“Thanks for having me.” I tried to do better at turning on the charm, especially when we started passing the food around, but nothing seemed to clear away the awkward energy at the table. Jasper and I told April all about the ball, and all my people-watching paid off in the amount of detail I was able to recall. Meanwhile, Jasper shared the latest gossip from his friend group. But his parents stayed largely silent, and I could sense entire conversations happening with their eyes, almost certainly about me and my presence at the table.

His dad had a few polite questions about my job, but I tried to steer the topic back to the ball because I didn’t want to get into my current living situation. Luther and James were likely even bigger villains than me in this house, which was yet another reason why I needed that group-house interview next week to go well. How could I prove to anyone that I’d changed if I didn’t ditch the friend circle at the heart of so much of the past I regretted?

Finally, the eating part was done, and while the food truly had been delicious, I was already counting down to our departure. But then Jasper’s mom brought out a platter of cookies. “Who wants dessert?”

“Oatmeal raisin? I remember how awesome these always were,” I said as I passed the platter.

“I thought you might like them.” Jasper’s mom rubbed her eyes, like the dinner was every bit as exhausting for her as it was for me. But she’d remembered. And maybe that meant she wouldn’t hate me forever.

April took two cookies even as she groaned. “What I really want is a game. Please, guys?”

Jasper glanced my direction. I nodded because even if I were uncomfortable, no way could I say no to that face. “Sure. But we should help your mom with the dishes first.”

“You and I can handle that while April gets her cards.”

“Let Jasper shuffle for you,” their mom warned as April headed for the stairs. “Last thing you need is another paper cut from a card sleeve.”

“Mom. I’m fine. Seriously.” April put her hands on her slim hips. She was so delicate. I understood why the family was so protective of her, but I also could see how she chafed under all the concern. It reminded me of when I’d had to stay with my mom after the accident, how narrow the line was between caring and smothering.

“I just worry.” Jasper’s mom handed him her plate and fork as we cleared the table.

“You need that on a T-shirt.” Jasper kissed her on the top of her head. “Thanks for the food. It was great.”

“You and Milo can divide the leftovers. We’ve got enough stuff already in our freezer.”