Chapter 319

There was a flicker of hope in his eyes. Daniel let out a long sigh. He reached out to ruffle Liam’s already messy hair. “Kid, puberty really did a number on you. Don’t keep butting heads with your brother all the time—he’s got a lot on his plate too.” “Whatever. Not like I care,” Liam muttered, brushing his hand away, then headed straight for the lake. Vincent’s brow was already furrowed, but now it looked even deeper. As the sun dipped low in the sky, Claire and Julian finally wrapped up their quiet back-and-forth. They’d each made concessions—one promised not to spill the beans, the other agreed to a heart-to-heart after dinner. By the time they returned to the outdoor table, dinner was already laid out in full; Isabella had just made it back and was calling everyone to eat. Claire slipped into a seat in front of some veggies. “Sit over here! There’s meat you like,” Isabella offered warmly, tugging her sleeve to move her. “Oh, it’s fine. I’m good here,” Claire declined firmly, settl