Chapter 16: Foreboding

"Yep," Lucas said with a grin that suggested he was completely serious. "Just you, me, and maybe a nice steak. What do you say?"

Before Annie could respond, Emily nudged her again, this time a bit harder, and whispered, "Say yes. Say yes right now."

She smiled apologetically. "Maybe another time."

Lucas had nodded, his smile faltering only slightly. "I understand. Maybe another time, Annie?"

She nodded, knowing full well that there wouldn't be another time. She couldn't let there be.

As Lucas walked away, Ryan tugged on Annie's hand, his little face serious as he asked, "Mommy, is Lucas going to be my new daddy?"

Emily burst out laughing, nearly dropping the plates in her hands, while Annie's face flushed crimson. "Oh, honey, no, it's not like that," she said quickly, trying to keep her composure. "Lucas is just a friend, okay?"

Ryan looked at her thoughtfully for a moment before nodding. "Okay, but if he brings more presents, I like him."