He chuckles a little. “Okay, friends is a bit of a stretch.” His expression turns serious. “I’m sorry about your father, Aspen. It was a terrible tragedy I wouldn’t wish on anyone. But I’m tired of feeling like I need to tip-toe around you in my own home.” He takes a step closer. “I just want to take care of you and your mother.” The words are out of my mouth before I can stop myself, “I don’t need you to take care of me.” He drags a hand down his face. “You’re not going to make this easy on me, are you?” I scrub the dish in my hand with more vigor than necessary. “No.” “That’s okay,” he
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