Page 535 of End Game

Still hurts.

I pull my hand free from Griffin long enough to wipe beneath my eye. “Maybe we will.”

Mom looks hopeful for half a second.

I continue.

“Maybe one day we'll all wake up and realize we want separate houses and golden retrievers and monogamous Costco memberships.”

Clay laughs.

I can't help smiling through the ache.

“But don't build your relationship with me around waiting for my life to become more comfortable for you.”

Her hope disappears.

Good.

I would rather disappoint her honestly.

Dad looks between us. “Why now?”

That question is easier.

And harder.

I inhale. “Because I was in the ICU three weeks ago.”

Mom's entire face drains of color. “What?”

Dad sits forward.

Clay goes still beside us.

Griffin breathes deeply.

I keep my eyes on my parents. “I had a UTI. My pump site failed while I was sleeping. I went into DKA.”

Mom is already standing. “What do you mean you were in the ICU?”

“Mom—”

“You were in the hospital, and nobody called us?”

Her gaze whips to Clay. “Did you know?”

“Yes.”

“And you didn't tell us?”

“Cami asked me not to.”

“You could have died.”

“I know.”

The words stop her.