The smile I paste onto my face is wide and bright—convincing too, I hope. But my dad’s expression gives him away. He knows. He knows this was a terrible idea. His apologetic look lingers as Dave stands there, his hands stuffed in his pockets, his head slightly tilted like he’s waiting for some grand reunion.
And because I know Dad regrets his decision but can do nothing to change it, I do what I should.
“Dave,” I say, the name heavier in my mouth than I’d expected. “Come on in.”
“Thanks.” His voice is smooth, but there’s a flicker of hesitation in his eyes. Maybe he knows this is weird, too.
There are too many questions running in my mind right now but they can all wait.
As he steps past me, his gaze drifts over me for a beat too long. “You look beautiful, Evie.”
My smile falters j
