The vibe in the private room was like a ticking time bomb, so tense that you could cut it with a knife.

Colin, looking all awkward and uncomfortable, tightened his fists. There was embarrassment, discomfort, and a big old serving of humiliation on his face.

After a long, awkward pause, he finally cleared his throat and said, "Listen, I'm not handing over my house to your brother, and I sure as heck ain't buying a new one. If that's a deal-breaker for you, then let's forget this ...