Chapter 40: Liam

"Hi, Dad," I greet. The front door slams behind me as I step into the living room. Even though it's the beginning of April, the weather is still frigid. My father doesn't keep the thermostat set any higher than sixty-four degrees to keep the energy bill down.

Every little bit helps.

The corners of his mouth curl up as his gaze settles on me. "Hey, I didn't know you were dropping by today."

"I had some time and thought I'd see how everyone's doing." I settle on the couch and run a hand over my hair. The top has grown out, but I still have it shaved close on the sides.

Concern flickers in his eyes. "Anything going on that I need to know about?" My dad is always waiting for the other shoe to drop. Can't say that I don't feel the same way most of the time. I don't think I've ever sat back and taken a breath.

I open my mouth to put him at ease when my brother stalks out of the kitchen. As soon as he sees me, he halts in his tracks. His lips flatten into a thin line as he pulls o