Chapter 6

Walter had reserved a private table at the restaurant, but no one had ordered food.

Graham sat on one side of him. His aunt and cousin sat on the other, surrounded by three printed guest lists, two seating plans, and a folder of allergy information.

The chair across from Graham had been left empty for me.

I placed the atlas beside my coat and sat down.

Graham spoke first.

“Mara is upset, so she’s making temporary decisions look permanent.”

“I signed a three-month lease,” I said. “There is nothing temporary about where I’m sleeping.”

Walter held up one hand.

“I…