"Let's have lunch together," Elliot said. He was inviting Avery to lunch.

Avery met his eyes and asked, "Have you been waiting out here this entire time?"

In silent acquiescence, Elliot nodded lightly.

If he had not been waiting for her, he would have left a long time ago.

Avery looked up at the sun.

It was early fall, so it was not as hot out, but the afternoon sun was still rather hot.

"Where's Shea?" she asked.

Elliot shot a look over to the parking lot, then said, "She's in the car."

"I see… You two go ahead! My mom cooked, so we're going home for lunch," Avery said, declining his offer without hesitation.

She could not figure out what Elliot was thinking by asking her to eat at the same table as Shea.

Did he not feel shame?

Even if he wanted to two-time—No, three-time anyone, there was no need for him to be this obvious about it!

"I made a reservation at that restaurant over there," Elliot said as if he was unfazed by Avery's rejection. "I need to send Shea to school