Chapter 19

“I wouldn’t thank me. I’m just doing as told,” Rene says sourly.

“It’s still appreciated.” Evan really can’t picture Rene doing what he’s told to do.

Rene shrugs. “My stepfather is the head of the elders, the leaders of this town. He asks for something, you do it.”

“That would piss me off. Do you get along well with him?” Evan knows a lot of people don’t get along with their step-parents.

“Better than I used to. He’s not easy to get on with, but he’s good to my mother, which is what matters. I bet your parents are proud of you, being a doctor and all,” Rene says, coming back to the table.

“I haven’t spoken to them since I was still in medical school, so I wouldn’t know.” Evan tries not to let the pain show on his face or in his voice. He refuses to lie about his family, but he’s not ready to be vulnerable with Rene watching. He’s not sure he ever will be. He doesn’t want to show someone who hates him just for being human that he has a weak spot.