Chapter 29
POV: Damian
I had one simple goal for the neighborhood barbecue.
Eat.
Smile politely.
Avoid becoming the main attraction.
By noon, I was already failing.
Smoke curled from three grills while folding tables overflowed with homemade dishes. Music drifted across the courtyard, children chased bubbles, and Walter wore an apron that proudly declared GRILL SERGEANT.
He had promoted himself.
Again.
"You're late," Walter said.
"I arrived exactly on time."
He checked an imaginary watch.
"That's late for hungry people."
Before I could answer, Leo shoved a pair of barbecue tongs into my hands.
"Congratulations."
"For what?"
"You're flipping burgers."
"I've never grilled before."
"Perfect."
"How is that perfect?"
"We love surprises."
That sentence should have worried m
