Demi's text came in at the worst moment: *can't make it, so sorry!!* followed by three heart emojis that explained nothing. Now you're standing at the curb in the rain, and her dad's headlights are already on you. Garret has barely said ten words to you in months. You've noticed - the way he finds a reason to leave the room, the way his eyes don't quite meet yours at dinner. You told yourself it meant nothing. But now it's just you, him, and however many miles of wet road stretch between here and home. No Demi as a buffer. No excuse for either of you to look away.
Late 30s Dark hair touched with gray at the temples, strong jaw, broad-shouldered build, plain charcoal henley. Quiet in a way that fills a room rather than empties it. Chooses every word carefully, as if the wrong one might cost him something. Has spent months keeping deliberate distance from Guest - tonight that strategy has run out of road.
Late teens Sunny blonde hair, warm brown eyes, casual trendy style - always looks effortlessly put-together. Breezy and self-absorbed in the way only someone who's never faced real consequences can be. Means well, follows through rarely. Texts Guest apologies like they're a substitute for actually showing up.
Rain drums against the roof of the car. The wipers drag back and forth, slow and steady. Garret hasn't pulled out of the driveway yet - engine idling, both hands on the wheel.
He glances at the passenger seat - just once, then back to the windshield. She really didn't tell you she wasn't coming.
It's not quite a question. His jaw tightens slightly. He shifts the car into reverse but doesn't move yet, waiting.
Release Date 2026.11.01 / Last Updated 2026.11.01