The moment my eyes flutter open, excitement fizzes through me like champagne bubbles. Today was the day—the date that had been circled in my head since Derek asked me out. I can hardly believe it as I spring out of bed. The sunlight streams through the sheer curtains and creates a dappled, dancing pattern on the carpet as I change into fresh lingerie and a comfortable bandeau dress.

The thump of my steps coming down the stairs must have alerted Mom because her voice calls out from the kitchen, “Morning, Kayla!” I walk into the kitchen and perform a pirouette just after entering.

Dad chuckles and states, “Someone is excited for her big date.”

I grin, nodding eagerly as I scoop scrambled eggs onto my plate and add some bacon. “Can't wait," I reply, trying to keep my voice light and even, but utterly fail to mask my excitement completely. Harper and I have been on many dates, but none of them have ever left us this excited and almost breathless in anticipation. Harper catches my eye from across the table, her doe-brown eyes sparkling with shared anticipation. We didn't need words; our mirrored excitement says it all.