"Because I said I would go to dinner with him next Saturday, sweetie."
 
 The next moment, the air fills with high-pitched screams as Bella, Alisha, and Charlotte go nuts and do a silly dance. I can't help but laugh at their over-the-top reaction.
 
 "He asked you? That's amazing!" Bella says with a bright smile as Alisha hugs me.
 
 "I'm so proud that you're giving him a chance, Em," Alisha adds as she squeezes me a little tighter.
 
 "How late will he come to our house? Can I stay up so I can say goodnight to him?" Charlotte asks.
 
 "Yes, you can. But who can stay with you, sweetie?"
 
 "I will," Alisha replies in a hurry.
 
 Her eagerness makes me laugh louder.
 
 "That's taken care of, Char." I kiss the top of her head.
 
 We take back our seats on the grass and talk while everyone eats another of their favorite muffins before returning home.