Page 177 of Lessons in Chemistry

He looks between us. “This triad of yours works?”

The three of us hold hands.

“It has for the past few months,” I say.

“I’d like it to work for a lot longer.” Em’s cheeks turn bright pink.

“Me too,” Casey says.

Dad smiles. “If the way you stick up for each other is anything to go by, you’ll last.”

Wow. Did he say that?

“I’ll speak to your mum. We’ll arrange a time to come and visit.”

“Thanks, Dad.” I stand, close the distance between us, and pull him into a hug. It’s the first time I can remember ever hugging him. He puts his hands on my back, his touch tentative at first. But as I tighten my grip, he tightens his until we’re hugging properly.

“I’ll do better. No more wild parties. I’ll focus on my studies and do the best I can.”

“You’re allowed to have fun,” he says.

I release him and step back. “Don’t worry. I will. I’m sorry I’m not the heir you wanted me to be.”

“You’re the son I have. I love you, and hopefully, one day, I’ll know you.”

“We’ll get to know each other. In time.”

Dad’s mouth twitches. “It was nice to meet you. Emory. Casey. Take care of my son.”

“We will, and he’ll take care of us,” Casey says.

I see Dad out. We share another awkward hug on the doorstep, and then I keep watch until he’s driven out of sight. Emory and Casey join me, arms around me, chins resting on my shoulders.

“That went well,” Emory says.

“I feel so much lighter.”

“Free?” Casey asks.

I chuckle. “Almost. I still have to finish my degree.”

“There’s not long left. You can do it,” Emory says.

I smile. “Yes, I can. And I’m glad I get to do it with you by my side. Thanks for helping me talk to Dad and making things a bit better between us.”

“Give it time, and things will get a lot better,” Emory says.

I smile. “Yeah. I believe they will. Speaking of which, he promised there would be no more threats. So as long as you feel able to take him at his word, I’d love you to move in with me.”

Casey kisses my hair. “We’d love that too.”

EPILOGUE

EMORY

“We made it.” I can’t stop grinning at my boyfriends.

We’ve picked up our gowns and mortar boards, ready for graduation.