Page 37 of Twins for Three Bad Boys

He’s so controlled, as though he’s keeping everything locked down tight.

Maybe it’s for the best.

Maybe if he stays distant, things will stays simple.

I can survive simple.

Sandra drops by after dinner, kisses Evan’s cheek, checks in with Wayne, and then, surprisingly, turns to me.

“Did things go alright today, June?” she asks kindly.

I nod, throat tight. “Yes. Evan, he’s… he’s wonderful.”

Sandra smiles. “He is. And he likes you.”

My chest warms at the words, but fear flickers too—liking me has consequences sometimes.

I force a small laugh. “He’s very persuasive.”

Sandra’s eyes crinkle. “That’s Calder men for you.”

Wayne’s jaw tightens slightly at that, as if it hit too close to the bone.

Sandra ruffles Evan’s hair. “Come on, peanut. Sleepover tonight?”

Evan squeals. “Yes!”

Sandra looks at Wayne. “Same as we agreed? I’ll take him tonight. And Thursday too, if that still works.”

Wayne nods. “That works.”

She turns to me. “You’re off tonight then, June. Go do something for yourself.”

I blink. “Oh, I can help…”

She waves a hand. “You already helped. Go breathe somewhere that isn’t this house.”

Wayne glances at her sharply, but Sandra just gives him a look that says don’t you dare argue with me.

Evan hugs me unexpectedly before he leaves, arms tight around my waist.

“Bye, June,” he says into my sweater.

My throat tightens. “Bye, buddy. Have fun.”

He pulls back. “You’ll be here tomorrow?”

“Yes,” I say gently. “I’ll be here.”

Evan nods as if that’s the correct answer, then runs out the door with Sandra, already talking about pancakes.

The house goes quiet.

Too quiet.

And suddenly, it’s just Wayne and me.

Alone.