“It’s just some pictures,” I said lightly, my tone almost teasing. “And a few old gifts. We can always take new ones later… if you want, you can even give me new gifts in the future.”
They blinked at me, surprised, and I tilted my head toward them. “It’s been a long time since we’ve gone on a proper trip, hasn’t it? Now we finally have a reason to make new memories.”
Ryan latched onto the idea immediately, his eyes softening as he stepped closer. “You’re right,” he said, his voice steady now. “We should plan something. A trip… somewhere far.”
Warren’s shoulders dropped as if he’d been holding his breath. “Yeah,” he said quickly. “That’s a good idea. A break from the usual. And this time…” He hesitated just a beat before adding, “…we should bring Trisha along. You know she’s never been able to vacation like that before. Not after what happened to her family.”
For a moment, my breath hitched in my chest.
I let out a faint laugh — bitter and sharp — though they couldn’t hear the thorns in it.
And they mistook it for agreement.
Both of them visibly relaxed, as though my little smile and that hollow laugh meant I’d forgiven them.
I didn’t correct them.