The full-length mirror was unforgiving the longer Harper stared at her reflection. Every flaw, from the cuts and bruises on her face to the dress that felt more like she was playing dress-up was magnified. She frowned, tilting her head. The navy dress was pretty but much too tight against her bruised ribs and even as she tried to stretch it out, it continued to press against her injuries. Every breath she took felt like a knife was being thrust into her chest.

She could thank Cobra Kai for that. For leaving her with injuries the night before she was going to meet her grandparents for the first time.

A sigh escaped her lips as she tugged at the hem of the dress once more but she felt ridiculous. That wouldn't change. It wasn't her style, and her anxiety was already through the roof without feeling like she was wearing a costume. She wanted to make a good impression but this felt more like playing the role of some dutiful daughter than being herself.

A knock sounded on the door before Ryan popped his head into the room with his usual grin plastered to his face. "You almost ready kid?"

"I guess," she muttered, a frown tugging at the corners of her lips.

Ryan's grin faltered slightly as he took in her expression, his eyes flicking over her outfit and the mirror behind her. He stepped into the room, his hands shoved into the pockets of his jeans, and gave her a once-over, his gaze lingering on the dress and the wince she tried to hide with a smile. "You look… uncomfortable," he observed, his tone light but knowing.

Harper shrugged, not quite meeting his eyes. "I'm fine," she said and tugged at the fabric once more in the hopes that it would ease some of the pressure on her bruises.

Ryan rolled his eyes. "Right. I've seen a better poker face from a three-year-old," he teased, his tone playful but concerned. His eyes softened as he caught sight of the bruises peeking out from the neckline of her dress and the ones that peppered her arms. "So you want to tell me what really happened last night?"

"It's… complicated," Harper answered with a shrug.

"Complicated, huh? Well, I've got a PhD in complicated, you know," he joked. "Look, kid, I know you're tough and you don't have to give me the play-by-play if you don't want to but… if this is going to be a regular thing, at least let me know. That way I can stock up on some band-aids and ice packs."

Harper smiled. "I can take care of myself, you know."

"You're my kid, I don't doubt that," he said, grinning. "But that doesn't mean I don't worry. Please tell me you got at least a few hits in yourself."

"Maybe a few," Harper admitted with a light laugh, reliving the satisfaction of the punches she'd thrown at Mitch and Trey.

Ryan nodded proudly. "That's my girl."

Harper smiled. It was nice that he cared without needing to push for more details and turning it into a lecture.

"The dress isn't helping, is it?" Ryan asked, watching as she winced with every move.

Harper hesitated, not wanting to admit how much pain she was in. "Not really, but it's fine. I can deal with it."

"You shouldn't have to 'deal with it'," he said, the playful edge fading as his eyes locked onto the bruises like they offended him personally. His hand reached out as if to touch her shoulder but he pulled back at the last second and crossed his arms. "That dress looks like it's cutting off your circulation. You know that we're not going to a board meeting, just dinner with my parents, right?"

"Yeah, but I still want them to take me seriously, you know? Not like I'm some stray you picked up on the side of the road."

Ryan's expression softened further, a look of sympathy and frustration on his face. Taking her arm, he turned her so that she faced him. "Hey, you're not a stray, okay? You're my daughter. And if they can't see that, then that's on them, not you. Got it?" His tone was firmer now, as if trying to convince her into believing him. "Look, kid, you don't need to wear a dress to make you worthy of their approval. No ones going to think any less of you if you show up as yourself."

Biting her lip, she glanced back at her reflection and didn't recognize the girl staring back at her. "I guess…. I just don't want to show up looking like I've been through… well, what I've actually been through, you know?"

"Yeah, I get it," he said quietly. "But you don't have to pretend you're something you're not. The truth is, kid, you've been through a lot, and I'm not just talking about your bruises. It doesn't make you any less of a person. It makes you stronger."

A small smile crept onto her face as she met his gaze in the mirror. Taking a deep breath, she let his words sink in but it didn't fully erase the doubt. "Yeah, but they're your parents. My grandparents. I just… I don't want to screw this up."

"You're not going to screw anything up," Ryan said with a sigh. "And if they start acting like snobby jerks, we'll leave. Simple as that, okay?" He shrugged as if it was the easiest solution in the world but his eyes remained on her with a sincerity that made her chest tighten.

"So… it's really okay if I change?"

"It's more than okay. I'd prefer it if you didn't look like you were going to a funeral," Ryan said, lightening the mood with a grin. "Go change into something you're more comfortable in."

