DEMI
The second the front door clicks shut behind Brad and my friends, my house falls into silence. I don't move immediately. My fingers remain curled around the doorknob, listening to the fading footsteps outside until they disappear completely.
Only then do I breathe. The smile I'd been forcing for the past several minutes dissolves as I turn around.
Uncle Marcel is on his feet, his hands clasped tightly together. His eyes fixed on me with an expression that tells me he knows I'm done accepting half-truths wrapped in good intentions.
He opens his mouth first.
"Demi..."
I lift one hand. "Don't."
I walk past him, stopping in the middle of the sitting room before turning to face him fully.
