Page 582 of End Game

I appreciate that more than I can say.

“They may.”

I nod. “Yeah.”

My phone buzzes again.

A cousin I barely talk to.

Abigail.

I almost don't open it.

I do.

Abigail

They sent a message to tell us to pray for you, but not to talk to you

Another message comes in right away.

Abigail

I don't really understand the poly thing and I know that's probably not what you want to hear right now.

Dex shifts beside me.

Another message comes.

Abigail

But you're still my cousin.

My breath catches.

Abigail

I can't fight Uncle Stephen and your dad and everybody for you. I wish I was brave enough to say I could. I'm sorry.

But I'm not blocking you. I'm not disappearing. If you need me, call.

I stare at the words until they blur.

One person.

One fucking person.

Out of all of them.

I sit down because my legs stop being useful.

Dex goes with me immediately, knee pressed against mine.

Cami sits on the other side.

Griffin and Ronan stay close.

My phone keeps buzzing.