Harper hesitated for a moment, looking down at the dress that was slowly suffocating her. It pressed down uncomfortably on her bruises, making each movement feel suppressed and painful. She met Ryan's eyes once more and saw nothing but encouragement – the unwavering support she'd come to recognize despite the short time she'd known him.

It terrified her how easily he accepted her into his life.

And it terrified her how quickly she was adjusting to this life she'd been so dead set against.

Without another word, Harper disappeared into her closet and closed the door. She took respite from the quiet and scanned the small selection of clothes that looked ridiculously out of place in the large room. Deciding on a pair of jeans and a loose sweater, she changed out of the dress and into an outfit that felt like her. That allowed her to breathe.

"Much better!" Ryan said when she stepped back out into the room. "Now I won't have to worry about you passing out before dessert."

Harper managed a small laugh though still felt anxious. She caught her reflection again, this time feeling more like herself despite the bruises that marked her skin but there wasn't much she could do about that. "So, what now?" She asked, trying to sound casual.

Leaning against the doorframe, hands shoved into his pockets, Ryan grinned. "Now? Now we go face the firing squad."

Harper arched an eyebrow but smiled despite herself. "You mean your parents?"

"Same difference," Ryan said with a shrug.

"Great. No pressure at all, right?"

"Right," he said, pushing off of the door. "We'll walk in there, smile and charm them with our winning personalities. You know, the usual."

"You think we actually have a shot?"

"Absolutely," Ryan said with a wink. "But if that doesn't work, we'll make a run for it and grab burgers and pizza on the way home."

"Sounds like a solid backup plan," Harper agreed.

"Trust me, I've perfected the art of the getaway. Years of practice," he told her, his voice full of mock seriousness.

Harper smiled at the way he made it seem so simple. "You're not nervous at all, are you?"

"Me? Nervous? Nah," he said with that mischievous glint in his eyes. "I'm kind of a pro at awkward dinners with the parents. Besides, I've got you now. They won't be able to resist the Harper charm."

"Right, because that's totally a thing," Harper snorted.

"Of course, it is. You've got that whole 'I'm cool, but I don't care' vibe going on."

Harper rolled her eyes but felt a semblance of comfort in his confidence. "Okay but what if they start asking about the bruises or bring up something from my past? What do I say?"

"You tell them the truth. That you're a badass who breaks things that get in your way," he said, shrugging with a lightheartedness that almost seemed ridiculous in the face of what they were about to do. "Seriously, kid, just tell them what you want. Tell the truth or deflect with humor, whatever. As long as you're comfortable. Don't let them put you under a microscope."

Harper nodded, her chest clenching as another wave of anxiety washed over her. She twisted the bracelet around and around as she prayed, wished, and hoped that tonight would go well. That her past wouldn't come out to haunt her like it always did.

Ryan's grin turned into something more reassuring when he noticed the way she distracted herself with the bracelet. Nudging her with his shoulder, he said, "Remember you're not alone, okay? We're a team and we stick together no matter what. Doesn't matter how tough the other team plays, we play tougher."

A little bit of the tension eased from her shoulders as she looked up at him. "You really think it'll be okay?"

"Yeah, absolutely," he replied confidently. "I've been dealing with their critical gazes and high standards for years and I'm still here, still standing."

It wasn't that Harper wasn't also used to that. She'd been at the center of every mean comment, every judgmental look for most of her life. But knowing she was meeting with family, something that was important to her, felt scarier. Because she so desperately wanted them to like her. To accept her for who she was despite the shitty cards she'd been handed in life.

"Yeah, but I'm the new player, remember? The stakes are kinda different now."

"But that's what makes it interesting. They have no idea who they're dealing with."

Harper let out a laugh, nodding slowly. "You sure you're ready for this?"

Ryan's grin grew wider. "I've never been more ready in my life. And if things do go sideways, remember the backup plan. We'll make a run for it and hit the drive-thru."

"Okay, deal," she said.

"Alright!" Ryan said with a clap of his hands. "I guess it's showtime."

Harper smiled, a flicker of resolve in her eyes. She was ready, or as ready as she would be. But she wasn't alone — not by a long shot. In a twisted turn of events, she had her dad by her side. it all felt a bit more manageable than the impending disaster she'd been prepared for.

Together, they stepped out of the room and made their way downstairs. As they reached the door, Ryan paused and looked down at her. "One last thing," he said, a hint of seriousness creeping into his voice. "No matter what happens tonight, remember one thing: you're enough. You don't need to prove anything to anyone. Not to me and especially not to them."

The gratitude she felt in that moment wasn't something she could form into words but she hoped he saw it in her eyes. Harper nodded, swallowing around the lump in her throat.

Ryan's smile returned. "That's my girl. Let's do this."

