Sebastian exchanges a glance with Dad.
He steps closer and removes Wyatt's cowboy hat.
Wyatt turns his face toward the wall, full of shame.
Dad lowers his voice even further. "Look at me, son."
Wyatt's chest fills with air. He slowly lifts his chin and stares into my father's eyes.
"Why were you there?" he questions.
Wyatt answers, "I went to get the rest of my stuff."
Dad asks, "Why didn't you take anyone with you?"
Guilt, self-loathing, and disgrace take over Wyatt's features. His jaw tics, and he clears his throat. "I'm eighteen next week, sir."
"Yes, we're all aware. What does that have to do with this?" Dad inquires.
Humiliation blooms over Wyatt's cheeks. He takes three short breaths, then stands taller. "I'm a man now. I should be able to handle my own affairs without involving others."
The air stretches tight until it's about to snap, with Dad keeping his gaze pinned on Wyatt's.
Dad finally says, "I see."
More silence coils in the hallway.
"I'm fine. Please forget about this," Wyatt implores.
"Like hell I will. Sebastian, grab the shotguns," Dad instructs.
"What? Dad, you can't kill him! You'll go to jail," I shriek.
He turns to look at me. "Why are you lurking in the background?"
Jagger steps inside, booming, "What's going on?"
Sebastian answers, "Come get the shotguns with me."
Jagger furrows his forehead in confusion, then turns and freezes when he catches sight of Wyatt. He stares at his friend, his anger growing hotter. He mutters, "I told you to wait for me."
Wyatt grinds his molars, focusing on the floor.
"Jagger. Now," Sebastian demands.
Jagger tears his gaze off Wyatt and follows Sebastian outside.
Wyatt starts, "Jacob?—"
"What's the commotion out here?" Mom cries out, opening the door that leads into the kitchen and then stopping in her tracks. She gasps, "Oh my Lord! Wyatt!"
"I'm fine, ma'am," Wyatt insists, with a fresh load of shame.
"You aren't! Come into the kitchen so I can help clean you up. Willow, grab the first aid kit," she instructs.
"Ruby, not now," Dad interjects.
Mom glances up at him and puts her hand on her hip. "He needs medical attention."
