The dining table was too small for everyone, so we'd pushed it against the wall and set up a buffet-style dinner instead. Bodies filled every corner of our living room—Mom and Alexander on the couch, Nate arguing with Maya about basketball in the corner, Riley perched on the arm of a chair looking almost comfortable.

"This chicken is actually edible," Maya announced, brandishing her fork. "Evie, did you make this?"

"Ryder made it. I supervised from a safe distance."

"Smart woman."

Riley ...