Dusk was settling in just as they pulled up to the sprawling estate. Lights poured out of the windows, bathing the manicured lawn in a warm glow. It was like a welcoming beacon. Or a warning. Harper couldn't tell. Her fingers found her bracelet, and she twisted it relentlessly until she was sure it would snap in two. Her heart thundered in her chest as Ryan drove through the massive gate and into the driveway.

The car came to a sudden stop, and Harper felt the weight of the moment settle in her chest. Her grandparents' home loomed over them, a stark contrast to anything she'd ever known. She'd faced so much over the years — from bullies to abusive foster homes. She'd stood her ground in situations where others would have crumbled. She was used to uncomfortable situations but this was different. More personal. She wanted to believe that they'd accept her but she knew, deep down, that their opinions of her had already been made.

It wouldn't be the first time she'd be judged for her past, but it was the first time that she cared.

Ryan looked over with that casual grin of his, and caught her twisting her bracelet around and around. "It'll be okay. Worst case, we bail before dessert."

Harper smiled softly, trying to steady her nerves. "True… but, like, they haven't seen me since I was like four and I just—" she paused as the anxiety threatened to consume her. "It's just… I've had enough people judging me my whole life, you know?"

"Just be yourself, kid. It's on them if they're too stuck up to see how awesome you are," Ryan said, his tone light but reassuring. "And if they don't, it's their loss. But remember, this isn't a trial. It's just dinner… with some slightly opinionated people."

"Slightly?" Harper questioned.

"Okay, maybe very opinionated but we've got this. I'm on your side, remember?"

"Right," Harper said with a nod. "Let's just get this over with."

They exited the car, and Harper felt the cool night air wash over her. It was a slight comfort against her growing anxiety but it wasn't enough to completely extinguish it. Taking a deep breath, she let it out quietly as they approached the front door which looked every bit as intimidating up front as it did from afar. It was the kind of place where expectations were as high as the ceilings and where secrets were buried in the walls.

Before Ryan could ring the doorbell, the door swung open and there was Caroline, her grandmother. Dressed in a blouse and skirt, she looked like she was ready to tackle a board meeting rather than a family dinner. Her expression was caught somewhere between surprise and mild disappointment as her eyes flicked over to their casual attire and lingered on Harper's bruises before looking back to Ryan with a polite, yet strained, smile.

"Ryan," Caroline said, her tone crisp and precise. "I see you've decided to arrive in your usual manner. And that car of yours, we heard you coming from a mile away."

His grin didn't waver, but Harper could feel the tension radiating off of him. "Yeah, well, you know me, Mom. Always making an entrance," he said, casually sliding his hands into his pockets.

Caroline's smile remained strained. "Yes, well, some things never change, I suppose." Her gaze turned to Harper, assessing her like she was some unknown entity. "And you must be Harper. It's been… quite some time, hasn't it?"

Harper felt like she was shrinking under her grandmother's scrutinizing stare. But she wasn't about to let her uneasiness show. "Yeah, it's nice to meet you," she said, her voice small despite the confidence she tried to exude.

"Well, come on in. You're father's in the study but he should be out in a minute," Caroline said, stepping back into the house and allowing them to enter.

Harper stepped into the grand entryway, unable to stop her eyes from wandering. Everything from the floor to the furniture was luxurious though a bit ridiculous for her taste. It felt like she was stepping into a museum rather than a home. She kept her hands to herself, afraid to touch anything in case she broke it. Even looking felt risky as one item felt like it cost more than all her foster homes combined.

"So," Caroline started as they stepped further into the house. "I see you both have decided to take a more… relaxed approach to dinner attire."

Harper glanced down at her jeans and sweater, feeling self-conscious for a second. She should've stuck with the dress, even if it would've given her more bruises than anything else. But before she could respond, Ryan cut in with a light tone. "We're just here for dinner with family, not some stuffy audition."

Caroline smiled but it didn't reach her eyes. "Of course, but you know how your father values presentation."

Ryan rolled his eyes subtly, a gesture that only Harper caught. "Dad values a lot of things but being genuine should count for something, right?"

Before Caroline could respond, a new voice chimed in from around the corner. "Oh, he values presentation alright," the voice said, dripping in a mix of amusement and sarcasm.

Ryan looked toward the voice, surprise crossing his face. "Mia? What are you doing here?"

Amelia "Mia" Cain stepped into view. She was a few years younger than her brother, Ryan, but she dominated the room. Impeccably dressed, her expression was unreadable but her eyes held a sharp edge as she looked around. Crossing her arms, she raised an eyebrow. "It's a family dinner, isn't it? Or have you forgotten how those work since you conveniently never make it?"

