gone out in a while, just focused on studying. The food didn't tast

re Uncle Steve's conversations-at least then

idn't want to talk to them for more than two sentences

her times, I thought of Jenny and her new g

an," Eddie said as I left

hen I landed. We got hom

me. "Interesting beard," he added with a s

ng at home. Mom had baked

ber said, then quickly a

out school, a

d Adam are getting married in the spring, and the question is: will you come? Th

ink?" I asked flatly, tryi

ught it might mean more to you that way,"

his life. That's what makes

. I missed her wit. I hadn't heard from he

ngements," I said. "When's th

" Dad said dryly as

n suddenly shouted. Brad

the

g down, holding two p

m asked while helpi

nd scattered it in my room?" Amber

If you want it, you

mber said. Dad tried to respond, but she stepped up to me

ther, or we're done," she sa

ly, sitting down beside

muttered, rubbing my face.

asleep. Half-asleep, I could still h

on in my parents' room, and it was clear they

said, "our s

corrected gently. "After that wild night, I thought he'd hit

ve say?" Mom asked.

rial, pays attention, and hasn't gone off the rails.

se phone calls were w

ating himself. Johnny didn't even notice. He pretended to take notes, but Steve thinks he was just doodling." Dad chuckled again. "Apparently, he nodded off a few times during their sessions, and the next time, he couldn't remem

had no idea the old man had

ething," Mom said. "Maybe

he caused-and that would only make things worse. Brian asked everyone not to say a word.

Jenny started dating

be undone?" Mom

y's brilliant move, she's completely shut down. She hasn't shed a single tear since her father died." He paused, then added, "Still just as charming, but co

they met agai

shoulders," Dad said. "She's done mor

fix the damage?"

the consequences of his actions,"

room and quietly clos

t stop thinking about Jenny, trying to remember exactly what I'