Chapter 104

Gary came into the kitchen, setting down a bag, pulling out a pack of garlic bread and a container with a chocolate dessert. “Do you know where your mom keeps the sheet pans?”

I shrugged, running my finger along the rim of my glass. “Guess is as good as mine.”

He smiled then rummaged through her drawers until he found one. 

My mother came back in a rush, but this time her robe was gone, and she was dressed in slacks and a button-up shirt. “Thanks for bringing the garlic bread.” She opened a cupboard and pulled out a plate then walked toward me, her eyes meeting mine. “Mack, you’re planning to stay and eat, right?”

Her eyes were big, almost pleading. 

I nodded. “Yeah, if I’m not intruding.”

“Not at all,” Gary said easily, leaning against the countertop. “The more the merrier. Bring a girl next time,” he winked.

My jaw clenched, knowing he was re