Ryan's smile faltered for just a moment before he recovered, adopting a casual tone. "No, I remember. I've just been busy," he answered with a shrug.

"Too busy to tell me you were bringing your… daughter to dinner?" Mia asked, rolling her eyes. "I had to hear from Mom that Harlow…. It is Harlow, right?"

Ryan frowned. "It's Harper actually but—"

Mia nodded slowly. "Right. Well, Mom called and said we were having a guest at dinner so how could I resist?" Her eyes were like a laser as they passed over Harper from head to toe, and a smile tugged up one corner of her lips. "Cute outfit."

"Thanks," Harper said self-consciously, finding her bracelet and twisting it around.

Mia's smile widened, her tone syrupy sweet but laced with an edge. "I mean, it's just so casual. It's almost like you're not even trying," she said, looking towards Ryan.

"She doesn't have to try. She's family," he shot back with a grin, keeping his voice steady.

"Family," Mia repeated slowly. "It's one thing for you to dress like you're going to some backyard barbecue but… whatever. It's fine. It's not like this is a big deal or anything. Just our parents who are notoriously hard to please meeting their granddaughter for the first time."

"Mia, that's enough. Harper's dressed… nicely," Caroline said. Her words were polite, but her tone carried a subtle hint of disapproval. But whether it was directed at Mia's comments or Harper's appearance, she didn't know.

Mia glanced at her mom, her smile growing tighter. "Of course she is. Like I said, her outfit's cute." But when she turned back to Harper, the smirk returned. "But I guess that doesn't really matter, does it? It's not like we were expecting someone… polished."

Harper felt the sting of Mia's words, but she kept her expression neutral. "I didn't realize there was a dress code," she said lightly, even as her fingers twisted around the bracelet.

Mia raised an eyebrow, her smile never wavering. "There's always a dress code. Even if it's unspoken," she said, her tone sharp and lingering as if waiting for Harper to falter.

"And since when do you set the dress code, Mia?" A deep voice interrupted. A tall man, with a presence that commanded attention, stepped into the room. He exuded a quiet authority that seemed to fill the space, his tailored suit fitting perfectly as if he'd just come from some important meeting. His sharp, assessing eyes took in the room, momentarily pausing on Harper.

"Hey, dad," Ryan said with forced casualness. "You've come out of your study."

"I heard voices," Richard replied, his tone clipped. "And I wanted to properly meet my granddaughter. So, you must be Harper."

Aware that all eyes were on her, Harper straightened up and nodded. "Yes," she said, her voice surprisingly steady.

Richard's eyes narrowed as they swept over her, lingering on the bruises. She held her breath, waiting for the onslaught of questions to begin, but they never came. Instead, he placed a hand on her shoulder and led her through the house. "So, tell me, how are you settling in with Ryan? I know it must be an adjustment given your… history but I hope it's been good."

"I'm pretty good at adjusting, so it's been okay ," Harper answered, her voice steady but guarded as she tried to focus on the conversation instead of the weight of his gaze.

Richard nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Ryan's always been a bit unpredictable. But I trust he's been looking out for you?"

"Definitely," Harper said, surprising herself with how sure and quick her answer was. "He's been great, and I'm getting used to things."

What had started as a very rocky start with Ryan had quickly turned into something more comfortable. A supportive bond that felt genuine – something she didn't think was possible at the time. He had this laid back approach to parenting that somehow worked, even if he came off as unconventional at times. One minute he was treating her like a friend, and the next he was giving advice. It was a strange dynamic but it worked.

"I'm glad to hear he's stepping up. It can't be easy for him either, taking on the responsibility of a teenager with such unique circumstances," Richard said.

Harper clenched her jaw at his choice of words. "I'm not some burden, if that's what you're getting at," she said quietly, her tone sharper than she intended.

He looked down at her and a flicker of surprise crossed his face at her words. "No. No, of course not," he assured her. "I only meant that he's never exactly been one for long-term commitments. He always jumped from one thing to another," Richard finished, his tone careful but carrying that underlying judgment. "It's a big change for him, adjusting to being a father all of a sudden."

Harper's stomach twisted at the way he talked about Ryan, as if he was casting doubt that he could handle it – or worse, that she wasn't worth the effort. She'd been there before. She was used to people doubting whether she was worth the hassle but this time felt different. This time is was family casting that doubt. Her fingers twisted the bracelet tighter as she fought to keep her voice even.

"Ryan's doing fine. More than fine, actually," she said. "It's been kinda a rough start but we're working on it. He's doing the best he can."

