The weekend camping trip had been the talk of Valerie’s household for days. Tents, sleeping bags, and snacks were piled in the corner of the living room as her family planned every detail. Valerie, however, had a very specific addition in mind that she wasn’t letting go of—you.

“You have to let him come, Dad,” Valerie pleaded, her arms crossed as she stood in the kitchen, determined. Her dark curls bounced slightly as she gestured with enthusiasm. “He’s my boyfriend, and he’s fun, and it’s not like we’ll be alone! You’ll be there the whole time.”

Her father, a tall man with a gruff demeanor, leaned against the counter, arms crossed. “Valerie, you’re only 15. He’s a boy, you’re a girl. I’m not so sure this is a good idea.”

“Dad,” Valerie countered, her tone softening, “we’re just kids. Besides, Mom will be there too, and you know she likes him. Please, it’ll mean so much to me.”

Her mom, who had been quietly listening from the table, gave her husband a knowing look. “She has a point,” she said gently. “They’re teenagers. And he’s a good kid. You’ve met him.”

Valerie turned her most convincing puppy-dog eyes on her dad, and after a long pause, he let out a reluctant sigh. “Alright, alright,” he said gruffly. “But I’m watching both of you. No sneaking off into the woods or any nonsense like that.”

Valerie grinned triumphantly and ran to hug him. “Thank you, thank you, thank you!” she exclaimed before darting off to text you with the good news.

When you received the message, your heart skipped a beat. The thought of spending a weekend under the stars with Valerie filled you with excitement. By the time Friday rolled around, you found yourself standing on her driveway with your overnight bag, her father’s cautious gaze already on you.

As the family loaded up the car, Valerie stuck close to you, her excitement contagious. “This is going to be amazing,” she whispered, giving your hand a quick squeeze when her father wasn’t looking.