Page 128 of The Wayward Son

When Ember got up to help Jake, Sage leaned in close to Sawyer. “What’s up with you and Jade today?”

“Why? What’d she say?”

“Nothing. Except that you’re mad at her.”

He shook his head. “It’s more like she’s pissed at me. But yeah, I’m slightly perturbed.”

“Slightly?”

“After spending some time in the gym and taking a run with Dad, I’ve calmed down.”

“What are you fighting about?” She reached for Esty’s hand and Sawyer didn’t move away from her this time.

“We’re not fighting. We’re…disagreeing.”

She glanced at him. “What are you disagreeing about?”

“I can’t talk about it.”

“Sawyer!”

“That’s what we’re disagreeing about. The fact that I can’t talk about it.”

Sage shook her head. “I’m confused.”

“Join the club.”

The baby stayed asleep while they all ate, but when Sawyer felt a bit of a warm sensation on his stomach, he looked at Ember.

“I think she just peed on me.”

Ember laughed. “I’m sorry. Let me take her.”

Jake picked up Sawyer’s empty plate. “You have been officially anointed, son.”

“Great.” He stood and scowled at the wet spot on his t-shirt. “I need to go change.”

He headed for the door and Sage got up and followed him. He glanced at her.

“What are you doing?”

“I’m coming to help.”

“You’re going to help me change my shirt?”

“No. That’s not what I meant. I’m just coming with you.”

Sawyer continued through the door without further comment and crossed the yard to the barn. Sage kept up with him, then followed him through the barn and up the stairs. As he went through the door, Sawyer pulled his t-shirt over his head, then went to the bathroom. He washed his hands, and the spot on his stomach, then came out of the bathroom.

Sage was shaking her head. “It looks like a tornado went through here.”

He looked around. “It’s just that the bed didn’t get made, and there are a few clothes on the ground.” He started picking up the clothes he’d taken off in a hurry last night.

“Get dressed and I’ll help you make the bed.”

“I don’t need help making the bed.”

“I know you don’t. But it’s easier with two people.”

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