From the conversations I’ve had with Cassidy, I’ve learned she’s close with her mother. She was the only child living at home when her father’s affair came to light. She was the largest shoulder and support system for Nancy. After hearing the stories, I imagined her family to be like a Jerry Springer drama, but all I’m getting is Brady Bunch vibes.

Except for Officer Pissed Off, of course.

“Everyone, have a seat.” Nancy throws her arm out toward the open chairs at the end of the table.

As I survey the table, I halt when my gaze meets Maliki’s. My throat constricts at the warning clouding his features. Just as I suspected, he’s suspicious of me hanging around with Cassidy. I’ve gained friendships with most of the guys in my brother’s circle, but since Maliki lives in a different town and owns his own bar, he doesn’t come around as frequently as the others. Meaning he hasn’t had as much time to realize I’m not a bad person.

Next to Maliki is Sierra, Cassidy’s older sister. Even though it hasn’t been brought up around her when I’ve been around, I wouldn’t doubt her knowing my story. But unlike her fiancé, her lips are curled into an inviting smile.

“Have a seat, guys,” Sierra says, pulling out the open chair next to her. “Mom made rib eye, roasted rosemary potatoes, and her famous sweet corn. I’m starving, and I will die if we don’t eat soon.”

My gaze darts up and down the table as everyone waits for us to take our seats. Cassidy squeezes into the seat next to Sierra. As I take the chair next to her, I quickly glance at the officer—Kyle. Chills speed down my spine, the dread of him interrogating me already causing my stomach to curl.

“I’m Rex,” the guy across from me says. “Sup, dude?”

Rex is sporting a black leather jacket and a cross necklace. From what Cassidy has said, he’s the cool brother.

A mousy, dark-haired girl shyly waves at me. “I’m Carolina, Rex’s better half.”

Next to Rex is Trey, a guy around the same age as Cassidy. From what Cass has told me, he’s the half brother no one knew about until recently. He says hello with a simple chin jerk in my direction.

Chloe, the woman who smacked Kyle, introduces herself before elbowing Kyle to do the same. “I’m Chloe, this guy’s—who’s actually nice, I promise—girlfriend.”

Kyle snorts.

“Quit acting like a little prick,” she hisses underneath her breath to him.

“Don’t,” he says before his dark scowl returns to me. “Kyle.”

At least he doesn’t introduce himself as Officer.

It’s annoying when people do that shit.