That was how scared she’d been. As usual, Junie wasn’t home. She’d spent the night with a guy who was definitely the one. Left a note on the fridge that had no food in it. Leanne had dug in the couch for quarters, bundled up her clothes, and dragged them all the way to the laundry building, about a block away inside the crummy apartment complex they’d lived in at the time. She’d learned a long time ago that it was a bad idea to rely on other people, even if they were supposed to be there for you. In theory anyway.

Her husband rounded the table and wrapped his arms around her, giving her a gentle hug from behind. “You were terrified, and you’re still nervous. I get it. I won’t push you to pet Doris or anything, but she’s a sweet dog. She’ll be there when you’re ready.”

Before she could reply, Titus came out of the kitchen with a big smile. “Who’s up for some Spirit Island?”

***

Trev had never seen this game before or heard anything about it from Titus.

That meant his friend had bought it special for this occasion. And it was fun, not just a board game. It also had cards and lots of backstory. While he still preferred video games, it was hard to find one that made sense for four players, and the physical logistics would be tough too. This allowed everyone to participate, gathered around the table to learn all the rules, and Leanne seemed to enjoy it as well.

Before things kicked off, Trev got up, ostensibly to help Titus make coffee, but as soon as they reached the kitchen, he said, “Look at you. How long did you hunt for the perfect game?”

“Not long,” Titus said defensively. “Just a simple online search. And the reviews were glowing, it’s supposed to be—”

“Thanks for making the effort,” Trev cut in.

“I just wanted us to have fun. I can’t believe you’re married!” Titus hugged him around the shoulder, his smile so wide, it looked like it might crack his face. “You owe me since I’ve decided to be the bigger man and get over being left out of the loop.”

“Leanne only told Vanessa and Margie,” he pointed out. “So does this mean we don’t need to have the serious heart-to-heart you mentioned before?”

Titus sighed softly. “I just want to be sure you know that I don’t call you only because it’s convenient. We’ve been friends since high school. You were the first person who spoke to me after I transferred, and you were popular, dude. Everyone liked you—have you forgotten that?”