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Chad’s brow furrows and he shifts in his seat, clearing his throat “Okay”

I’d taken a few bites of salad, but the way Chad is acting now ht

I know I shouldn’t ask, but I can’t help randmother?”

Hiscrystal “Nan is from one of the oldest families in Charleston”

“Cool” I put lass

“It’s just someone I dated” Chad’s fork is on his plate as well, and one Now the

“Dated!” Evelyn picks up her wine glass and takes a sip “Why, she and Charles were engaged to be married before he left for Africa”

Oh Nodding, I put my hands in my lap Of course, he was The star quarterback, captain of the football teaine the blonde Barbie type in a St John suit and pearls holding his arm I bet she was perfect for him, too

“That’s nice” I don’t knohat else to say

Chad acts disinterested, but engaged? That’s kind of major “Tell her I hope she’s well”

“She’s not well She’s as confused as all of us are about what you’re doing here being a sheriff’s deputy” Evelyn takes another sip of wine “I’ll be glad when you get this nonsense out of your syste”

Poor Kyle ventures up to the table at thatelse?”

“Just the check, please” An edge is in Chad’s voice now

“What?” His mother cries “So soon?”

“I’m ready” I can’t look at him