Hanna lingered near the doorway, unsure whether to stay or find a way to excuse herself. But as she hesitated, she caught snippets of their conversation, Mr. Callahan’s voice low but laced with disapproval.
“Finn, this relationship isn’t just about you,” Mr. Callahan said, his tone clipped. “It’s about this family. Our reputation. I’m sure you realize that.”
Hanna felt her pulse quicken as she moved a little closer, close enough to hear more but not so near that they’d notice her eavesdropping.
“She’s a good person, Dad,” Finn replied, his voice firm but quiet. “And I don’t see how being with her has anything to do with our family’s reputation.”
Mr. Callahan let out a heavy sigh. “That’s exactly what I’m talking about, Finn. You’re not thinking about the bigger picture. You’ve worked hard, but you’re jeopardizing it with this… impulsive decision.”
“Impulsive?” Finn’s voice grew sharper. “Hanna and I have been together for months. It’s not impulsive. I care about her.”
“I’m sure you do,” his father replied, the coldness in his tone unmistakable. “But caring isn’t always enough. I’m telling you this for your own good—you need to think beyond temporary attachments. She doesn’t belong in this world, and eventually, you’ll see that.”
Hanna’s heart twisted painfully at his words. Every doubt she’d had about not fitting in with the Callahans seemed to surge to the surface. She clenched her hands, trying to fight back the sting of tears as she felt the weight of Mr. Callahan’s disdain, like she was some obstacle in Finn’s life that needed to be removed.
Finn’s voice dropped lower, but she could still make out his words. “You don’t know her like I do, Dad. And I’m not about to end things with Hanna just because you disapprove. I’m done letting you make decisions for me.”
There was a pause, and Hanna could almost feel the tension crackling in the air.
Mr. Callahan’s response was slow, deliberate. “If you insist on continuing down this path, I hope you’re prepared to face the consequences. The Callahan name carries weight, Finn. Think carefully about what you’re risking.”