Before long both of them had fallen asleep. When Jess's mom came to wake her up and saw Aaron was back she began calling people to tell them and by the time they woke up on their own there was a party set for that night.

"I'm so sorry Aaron. I can't believe Mom did that. I'll tell her to cancel."

"No, it's fine. I need to talk to you eventually."

"Is it important?"

"Kind of," Aaron nervously ran his fingers through his hair then jammed them in his pockets.

"Oh, okay. Maybe we could talk when the party dies down or something."

"Yeah, that sounds good." Aaron walked outside.

"Mom, have you noticed Aaron's been acting strange?"

"No, he seems fine to me sweetie. Is everything okay?"

"I don't know he seems nervous."

"Are you sure it's not you?"

"Mom! Yes I'm sure it's not me. He's been shoving his hands in his pockets and he's really quiet. He said he needed to talk to me."

"Ooo he needs to TALK." Mom taunted.

"Mom, you're so mean to me."

"No I'm not. You're just fun to pick on."

Changing the subject Jess quickly blurted, "Mom, why did you have to go plan that party?"

"I was excited."

"It's okay Mom. I'm not mad at you I just think Aaron had planned for us to be alone for awhile."

"I only invited people who are like family."

"I'm really not mad Mom."

"Morning sweethearts." Dad walked into the room and hugged both women, "Is that Aaron out there talking to that tree?"

"Huh?" Jess looked out the window to see Aaron talking to a tree trunk. "Oh my goodness… should I go out there?"

"No let me." Dad kissed jess' cheek and stepped outside. "Hey kid, are you ok?"

"Hey Dad. Yeah, I'm fine, just a little nervous."

"Oh…"

"How's Jess been doing with me gone?"

"She's been okay, but she talked about you a lot. I could tell she missed you."

Aaron was silent for a minute then turned to him, "Dad?"

"Yes Aaron?"

"Does your offer still stand?"

"Are you serious Aaron?"

"Absolutely."

"Of course it does Aaron." He paused, "When?"

"I was actually planning on asking her tonight after dinner but Mom planned that party on us."

"I'll tell her to cancel."

"No! I mean, please don't."

"You sure?"

"I'm positive, just don't tell and kind of clear people out before it gets late."