CHAPTER 27: Stop Pretending

  Ezra’s Point Of View.

  THE SEVEN bad boys decided to sleep over at our place for the night. They fit themselves in the other room while Kiana and I were also together in the same room.

  We played a board game and enjoyed a no-phones-allowed conversation until midnight. I had great fun, especially because they are here with me.

  I stared at the sky as the night got deeper and I’ve come to realize, although I’m not fortunate in terms of family, I’m blessed to have friends.

  When things fell apart, it was them, who was there for me. They lifted me up when I was so down and even when I didn’t ask for help, they would lend a hand because that’s what friends are for.

  ***

  WHEN we got up the next morning, we immediately prepared a lunch meal for the boys. We cooked a classic beef stew and grilled pork tenderloin with pineapple salsa and the chocolate chip baked-cookies for dessert.