Tricia folded her arms tightly across her chest, her brows furrowed in burning frustration as she stood facing Donald. The courtyard air suddenly felt heavier, more suffocating with tension than it had been just moments ago.

Donald stood still. He stared at us, at me, then back at her. His jaw clenched, his eyes hardened, and he let out a sharp exhale before speaking.

"I have nothing to say to you," he said coldly.

"What? Did you hear that? My goodness!" Tricia turned to me in disbelief, her ...