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“How often do you have to do this again?” I glance toward Matt as he drives us toward his house.

“Once a month. My parents agreed to it. It’s meant to create a united front for the family.”

I scoff at his words.

“Right?” He shakes his head. “I don’t get it either.” Then he drags his hand through his hair. “It’s just another excuse for my dad to try to control my mom.”

I sit forward at his comment. “What do you mean?”

He chuckles, but it lacks humor. “I’m not dumb enough to know my dad fought so hard for custody of me to punish my mom.”

“For leaving him?”

He swallows hard. “Yeah. He thought she’d stay.”

“Do you wish she had?” I quiz.

“Fuck no. She deserves better. That’s why I said I wanted to stay with my dad.” He shrugs.

My gaze travels over his face, and I can tell he’s holding back, but I don’t want to push him, not with knowing what’s about to come.

“Your dad was okay with you bringing me to dinner?” I ask.

He shrugs a shoulder. “I asked if I could bring a friend over, and he swatted me away like a bug. It’s not like he’s ever asked about my friends.” His solemn voice makes my heart constrict, which is weird because I often question if I have a heart at all.

Yet Hallie and Matt bring something out in me; it’s both terrifying and freeing.

I slap Matt’s shoulder. “Well, don’t worry, buddy. I’m the best friend anyone could ever wish for. What more could a man ask?”

He snorts. “You’d be surprised, and don’t take this the wrong way, but my dad probably isn’t going to like you.”

I grin from ear to ear, knowing how much he will dislike me. Hell, he already does, he’s just not aware of how badly, but he’s about to find out.