I was laughing hysterically like a drunk woman as I climbed up the stairs clumsily. If you'd seen me, you'd think I was a mad woman. It was such an amazing night. Holding Jack's hand, dancing with him, and his hands on my waist. What was not to like about him? He was the perfect boy for me.

"Aly."

I could hear my dad's voice behind me.

"Are you alright?"

I took in a deep breath to stop myself from laughing...only to end up laughing more. I laughed so hard I fell over and hit my head on the floor. It did hurt, but not much.

"YES I AM!" I screamed. I laughed more hoarsely.

I could see Dad's angry face looming over me. "You're not drunk, are you?"

I took a couple more deep breaths. It was only then that I was finally able to stop laughing.

"No," I said, breathing hoarsely.

"Good." He held out his hand. I took it and helped myself up.

"You look angry," I said, wiping my dress to get the dirt and dust off.

He pursed his lips. "I am. And it's not at you. It's at Jack."

I raised my eyebrows. "Why?"

"He kissed your hand. Your mother saw. She's okay with it, even though you're not allowed to date anyone yet."

"Why is Jack kissing my hand such a big deal?"

"I'm scared he'll hurt you! Aly, I'm going to talk with him, and I don't want you interfering."

I watched him go past me.

"Dad, wait-"

I was going to stop him, but then I thought again. When Dad got angry with someone, it would be best if that person took his wrath, because if they didn't, then it would end being even worse than before. Besides, when Dad gets angry, it could take him as little as an hour for him to forget why he was even angry in the first place. I know first-hand. He's been angry with me before, and it was ugly, but he always forgot after an hour.

Jack could handle it, right?