"Thanks, kid," Ryan said with that easy smile of his as he stepped up beside her. But there was something else in his eyes… surprise. Gratefulness. "But, yeah, what she said. We're trying to figure this whole thing out but we got this."

Richard's gaze flicked between them, his expression unreadable for a moment. The unspoken weight of judgments and expectations hung heavily in the air.

"Well," Richard said but there was a hint of something – reluctance, maybe? – in his tone. "That's good to hear. It's important that you both are making an effort in this new arrangement. It's not easy, being thrown into something like this but it seems like you're managing."

"Yeah, we are," Harper said with a nod.

"We're doing more than managing, dad," Ryan said, his tone still light but firmer now. "It's not perfect, but what family is, right?"

"That's true," Caroline said from behind them. "Family is important, but so is responsibility. Your father and I just want to make sure you both understand that. That you're taking this seriously."

Ryan's smile didn't falter as he looked at his parents, but Harper could see the way his shoulders tensed slightly. "We are. We'll keep figuring this out."

A silence spread between them as they entered the dining room. It was just as formal and intimidating as the rest of the house – furniture that looked straight out of a magazine, a pristine white tablecloth and place settings that looked too perfect to touch. It lacked that familiar feeling, instead resembling more of a state dinner than one between family. Harper hesitated as she stepped in but Ryan gave her a reassuring wink before guiding her towards the table.

"We got this," he whispered as he sat down beside her.

Harper nodded, her heart beating a bit too rapidly. She told herself it was just dinner but that was a lie. Every move she made, every word she said was being watched and judged. Normally she didn't care what anyone thought but this mattered to her more than anything.

Caroline moved around the table with practiced grace before she took her seat. "I'm glad to hear you both are committed to making this work. You know that family dynamics can be delicate, but effort is what counts."

"Effort, yes," Richard said as he took his seat at the head of the table. "But what's more important is doing the right thing, consistently."

Every word that was said seemed to carry a subtle undercurrent of doubt. And Harper realized that she wasn't the only one on trial that night – Ryan was, too. It was like they were all waiting for them to slip up. She turned to Ryan, catching the determined look in his eyes as he lightly drummed his fingers on the edge of the table. He was nervous, she realized. It was one of those rare moments where his easygoing nature slipped, revealing a more protective side she hadn't seen much.

"I'm not taking this lightly," Ryan said, leveling his parents with a look. "I know how important this is, and I'm not going to screw it up."

"That's all we ask. We just want to ensure that Harper feels stable," Caroline said.

The word 'stable' hung in the air like a challenge. Harper knew exactly what they were getting at – her past, the challenges she'd faced, the instability that came with bouncing from one foster home to the next. They didn't trust her, and maybe they didn't trust Ryan, either. At least, not completely.

"I am. I mean, it's not perfect but I'm doing okay. We both are," Harper said.

Ryan gave her a quick smile, one of reassurance. "More than okay. And like I said, we got this."

A brief, uncomfortable silence followed as the weight of the conversation lingered in the air. But then Mia, who had been watching with barely disguised amusement, leaned forward and broke the tension. "Well, now that we've gotten the heavy stuff out of the way, should we eat before everything gets cold?"

Her comment was light, but Harper could sense the subtle jab beneath her words. A knowing smirk tugged at the corner of her lips as her eyes flicked between Ryan and Harper.

"Sounds good," Ryan said, his voice casual again.

As the meal began, the tension didn't entirely dissipate. A conversation that felt more forced than natural started up at the table. It excluded Harper, but she was more than okay with that. She kept her head down and picked at the food on her plate, trying to avoid the scrutiny she could feel radiating from across the table. Even though no one was saying anything, it was obvious in the way their eyes flicked towards her that judgments were being passed. She was still the center of attention even as the conversation floated around business, acquaintances, and other topics she had no context for.

But soon, the conversation circled back to her.

"So, Harper," Richard began, his tone casual despite the unmistakable undercurrent it carried. His gaze flicked the bruises that peaked out from beneath her sweater, and she self-consiously tugged at the sleeves. "It looks ilke you've had a bit of a rough time. I assume Ryan's aware of how you got those?"

Harper could feel everyone's eyes on her, including Mia's smug curiosity and Caroline's thinly veiled disapproval. A soft sigh escaped her lips, knowing this would be brought up eventually. Everyone was dying to know what happened, and it wasn't because they were concerned. It was another attempt to judge her, to disapprove of her life. She kept her grip on the fork, forcing her expression to stay neutral despite the nerves that crept in.

"Yeah, I know all about it," Ryan said, jumping in before she could answer. "You think I wouldn't notice her coming home covered in bruises? I'm not that blind."

