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“More times than not, your parents are good people,” I argue.
He narrows his gaze. “The jury is still deliberating on that.”
“Thank you for helping.”
“Don’t thank me, just keep calling, texting, and being the same Piper you’ve been with us, okay? I’ve missed our chats.”
I look at my shoes, ashamed of my behavior. “Sorry for not responding.”
“I get it. I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around his—”
“Disappearance,” I say before he uses the otherd-word.
“Sure, let’s go with that.”
There’s a knock on the door. Whoever is behind it doesn’t wait for King to respond.
I’m surprised to see Donovan St. James. His gray eyes illuminate when they see me. “I heard Piper was here.”
I lift my hand and wiggle my fingers. “Hi, Mr. St. James.”
He saunters toward me and hugs me. “Sweetheart, I’m so sorry for your loss. How are you doing?”
“Taking it one breath at a time.”
“That’s all we can do. Are you going to therapy or a grief counselor?”
“I…” I forgot he’s all business and has zero feelings.
“Please do it. If you need, I’ll cover the cost.”
I step away from his embrace and look at him. “Are you doing counseling?”
“If you mean drinking himself stupid and sleeping with college girls, sure, he’s dealing.” King grins as if he hadn’t just called him out.
“Kingston,” Donovan chides him.
“Dad, you have to stop.”
“I’m mourning the loss of my son.”
I pat his hand. “Archer wouldn’t be happy to hear that you’re not getting the right help. What are you going to do when he’s back?”
He stares at me for a second. “Do you really think he’s alive?”
“Yes, and I’m sure he’s going to be upset if he sees that we’ve been moping.” It’s hard to sound like the old Piper, full of hope, but I’m trying my best. “Please, take care of yourself.”
“I’ll try.” He gives me a sad smile.
“Please do.”
He nods and begins to walk toward the door. “Stay in touch, Piper. You’re a St. James.”
“I will.”
When the door closes, King says, “I don’t know if it was smart to give him hope.”
“Archer needs us to have faith in him. I swear, one day, he’ll walk through that door, then you’ll think of me and this moment.”
