After eating dessert, Lana excuses herself, and Avery and Madison head to the TV room, leaving me alone with Zack in an awkward space.
I start clearing the table, and he steps in to help with the dishes. Neither of us says anything, the silence growing heavier with each passing moment.
The only sounds are the clinking of dishes and the running water as we work side by side. I can feel him glancing at me occasionally, but I focus on the task at hand, unsure of how to break the silence.
Finally, I muster the courage to speak.
"Thanks for helping, Zack. It's been a long day."
He nods, not meeting my eyes.
"Yeah, it has."
We continue in silence for a few more moments, the air thick with unspoken words. Eventually, he breaks the silence.
"If you ever need anything, just let me know, Kattie."
I pause, turning to face him.
"I will, Zack. Thank you."
