Page 260 of End Game

He's more himself.

The Dex I know is sparks flying in twelve directions at once.

This is what happens when every spark points the same way.

He becomes almost unnervingly focused.

Austin asks a question, and Dex doesn't answer immediately because he's still working the lyric under his breath.

They argue over one word for five full minutes.

Dex defends it.

Austin makes a better argument.

Dex changes it without ego.

Then Austin wants to change a different line.

Dex refuses. “It's cleaner my way.”

“It's safer your way.”

“Same thing.”

“No. Safe is boring.”

Dex looks at him. “That line isn't the place to prove you're edgy.”

Austin stares.

Megan covers her mouth—I think she's hiding a laugh.

Austin finally points at Dex. “I was the one who invited you here.”

“You did.”

“And now you're insulting my songwriting.”

“Constructively. And that’s why you brought me here.”

Austin throws up both hands. “Fine. Keep it.”

“Because I'm right?”

“Because you're fucking exhausting.”

“So yes.”

Austin laughs.

Even Dex's answering grin is different—smaller and satisfied.

Micah squeezes my hand.

I lean toward him. “He's really fucking good.”

Micah doesn't look away from Dex. “I know.”