CHAPTER 43: Milkshakes & Moonlight

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Chapter 43: Milkshakes & Moonlight

Calvin

He slid into the booth beside Marcus, nodding at Ezra, who was already halfway through a plate of fries. Lina sat across, sipping a pink milkshake. And next to her—Daisy.

She wore a hoodie, curls tucked back, no makeup. Beautiful, without trying.

He smiled at her. She didn't smile back, but her foot nudged his under the table.

He didn't need more than that.

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Daisy

Laughter bubbled around her—Ezra teasing Lina, Marcus quoting some ridiculous movie. For once, she didn't feel like she had to perform intelligence or strength.

She just got to be.

Calvin leaned closer, murmuring, "This feels nice."

She glanced sideways at him. "It does."

"You okay?"

She nodded. "I think so."

A quiet beat passed.

Then she added, "Thanks for earlier. Just… standing by me."

He looked at her like that was the easiest thing in the world. "Always."

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Ezra

He watched his sister from across the booth. For the first time in a long time, her shoulders looked relaxed.

And maybe—just maybe—she was starting to believe she deserved this kind of softness.

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