~ Becca ~
I find out the Hale family has opinions about me the way most news arrive. Casually. Like it’s not supposed to hurt.
It’s a Sunday dinner. One of those polished, fake-warm events that smells like expensive food and old money. I didn’t even want to come, but Jace asked. No pressure.He Just said, “I’d like you there.” And that still does something to me.
So I’m there.
I’m wearing black. Simple. Nothing flashy. I’ve learned that with this family, looking effortless bothers them more than trying too hard. We sit at a long table that feels more like a boardroom than a place people are supposed to eat. Mrs. Hale smiles at me too brightly. Mr. Hale barely looks up from his plate. Evan’s on his phone like he wants to disappear into it.
Stephen isn’t there.
That’s intentional.
At f
