Christa sits stiffly in the chair closest to the desk, Jadon standing protectively at her side. Jace hovers a few steps away, trying not to stare at Christa but failing miserably. Every time their eyes meet, he looks like he’s been struck by lightning.

Evan notices. Of course he notices. He rubs a hand over his jaw, trying to keep the situation from spiraling. “Alright,” Evan says quietly. “Let’s take a breath. We’ll talk this through.”

Jadon glances at him, and for a moment their ...