“Rhodes,” Logan says, voice steady.
“Brooks,” I shoot back on reflex.
Cameron sets plates on the table. “All right. Everyone sit. Pops, don’t try to carry anything.”
Pops lifts his mug as if to prove a point. “I’m still capable.”
Logan moves first, pulling out a chair for Pops like it’s instinct. Pops gives him a look that’s half grateful, half annoyed.
“I’m not helpless,” Pops mutters.
Logan’s mouth twitches. “Didn’t say you were. Just figured you’d prefer not to faceplant into guac.”
Pops huffs a laugh, rough around the edges.
My throat tightens at the way Logan got that laugh without trying too hard.
We eat.
And for a stretch of time, it’s almost okay.
Cameron talks about his practice, about some freshman who thinks he’s God’s gift to basketball and keeps getting blocked into next week. Pops makes a snide comment about footwork. Cameron argues. Pops smiles like the banter is medicine for his soul and exactly what the doctor ordered.
Logan doesn’t talk much, but when he does, it’s quick, sliding into the family rhythm like he never left.
And maybe that’s what makes my chest ache.
Because Logan has always fit here, even when I tried to pretend he didn’t.
Halfway through dinner, Cameron’s phone buzzes.
He checks it and tries to hide the grin. Fails.
I narrow my eyes. “Who’s that?”
Cameron’s grin turns innocent. “Just one of my buddies.”
“A buddy,” I deadpan.
“You have a buddy with a heart emoji next to his name?” Pops lifts a brow.
Cameron chokes on his drink. “It’s—shut up.”
Logan’s mouth twitches. “Your buddy’s name is…Hannah?”
Cameron glares. “Don’t read my phone.”
“Don’t hold it at face level in front of everyone,” I shoot back, trying, and failing, not to laugh.
Cameron stands quickly, grabbing his keys like they’re a shield. “I’m going out for a bit.”
“To see yourbuddy,” Pops says, amused.
Cameron mutters, “I hate this family.” But his grin gives him away. He looks at Pops, voice softening. “Text me if you need me.”
Pops waves him off. “Go. Be young, but wrap it before you tap it.”
“Jesus fucking Christ, Dad.” Cameron bolts out the door as we all burst into laughter.
