Page 171 of Haze of Obedience

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"Guests first," Silvia says. We wash our hands, and she gives us plates.

"I won't argue." I step in front of Dirk and load my plate with tacos, beans, rice, and a few pieces of quesadillas.

Dirk does the same, and we sit down. While the others are getting food, he leans into me. "Your plate has as much food on it as mine does."

I glance at our plates then shrug. "I'm hungry. Are you worried I'll get fat?"

He sternly says, "No. I just don't believe you're going to get all that down."

"Watch me."

Everyone makes us feel welcome. Gloria sits next to me, and anytime my water is low, she refills it.

"You're spoiling me," I tell her.

She beams. "After dinner, I'll show you my room. Teresa and I share it, but we could make a tent—"

"Gloria, Zoe is not sleeping in your room," Silvia tells her.

"But mom—"

"No. Final decision."

Gloria pouts, and I lean down to her ear. "Do you like stories?"

"Yes."

"When it's time for bed, why don't I tell you a story?"

Her face lights up. "Okay!"

I put my arm around her and hug her then go back to eating my food.

"How long are you here?" David asks.

Dirk shakes his head. "I'm not sure. I hope that's okay?"

"You know you can stay as long as you want."

"Thanks."

"It's vital that no one discusses Zoe being here."

"We got it. But it's a good thing school is out. Gloria can't ever keep secrets," Bruno states.

"That's not true," she shrieks.

"Yes, it is."

"Is not!"

"Enough," David says. He turns to Bruno. "And stop teasing your sister."

"Just telling the truth."

"I said enough."

Gloria grabs my hand. "I won't tell anyone. But why can't I?"

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