"I see," Richard said, keeping his gaze firmly on Harper. "And what exactly happened?"

Harper tensed, feeling her face heat up. She wasn't embarrassed by the fight, but saying it aloud felt like giving them more ammunition to use against her. "I just had a rough week, that's all. It's nothing I can't handle."

"Seems like you've had a lot of those," Mia said quietly.

Ryan shot his sister a disapproving look before turning back to Harper. "You don't have to explain yourself if you don't want to, kid."

"Of course, she doesn't, Ryan. Harper has a right to her privacy, but we're just concerned about the kind of… extracurriculars she's involved in. And the company that she keeps," Caroline said, determined not to let this conversation end without an explanation.

Harper glanced around the table where all eyes were on her, waiting for her to speak up. She knew she didn't have to say anything, she could deflect or make something up. But something told her that avoiding the topic would only make things worse. "I got in a fight last night," she said with a shrug, ignoring the way Mia's eyes lit up at the answer. "Some guys from school were being jerks and I defended myself."

"So, you're saying that you resorted to violence?" Caroline asked, each word dripping with judgment.

"I defended myself," Harper repeated, hating how she had to justify her actions. How everything she said or did that night was judged. "I didn't exactly have a choice."

"There's always a choice," Richard commented.

"Maybe. But it was either defend myself or get beat up," Harper explained.

Richard nodded slowly before turning to his son. "Ryan, you seem remarkably at ease about your daughter getting into fights. Don't tell me that you're okay with this kind of behavior."

"I'm okay with her standing up for herself. And she held her own in," Ryan answered but the looks on his parents' faces told them that they were anything but pleased with the answer. "Look, it's not like Harper's out there starting fights for fun. She's defending herself, and I trust her. She wouldn't throw a punch unless she had to."

"But there's other ways of handling things without resorting to violence, you know," Caroline said. "You can't just go around punching people. You can talk it out or, better yet, walk away."

"You think I haven't tried that?" Harper asked, incredulous. "I didn't start anything. They came at me, and I tried to walk away. I really did. But when they threw the first punch, I threw one back. I defended myself, and I'm not sorry about that."

"You don't have anything to apologize for," Ryan said. "Now can we stop giving her the third degree? She's here for dinner, not to be put on trial."

"We're not putting her on trial," Caroline said gently but her scrutinizing gaze said otherwise. "We're just trying to understand."

"Mom and dad have a reason to worry, Ry," Mia interrupted with a smirk. "I'm just saying, Harper doesn't exactly have the cleanest record."

Harper lowered her fork to the plate, her stomach sinking at the knowing look Mia threw her. It was as if to say that no matter what, she'd never shake her past. She hated that once again her life was being dissected before her. Hated how every action and decision she ever had to make to survive the last twelve years was being taken apart and scrutinized. She'd been through most kids her age and, while that should count for something, it always seemed to work against her. While she'd made mistakes – she was human after all – she'd done what felt right at the time. Each choice had been necessary, a step she had to take to ensure her survival. But now, all those moments felt like strikes against her.

"Mia, that's enough," Ryan said, his time sharp and unwavering. "Harper's been through more than you can imagine, so unless you're here to support her, maybe keep your thoughts to yourself and back off."

Mia's smile faltered, but she masked it quickly with an eye roll. "Alright, whatever."

Harper took a steadying breath and met Mia's gaze with a calm that she didn't quite feel. "Look, I know I made a lot of mistakes. And, yeah, my record isn't spotless, but I've been through, like, twelve foster homes in ten years. And a lot of them were really, really bad so I did what I had to do to get by. Maybe you'll never understand that, but I don't need anyone's approval for surviving."

A flicker of something unreadable crossed Mia's face, but she didn't respond.

Instead, Richard cleared his throat, breaking the silence that had fallen over the table. "Alright, that's enough for now. We've all made mistakes one way or another. So let's move forward."

Much to her relief, the conversation shifted to safer ground. The tension slowly eased as they continued their meal with Richard and Caroline discussing upcoming family plans and events. She was thankful for the temporary reprieve, that the attention was geared away from her. It wouldn't last, she knew that, but she would take any break she could get from the judgments and questions. She looked to her right where Ryan sat beside her, listening as his parents and sister talked. He looked almost as bored as she did, even as he was pulled into the conversation. Sensing that she was looking, he turned to her and rolled his eyes dramatically.

A smile tugged at her lips, at the subtle reminder that she wasn't as alone in this as she first thought. He was on her side, just like he said he was. And he had as much to prove tonight as she did, maybe more. It wasn't an easy situation to navigate but they were almost out of the woods. They would get through this, and this dinner would just be one bad nightmare that they survived.

