Page 179 of Death is Familiar

Todd rubbed his temples.

“I’m not fragile, Jack. I’m not going to break.”

“I know you aren’t. But you have more to think about now. More to risk.”

I was too tired to fight. I needed to save my energy for where it was needed, and right now, I was in the driver’s seat. Literally.

With some convincing, I ended up behind the wheel of Todd’s car, with a tired Todd reclined in the passenger seat fighting to keep his eyes open. Jack wanted the three of us to drive together, but I persuaded him to drive back with Fawzy. I needed time to reflect on the evening before atoning for my actions.

Besides, it’s not like I was going to do anything reckless with Todd in the car.

That’s what I sold him on, anyway.

“Look, we’re all tired, we’ll talk about this more at my place. Okay? It can be your home for as long as you need. Until we find you somewhere you’ll be safe, and comfortable. Whatever you want.”

I dropped my head against the headrest. “What I want is to go to home, my home, and sleep in my bed, but I’m not being given the option.”

“I’m not doing this to punish you, Delilah. This is an offer. For us to figure out everything. Together. Because whether you like it or not, right now, your⁠—”

“Passenger.”

“—passenger has two very overprotective fathers. And you, Delilah, have the two of us. And even though Todd is asleep right now⁠—”

“I’m awake.”

“—I know he didn’t tell Rochan he was the father on a whim⁠—”

“I didn’t.”

“—which means for better or worse, you’re stuck with us.”

“I appreciate what you are trying to say, Jack.” I rubbed at my eyes. “But we’ve got a four-hour drive ahead of us. Can we pick this up later?”

“Promise?”

“Promise.”

Jack shifted, further lowering himself into the window. “Why do I get the feeling you’re up to something?”

“It’s like three in the morning. Todd just had a seizure⁠—”

“I’m fine.”

“—and took the fall for this.” I gestured at my stomach. “What is it you think I’m going to do?”

“You managed to keep your fair share of secrets from us, Delilah. So, why don’t you tell me?”

Jack hooked his gaze on mine.

Not to be outdone, I squared my shoulders, and stared right back, allowing my attention to drift now and then to areas of interest.

Like Jack’s warm brown eyes.

Or the discoloration beneath.

The rare freckle dotting his skin.

The bruise on his cheek.