CHAPTER 62: COUNTDOWN

"Alex, it's your turn to take out the trash!" I call out, struggling to be heard over the blaring "Can't Feel My Face" resonating from the speakers in the expansive Fayers' living room. My brother strolls into the kitchen moments later, snatching the pre-tied trash bags located next to the now-empty trash can.

"You missed something," he informs me, and I scan the kitchen to double-check if I overlooked anything. Even though my group and I aren't responsible for post-party cleanup, we're not exempt from helping out during the event.

"No, I didn't," I assert confidently after ensuring I've taken care of everything.

"Yes, you did."

"Okay, Sherlock. What did I forget?"

"Yourself," he smirks, and I roll my eyes before ushering him out through the back door.

As Alex heads toward the trash bins in the alley, I join the bustling living room just as Caleb pairs her phone with the speakers via Bluetooth. Besides our close-knit crew and their families, the Fayers have invited residents from both