His voice sounded normal, but Tara could tell he was a little annoyed.
"Oh," she said flatly, "I was just worried about you. Don't act like you've got it all together. You talk about a big game, but honestly, you're not that special."
"I—"
"What?"
Tara finally had the upper hand, smirking. "If you're so capable, why did it take you years to marry the girl you liked? And even after the wedding, you two haven't spent the night together."
She strutted off after that jab, not caring whether her son lost his temper.
Once she was out of sight, she slipped into the sunroom.
Tara pressed a hand to her chest and exhaled slowly. Dealing with a sharp-tongued son was exhausting.
But Dawn ...
A flicker of worry and helplessness crossed her eyes.
She hoped Dawn never found out certain things.
...
Ethan waited for Dawn in the living room for about 20 minutes. When he heard footsteps on the stairs, he put away his phone and looked up.
She wore a dress with a light blue gradient skirt and a white coat. She had no extra accessories. Her hair was braided to one side, making her look sharp and lively.
Dawn glanced at the time, then at him on the couch. "Let's go. I'm ready."
Ethan walked over, his gaze briefly tracing her clean, fair collarbone.
"Not cold?"
"I'm fine."
Dawn looked herself over. The wool coat was thick enough to keep her warm.
He said nothing else, just took her hand, and led her out.
At the car, Tara appeared again. Her face mask was gone, and her perfectly maintained face showed almost no signs of age. Her smile made her look like a graceful older sister.
"Dawn, be careful out there. Have fun."
Dawn waved, smiling. "Will do! See you!"
Once inside the car, Ethan's tone carried a hint of jealousy. "Feels like you're more my mom's daughter than mine."
Dawn grinned. "Well, of course. My best skill is getting along with the elders."
"No."


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