Chapter 53

“That’s terrific,” Seb said, adding a smile to show he meant it, at least a little bit. “But how’d you find that out?”

“Pap. Long story. But it was his idea. He said he wanted me to be happy. This was the best way he knew how.”

Seb’s respect for Mr. Beckerman rose a thousandfold. As afraid as he was for a trusting Levi getting thrust into a world that wouldn’t appreciate his differences, he had to admit this was the best way for him to venture out. With the support of his family on this end, the haven of family on the other.

“And you were nervous about facing him,” Seb chided softly.

Levi rolled onto his side, a mimicry of everything Seb had fantasized before letting his better sense win. The golden dust scattered, dissipating into nothing as he rested his head on his upper arm. “I should’ve listened to him more. I know that now.”

“If you’d done that, we never would’ve met. It’s been a hell of a week, but I would’ve hoped that was the one part of it you wouldn’t regret.”