Chapter 3

That weekend was our monthly dinner with the Bellamys.

It also happened to be my birthday.

When I got home, Audrey's mother, Diane Bellamy, was chatting with Mom about Miles.

"Miles is such a lovable kid. So lively, and he always knows just what to say."

Mom laughed and waved her off.

"Audrey's wonderful too. So generous and sensible.

"Those three grew up together, so how did Audrey end up falling for Gavin?"

Diane sighed, sounding genuinely regretful.

Then she consoled herself. "Well, Gavin's not bad. At least he's careful with money."

Careful with money.

That was the only good thing anyone could say about me.

Before long, I heard voices at the door.

Miles came in with his arm around Audrey's shoulders.

The moment he walked in, he gave Diane a big hug.

"Diane, I missed you!"

Everyone laughed. The mood was almost too perfect.

I stood off to the side in a daze. They really did look like a family.

Only I looked like some unimportant, extra decoration.

Well, not quite. Every time I transferred money to Mom, I did get a smile out of her.

The doorbell rang suddenly, and I went to answer it.

"Hi, delivery for Ms. Bellamy."

It was a huge bouquet of balloon flowers. Even the wrapping looked exquisite.

I struggled to take it in my arms, and my heart couldn't help softening a little. It was the first time Audrey had ever sent me flowers.

But I'd barely turned around when my arms suddenly went light.

Audrey took the bouquet and walked over to Miles.

"Miles, happy housewarming."

Miles looked thrilled.

I slowly lowered my hands, which had frozen in midair, and called her name.

"Audrey."

When she turned around, her smile faded a little.

"What?"

"You bought him flowers?"

She looked confused, as if she didn't understand why I'd even ask.

"Don't you hate stuff like this?"

Then something seemed to occur to her, and she got impatient.

"Why do you keep comparing yourself to Miles lately? Isn't that embarrassing?"

With that, she ignored me and walked back over, smiling again.

I let out a bitter laugh. Gavin, what are you still hoping for?

After dinner, once Diane had left, Dad proudly pulled out a car key, grinning like a kid with a prize.

"Your mom and I have a present too!

"You've got a long commute. This car will make things easier."

The blood in my veins seemed to freeze.

So this was what Mom meant when she said the house was expensive to run and she needed my help.

To squeeze out that five thousand every month, I budgeted every single day. I only replaced my clothes after they'd pilled and torn and been mended over and over.

I'd even hesitate forever over a three-dollar coffee.

Every time my coworkers talked about a new movie or invited me out to eat, I pretended I was busy with work.

I'd thought my parents were really struggling.

But right now, Miles was beaming as he took the car key. Then he looked at Mom with concern.

"Mom, with you buying me a car, won't money be tight around here?"

Mom patted the back of his hand.

"It's fine. We still have your brother."

She said it so casually, but it made my ears ring.

As if every hole in this family was mine to fill.

Mom looked at me, as though it was only natural.

"Oh, right, Gavin. You still haven't given me this month's money. Remember to send it today."

The chatter and laughter went on. I looked at the designer clothes Miles was wearing, the fancy belt, the car key in his hand, and the sight of them stung more and more.

I swallowed the bitterness in my throat and said calmly, "From now on, I'm not sending any more money."