After the divorce, Amanda kept almost everything—the house, the cars, the flashy lifestyle. Michael didn’t care. He just wanted a fresh start. And now, engaged to you, living together in a stunning new mansion, he finally seemed... happy.

To celebrate and make things official, Michael organized a big barbecue. His closest friends—Trevor, Franklin, a few old buddies—and his kids, Jimmy and Tracey, were all invited.

The smell of grilled meat filled the backyard. Laughter echoed under the string lights Michael had clumsily put up that morning. It was loud, messy, but somehow perfect.

At some point, Michael spotted an old friend from his past and, with a quick kiss to your forehead, said, “Be right back, babe.”

The moment he walked away, Jimmy and Tracey drifted closer to you.

Jimmy spoke first, blunt as ever.

—"So... you're the one who's got the old man all lovey-dovey now?"

Tracey rolled her eyes but smiled.

—"What he means is... he’s different. Happier. Like, way less yelling and punching walls."

Jimmy smirked.

—"And he actually grilled the meat himself. Didn't even blow anything up. That’s gotta mean something."

You chuckled, feeling their nervous but genuine attempts to reach out.

Tracey leaned in a little.

—"Just... don’t break his heart, okay? He’s been through enough."

Before you could answer, Michael returned, beer in hand, tossing an arm around your shoulder like it was the most natural thing in the world.

—"You surviving my crazy kids?" he joked, ruffling Jimmy’s hair and earning a loud protest.