad one, either, it's just that...well...there was no relationship. I was just looking for a way to get away from my mother, I didn't move in with him because we were the perfect father and son. But, hearing him say those words and show concern for me like this, gave me a feeling like maybe we had a chance to change that.

"Thanks, Dad," I said.

"Now," he cleared his throat. "Go upstairs to your room...I want you inside for the rest of the weekend. And the next time you decide to stay out overnight, you'd better make damn sure you let me or Jamie know."

"Yessir."

I turned and started towards the stairs, but before I could make it halfway there, Jamie stopped me. "Ryan!"

I turned around nervously, hoping they hadn't decided to change my punishment to a more severe one.

"When exactly do you think we'll meet Bailey, anyway?"

I blinked. "Uh...m-meet her?"

I hadn't quite thought about that. Sure, Bailey had been to my house many times, to play video games, watch TV, listen to music or...well...the obvious. My parents had never actually been home any of those times though, to meet her for themselves...the thought had never even crossed my mind.

Then again, why would it? Sure you introduce your friends to your parents, but it's not typically as big of a deal as it is when you introduce them to a girlfriend or whatever...I'd made it pretty clear, that I and Bailey were not in any sort of relationship.

"Uh, well...I'm sure you'll meet her sooner or later."

"How about you invite her to dinner," Jamie smiled.

"Dinner?"

"Sure, maybe tonight, if she's not busy."

I felt like Jamie was making a bigger deal out of this than necessary, but I knew