Chapter 73

He showed up here every single day, just to sit for a bit and stare at that window with the light on. Sometimes, if luck was on his side, he’d catch a glimpse of Elsie coming downstairs—to throw out the trash, grab a package, or head out and come back with her two girlfriends. But most days, no such luck. William took a slow drag, finished the whole cigarette, and flicked the butt into the ashtray next to him before finally saying, “I’m not coming to your birthday.” Lucas nearly choked on air. “Dude, if Elsie bails and you skip too, what’s the point of celebrating? Might as well cancel the whole damn thing!” “You tell her I’m not showing up, she’ll go.” Lucas squinted. “And what if she still doesn’t?” William lowered his eyes, lashes casting a tiny shadow. “She’s soft-hearted. If you talk to her nicely, she'll agree.” She was soft with everyone—just not with him. Lucas muttered to himself, “If she was really that soft, would you still be freezing your butt out here right now?” After tu