Chapter 18: Yes, Mother
“I believe you,” Oliver says at last.
Alastair looks up to find him crying too, but there’s a familiar light to Oliver’s face that Alastair had feared his parents had stamped out of him. Hope has returned to Oliver’s eyes and Alastair cannot help but catch it like a cold. He feels warmer, thanks to their combined hands, and his tears subside enough for him to offer Oliver a watery smile.
“Your sister is going to kill me,” Alastair chuckles miserably. At that Oliver winces, but smiles.
“I’ll protect you,” Oliver replies with a mockery of heroic confidence. Alastair laughs and Oliver kisses the back of his hand.
“Come on, I’ll make you something to drink,” Oliver insists, exiting the car before Alastair can object. He rushes to open his own door and step out so Oliver can hear him and his concerns.
“Is that a good idea? I mean, are you sure?” Alastair presses, using his sleeve to sop up his embarrassing tears.