"So, Harper," Caroline began as her gaze turned to her, her expression more curious than before. "I hope you're thinking about what comes after high school. Do you have any plans for college?"

"Not really, no," Harper said with a shake of her head. "I haven't really thought that far ahead. I've kinda been focused more on, you know, just getting through high school."

Her life in the system taught her to take everything one day at a time, to never plan anything out because nothing was never set in stone. She knew better than to hope, to make plans when everything could change in the blink of an eye. And she followed that rule wholeheartedly. It was what made some of the more shittier experiences easier to get through because she knew they'd pass just as quickly as they came. But college? A career? All of that seemed so out of reach. Like a luxury she wasn't allowed to have or even think about.

"Well, you're in your junior year, correct?" Richard asked, his brows knitting at her answer. "It's not too early to start considering your options. Most kids your age already have a plan, you know. College applications are just around the corner."

"Yeah, I know. It's just… I guess I haven't really figured that out," Harper admitted.

"Not even a little bit?" Mia asked.

"I mean, I've thought about a few things," Harper said, hesitating as the pressure built around the table while everyone awaited her answer. "But it's kinda hard to think about the future when things haven't exactly been stable, you know?"

"That's understandable, Harper," Caroline started, "But college and a career – it's a foundation for your future. Something you should start to take more seriously."

Harper nodded, wishing that she could be the kind of girl who had her life figured out. Who knew exactly what school she wanted to attend, what career she had in mind for herself. But she wasn't. To think about a future that extended beyond the next few months, let alone years, was a luxury that she didn't have. It didn't feel natural to expect anything to last given how her life had played out until this very moment.

Even now it was uncertain given the custody battle.

Sensing her unease, Ryan jumped in. "Harper's got time to think about this. I mean, she's only sixteen. It's not like she has to figure everything out overnight."

"That's true," Richard said slowly before focusing on Harper once more. "But it wouldn't be bad to start thinking about it now."

"She'll figure it out," Ryan said again, his confidence in her unwavering.

Richard nodded thoughtfully. "In the meantime, it might be a good idea to get involved in some after-school activities or clubs. Colleges look for that sort of thing you know. And it might help you discover interests you didn't realize you had."

"What are your interests?" Caroline asked.

Harper hesitated, wondering how to explain that this was yet another thing she hadn't given much thought to. She'd been too busy surviving, moving from one home to the next, to even think about something as mundane as clubs. The whole high school experience was for kids who lived a normal life, not someone like her.

"I haven't really thought about that. I mean, I never really saw the point in joining anything when I kept moving so I don't really know what I'm interested in."

"Nothing?" Caroline asked, surprised. "It doesn't have to be anything elaborate. And you have an opportunity now to find something that piques your interest."

"What about fight club?" Mia asked, a smile tugging at her lips. "You know, since you're so good at defending yourself."

Harper clenched her jaw but she kept her voice steady. "I think I'll pass on that, but thanks."

Ryan shot Mia a warning look. "Can you cut it out? She doesn't need your commentary."

"That's right," Richard spoke up firmly, leaving no room for argument. "Let's keep this conversation constructive, shall we, Mia?"

"Fine," Mia said and shrugged but the smirk played on her lips, seemingly happy with the reaction she'd gotten.

"You don't need to make any decisions now," Richard said, turning his attention back to Harper. "Just keep an open mind."

"Yeah, I will," Harper said though the idea of finding what was deemed a 'normal' activity felt daunting. Unrealistic.

"Hey, don't stress." Ryan leaned back in his chair with that easy grin and nudged her shoulder. "We're both more of the 'figure it out as we go' type anyway, right?"

Harper couldn't help but smile, rolling her eyes in a way that perfectly mirrored his own expression. It was a shared look of defiance and humor that felt natural, almost instinctive. Almost as if they shared an unspoken language, a silent understanding. They didn't need words to know they were both just trying to get through this dinner intact. Even if it was one eye roll at a time.

Richard watched them, amusement lighting up his face. "We used to see that same look on your face every time we asked you to join something or follow a plan. Seems you've got that same streak in you, Harper," Richard said.

"I suppose you two really are more alike than I realized," Caroline said reluctantly as she looked between them.

"What can I say?" Ryan asked, his grin widening as he shot Harper a quick wink. "Some people like structure and plans but some of us are born to make it up as we go. We just like to keep life interesting. Besides, where's the fun in knowing every single step?"

The way that he phrased it made her feel a sense of solidarity. All her life, she was always the girl who lived in an unpredictable world where traditional goals and dreams were unrealistic. Out of reach. So the idea of embracing the uncertainty as something positive was both new and freeing. It was okay that she didn't have a perfectly laid out plan. And it was just as okay for her to take each day one at a time.

