Chapter 26

I slip my phone into my lap.

Does she have food?

No dots. What is Derwyn doing? This is unaccept—

Smells like stew from here. Some kind of water rodent. So yes?

I release the breath I was holding. Mother clears her throat. She’s glaring my way, eyebrow arched. I slide my phone away.

Oblivious, Mr. Shah lets out a well-fed sigh and drops his napkin next to his cleaned plate. “My compliments.”

Father inclines his head. The creases at the corners of his eyes are deepening, his face graying. He’s fading fast. He needs his shot.

“We hope you’re enjoying your stay at Sunset Pride.” I take...