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“Yeah?”

“You and I are going to revisit this conversation after dinner.”

“Looking forward to it, sir.”

“Don’t you sir me, you little punk, and no, you're not looking forward to it.”

“No, sir.”

Megan laughed. Even Declan smiled.

I tried not to look at him. It was useless. I stole a glance.

He was looking at me. The smile disappeared from both of our faces at the same time.

I couldn't breathe for a second.

Then Megan touched his arm. Declan turned to her.

I pushed my plate away.

“Full?” Clayton asked.

“Yeah.”

“You barely ate.”

“I'm not that hungry.”

He studied me.

I could feel Sadie doing the same thing from my other side.

After dinner, everybody scattered.

The boys started clearing plates because Marion had a rule that anyone who didn't cook cleaned.

Ben carried the serving dishes into the kitchen and helped put the leftovers away. Then Dad handed him a coffee and steered him into the living room, with Riot following.

I considered going for my run. God knew I could use one tonight. A few miles and enough sweat could quiet most things in my head.

Megan followed Declan outside.

I watched them through the kitchen window. I didn't mean to.

I never meant to.

She said something. He leaned down to hear her.

She put her hands on his chest.

I turned away.

“Stop,” said Sadie as she stacked plates beside me.

I looked at her. “Stop what?”

“You know what.”