The party died down earlier than Chase expected. The guests started to say goodbye shortly after Liam took off. Chase was grateful. He didn’t think he could handle much more small talk with his heart aching.
He hadn’t seen his mom in a bit and was glad she hadn’t yet come to him asking about his scaring Liam away. Chase’s parents had never known what he’d done to Liam all those years ago, and now feeling ashamed, Chase thought it was time he told them. He still believed he’d done the right thing, but the pain etched on Liam’s face when he’d taken off had Chase doubting it.
“Hey, Chase, why don’t you go inside and rest. Your mom and I will finish cleaning this up.”
“Thanks, Dad. The day’s starting to weigh on me a bit.” Chase took two bowls into the kitchen and placed them on the counter