"Well, you've certainly made our lives interesting by throwing caution to the wind. We never knew where you'd end up," Richard said. "I didn't realize you'd pass that down."

Ryan leaned closer to Harper, his voice dropping as if they were conspiring. "See, kid? It's a family tradition. We're legacy rebels."

A smile tugged at her lips but she rolled her eyes.

Caroline cleared her throat, a small, controlled sound that brought Harper's attention back to the table. Her hands were folded neatly in her lap, and a somewhat disapproving frown rested on her face. "Well, as charming as this 'rebellious legacy' may sound, just remember that spontaneity has its limits. There are certain things in life that can't be managed by simply winging it. Eventually, Harper, you'll need structure — something stable to lean on. And, Ryan, that'll be up to you to provide for her."

Ryan raised an eyebrow, unfazed by his mothers thinly veiled reprimand. "Yeah, mom, I get it. You don't have to worry about me messing this up. I only want the best for her."

"Good," Caroline said, her voice gentle yet cautious as her expression softened. "Because she deserves it."

Harper shifted in her seat, somewhat uncomfortable with the statement. The words felt heavy, like some standard she had to live up to. She could count on one hand how many people in her life told her she deserved something good and stable. She'd gone from being tossed aside like yesterday's trash, unworthy of even a few kind words, to someone who suddenly deserved to be happy and safe. As unnerving as it was, it brought a wave of happiness to her and she couldn't hide the smile on her face.

Perhaps everything would work out. Perhaps she could allow herself to hope for the best instead of always expecting the worst.

"Thanks," Harper said, her voice soft as she twisted the bracelet around her wrist.

Richard leaned back in his seat, studying them with a thoughtful expression. "Well, perhaps we should give you both the benefit of the doubt. Shouldn't we, Caroline?"

"Yes, I suppose we should," she agreed.

"After all," Richard added with a hint of a smile tugging at his lips, "even rebels need a chance to prove themselves."

Ryan's grin widened and he raised his glass in a mock toast. "To rebels proving themselves."

Harper rolled her eyes but clinked her glass against his.

What had started as an evening filled with scrutinizing questions and glances, had shifted to something softer, more accepting. Harper still felt like an outsider, and perhaps that would never completely change, but now she had the sense of possibly fitting in. Of finding a place where she belonged and with a family she hadn't known existed until just recently. The hard edges of her grandparents' initial judgment had softened, replaced with curiosity and what felt like the beginnings of acceptance. There was an opening here for her to belong, and she found herself being cautiously optimistic.

She glanced over at Ryan, who smiled encouragingly at her, as if to say, See? We're getting through this. Harper hadn't expected this father-daughter relationship to develop like this – so naturally and with a rhythm that almost felt normal. They shared an unspoken understanding and a connection that had been missing from her life for so long. Seeing him smile at her with that quiet reassurance of his, made her feel like she was part of something real, a family.

But a familiar guilt began to creep in as she processed this. The Hudson's. They were still fighting to adopt her, still offering her a home that felt steady and safe in a way nothing else ever had. They had been the ones who had pulled her in just when she'd begun to lose hope of ever finding happiness – they showed her what it was to be truly loved and valued without any strings attached. Not once had they given up on her. They stood by her side when she pushed them away and through every bad decision she'd made in the last few months. They accepted her with all of her flaws and showed her that she wasn't disposable.

Having gone from having no one in her life, she was now caught between two families, two worlds.

Harper felt torn because she felt this unexpected pull to belong here, too. It was like she was betraying her foster family by even wanting a relationship with Ryan, with a family that was only just starting to accept her. She couldn't ignore this connection that she had with them – this chance to know her own father.

She glanced over at Ryan, who was watching her with a steady, open expression that held no judgment or pressure – only the reassurance that he was here for her no matter what. She told herself that maybe, just maybe, she didn't have to give up one family to accept another. That both could exist but she knew how unrealistic that was. Taking a deep breath, she loosened her grip on her bracelet and told herself that she didn't have to have it all figured out tonight.

After all, the decision belonged to the court.

And for the first time, that brought her a sense of relief because this wasn't a decision she wanted to make on her own.

She couldn't.

But for tonight, just being here was enough. She could let herself exist in this moment without feeling like she had to choose between two pieces of her life.

≫ ──── ≪•◦ ❈ ◦•≫ ──── ≪

Thank you for reading! I hope you liked this chapter.

I'm excited to see what you guys think about Ryan, Mia, and her grandparents. Should Harper trust them or keep her walls up?

Reviews would be lovely.