Brunch was awkward. Not just normal awkward - the awkwardness you feel when meeting the mother of your boyfriend - but really awkward with prolonged moments of awkward silence and weird, awkward small talk. Chloe was no stranger to awkward meals, but even this one was beyond her. Declan sat beside her seemingly unconcerned or even affected by the strange uncomfortable vibe around the table. Was this just normal for this family? Is that why Declan behaved as if nothing were amiss?

     Chloe took a quick look around at the people sitting at the table. They were all looking at her as they ate. It was creepy. She felt like...