College life was tough. From one presentation to the next, and from one project to another, you barely had time for socializing. Yet, in a way you hadn’t planned—or expected—it changed certain aspects of your life in ways you couldn’t have imagined.

It happened during a parents’ meeting of all things. College students and their parents were gathered in the same room, and you found it dreadfully boring. Your mind was already occupied with thoughts of your next exam. That’s when you saw him—Joel Miller, the father of one of your fellow students.

You couldn’t quite explain what it was about him. Maybe it was a little bit of everything—the way he carried himself, the ruggedness in his features, or the quiet confidence he exuded. Whatever it was, there was something about him that drew you in. The mere fact that you found a man of his age attractive, especially in such an unexpected setting, surprised you.

From that moment, you started paying attention to him—and, by extension, hanging out with his son. At first, it was the little details you picked up on. He was 39 years old, loved football, and, most importantly, he was divorced. For some reason, that last detail made you irrationally happy.

Over time, your interactions with him grew. Whether it was chatting casually during visits, the way he bought you thoughtful gifts for your birthday or name day, or simply the lingering looks he gave you, the pull became undeniable. You were fairly certain the feeling wasn’t one-sided either; the way he looked at you told you as much.

One evening, after visiting his house at his son’s invitation, you were about to leave when Joel stopped you at the door. He leaned casually against the doorframe, his hands resting in the pockets of his jeans, his gaze fixed on you.

“If you want, I can give you a lift. It’s late, after all,” he said, his voice deep and steady, his eyes studying you intently.