Page 529 of End Game

This time differently.

Not suspicion exactly.

Recalculation.

Mom presses her fingers to her lips. “So you got married for health insurance.”

“Yes.”

“Cameron.”

“I know how it sounds.”

“It sounds insane.”

Clay makes a small choking sound. “It was actually legally and financially very sensible.”

Mom turns on him. “You knew?”

He doesn't dodge. “Yes.”

“For how long?”

“Long enough.”

“And you didn't think we deserved to know?”

Clay looks at me before he answers. “My sister's marriage wasn't my news to share.”

Something warm moves through my chest.

Mom’s mouth tightens. “You two have always done this.”

“Done what?” I ask.

“Closed ranks.”

Clay's posture doesn't change. “Usually for a reason.”

“Clay.”

He lifts both hands. “I'm not here to fight with you.” His eyes flick toward me. “I'm here for her.”

No speech.

No defense of my choices.

Just a line in the sand.

Mom looks hurt.

I hate that it hurts me too.

Dad rubs one hand over his knee. “You said the relationship came after the marriage.”

“Yes.”

“And you're happy?”