Chapter 53

And I knew why.

In the bathroom, Justin livened up, chatting a little, and after I was sure he would be okay, I stepped out to give him privacy. Lei was sitting on the couch, pretending to be interested in a film magazine. I watched his face. His hands. He wasn’t well. I sat by him and picked up his cold fingers. “He’s staying the night. My brother had a date.”

Lei nodded, still staring down at the magazine open on the table.

“I’ll understand if you want to go,” I said, closing the magazine. “We could spend the afternoon together tomorrow, after Just leaves.”

The toilet flushed and Justin came running out. “Done,” he said, happily. Then he frowned and stared at Lei.

“This is my friend,” I quickly said. “Lei.”