It’s a long morning, but at least I have books to keep me occupied and distract me from my empty stomach. Unfortunately, that only works for so long—by the time the clock is closing in on noon, I’m almost weak with hunger. It’s enough to distract me, so I can’t even enjoy reading. Maybe I’ll get lucky, and they won’t be home.

Since when does my luck work that way? My heart sinks at the sound of their voices in the kitchen, along with their father’s. Anybody who didn’t know any better would think they were listening to a happy family, laughing and joking. I doubt anybody could imagine how bad things really are.

It’s either face them or starve. When I look at it that way, there’s no choice. I wander into the kitchen, careful to make it seem like there’s nothing wrong while I grab an apple from a bowl on the counter. The first bite is heaven, crisp and sweet. It’s a shame my gaze drifts over to my so-called family, and my eyes briefly meet Colt’s. Now there’s a sour taste in my mouth.

“Leni.” James smiles broadly when he turns to find me. “I was beginning to think you didn’t feel well. Is everything all right?”

I feel Nix’s eyes boring holes into me. I’m not going to give him away, but I might let him worry for a moment. That’s why I take my time before answering. “Sure, I’m fine. Just a little tired.” The smug look on both brothers’ faces makes me want to claw their eyes out. They think they’re so superior like they have me under their thumbs. Not that they don’t, but I hate how sure they are of it.

“And what are your plans today?”

It’s different, having someone in the house who seems to genuinely care what I do with my time. I almost don’t know how to handle it. “I’m not sure. I guess since the job interview at the pizza parlor didn’t work out, I’ll have to apply for some more jobs. I’m sure there must be something.”

Colt passes on his way to the refrigerator and brushes against me like it’s an accident—when I know it’s anything but. “I can think of at least one thing you could do to make some money.” He mutters it so low his father can’t hear. A very perverse part of me wants to turn around and ask him to repeat himself. Why would I even think something like that? It would only end up getting me hurt.

“You know, it seems silly to have you running around town, applying for jobs in these piddly little businesses.” James purses his lips thoughtfully. “Do you think you could handle some light clerical work?”