Asher's POV
The sunlight filtering through the trees made patterns on the ground as Jared and I walked down the park's path. The warmth on my skin was comforting, but my chest still felt heavy. No matter how much I tried to focus on the sounds of the birds or the crunch of gravel under our feet, I couldn't push the thoughts away. They always found their way back, circling in my mind like storm clouds.
"Hey, buddy, what do you think about heading to the duck pond?" Jared's voice cut through my thoughts, and I looked up at him. He was smiling, trying to make me feel better. He always did that—always tried.
I shrugged. "Okay."
The truth was, I didn't care about the ducks. I didn't care about much lately. Mom said it wasn't my fault, that Dad leaving had nothing to do with me, but how could it not be? If I were better, wouldn't he want to stay?
