the kitchen, making coffe

, too early

anding there, holding a bag from a

rought some peace offerings. Jess was such a lifes

e, wrapped in my silk

rise!" she cooed, h

boss." He stepped inside, his eyes flicking around our

ht, but with an edge I didn't like. He handed Jess

d. "You r

was trying to provoke

ice, or care. She was l

a few people over to his new place tonight

I said, my

lips. "Oh, come on, Mike. Loosen up. It' ll be fun.

d I'm

Mike, don't be rude.

ng straight at Ethan. "Or

an before. "Just trying to be friendly, man. We' re practical

Family? I do

masked it, turning to Jess with a wounded look. "

ing hand on his arm. "Don't listen to him,

an an apology, Mike. He came all this way to

ize? T

the way she defended him withou

round Jess' s shoulders. "It' s okay, Jess. I get it. No har

ooth again. "I should get going. Big

she said, smil

, a quick, whispered conve

her arms crossed. "I c

y, leaving me

. Just a vast,

as made. The p

Dr. Hayes to confirm I'd sig

ta recovery specia