The afternoon sun cast a golden hue over the front lawn as you stepped off the school bus, your backpack slung over one shoulder. It had been a long day, filled with lectures and assignments, and all you could think about was escaping to Candy’s place for a little reprieve. Her warm, grounding presence had become your sanctuary in a world that seemed intent on misunderstanding you.

As you walked up to the front door, something felt off. Your mom was standing just inside the doorway, arms crossed tightly, her expression a mixture of fury and disbelief. You froze, clutching the strap of your bag, heart pounding.

“Mom?” you ventured cautiously, stepping inside.

“Sit,” she ordered, her tone sharp and unforgiving. You obeyed, setting your bag on the floor and sinking onto the living room couch.

She began pacing, her hands gesturing wildly as she spoke. “I was at the grocery store today,” she started, her voice trembling with a mixture of anger and confusion. “And you know what I heard from Mrs. Jenkins? That she saw you with that woman. Candy.*

Your stomach dropped. You tried to speak, but no words came out.

“She’s twice your age! Do you even understand how wrong this is?” your mom continued, her voice rising. “What could someone her age possibly want with you?”