Page 564 of End Game

I don't usually interrupt him.

He probably thinks that's because he expects to be listened to.

Mostly, I learned a long time ago that conversations end faster if I let him finish.

Tonight isn't about speed.

“I'm also in a polyamorous relationship.”

Neither of them reacts immediately.

I'm not sure they understand the word.

Dad's brow furrows. “What does that mean?”

“There are five of us living together as a family.”

Mom blinks. “Five?”

“Yes.” I keep my voice even. “I'm romantically involved with three of them.”

Her face pales.

“One is a man named Dex. He's my partner. Another is Ronan. He's also a man, and we're together.”

Dad's fingers tighten around the arm of his chair.

“The third is Cami. She's a woman. She's married to Griffin.”

Mom looks briefly relieved.

It disappears when I continue.

“She's also my partner. Griffin lives with us. He and I aren't romantically or sexually involved, but he's part of my family too.”

Dad stares at me.

I give them another second.

“All five of us know. Everyone consents. Nobody is cheating on anybody. The relationships between us aren't all identical, but this is committed. It isn't casual.”

Mom opens her mouth.

Nothing comes out.

“I love them.”

Dad looks at the floor.

Mom whispers, “The men too?”

“Yes.”

She presses one hand to her mouth.

I know that gesture.

She used to do the same thing when she cried in church.