"Happy Birthday!" Keegan's family shouted in unison, their voices echoing through the air with exuberant joy. I found myself enveloped in a sea of unfamiliar faces, their smiles warm and welcoming. It was a strange feeling, to be the center of attention in a group of people I had only just met, but there was a genuine kindness in their eyes that made the experience less overwhelming.
Keegan had been insistent about taking me to his family's lake house for what he called a "private getaway," a chance for us to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As we drove up, the sight of a few cars parked haphazardly around the house was the first hint that this was far from a secluded retreat.
Before I could protest or question, Keegan had gently placed his hands over my eyes, leading me towards the house with a playful grin.
"Trust me," he whispered, his breath warm against my ear.
