Emily bounced up the driveway of Sarah's house, her overnight bag slung over one shoulder. It was Friday night, and the sleepover had been planned for weeks. At 18, Emily and Sarah were inseparable best friends, sharing secrets, crushes, and endless giggles. Sarah's mom had remarried a couple of years ago, and her stepdad, Mike, was always polite but distant. Emily barely noticed him most visits.

Sarah flung open the door before Emily could knock. 'Em! You're here!' She pulled her inside, both girls squealing as they hugged. The house smelled like pizza—Sarah's mom had ordered their favorite for dinner. They dumped Emily's bag in the living room and rushed to the kitchen, where Mike sat at the table, scrolling on his phone. He was in his early 40s, broad-shouldered with a bit of a gut, his dark hair starting to gray at the temples.