Dinner went off without a hitch. Every last piece of pizza was inhaled, and the sundae bar left the kitchen a disaster. The girls seemed to bounce right back, but Will was still quiet—not sulky but thoughtful. He excused himself to head to his room early, and before long, Ava and Mia were in bed. But Kenna stayed to help me pick up.

She handed me a bowl to place in the dishwasher. “You okay?”

I sighed, slipping the dish in place. “I’m fine. I just thought everyone would be as excited as I am.” And I could admit that it stung a little that they weren’t.

“Sorry. I’m happy for you, really.”

I straightened, meeting Kenna’s gaze head-on. “Are you, though?”

Kenna pressed her lips into a hard line. “I am…”

“But?” I knew Kenna was holding something back. Somehow, from the beginning, I’d found myself as the baby of our little trio. Maybe because I was a few months younger, or because I was smaller, or because I had a more sensitive nature. Bell and Kenna had always been extra protective of me—almost mothering. But I didn’t need that. I needed my friends to stand beside me.

Kenna picked up a towel and began meticulously drying her hands. “Wounded bird catnip,” she muttered.

“I’m not going after Griffin. But what’s the worst thing that would happen if I did? Griffin not returning my feelings? Newsflash, Kenna, I’ve had my heart broken before. In more ways than I can count. It wouldn’t be the first time, and it won’t be the last. But I don’t hide away from life because there’s a potential to be hurt.”

Kenna took a step back as if I had struck her. I muttered a curse under my breath. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that.”

She held up a hand. “No. You’re right. I hid from a lot in life for a long time.”

“But you don’t anymore.” My friend had been through so much, but she was finally, truly letting people in. “And I’m so proud of you for that. I shouldn’t have said it. Low blow.”

Kenna pulled me into a tight hug. “Forgiven.”

“Thank you,” I whispered into her ear. “Love you big.”

“Love you bigger.” She paused for a moment, holding the embrace. “And that’s why I always want to protect you. But I’m guessing it can feel a little stifling.”

I chuckled. “Maybe just a little.”

Kenna released me but kept hold of my shoulders. “How about I let you live your life and just support you along the way?”

I squeezed her arms. “You already do.”

And I would be forever grateful for the support of these friends who were more like sisters.

7

Griffin

“S-s-so cold, Griffin.”