Barlow chuckled, gently pulled her hand away, and coaxed, “Of course not.


    Let’s team up and crush him, shall we?”


    Karina rolled her eyes theatrically and said nothing more.


    Just then, Shari chimed in, “Um, can I join you?”


    ALL three turned to look at her, and Karina asked, “Shari, do you know how to y this game?”


    Shari nodded.


    “I’m pretty decent at it.”


    “Perfect, you team up with Kyson,” Karina suggested.


    “Alright.”


    With that, Shari took out her phone, settled next to Kyson, discussed the game briefly with him, and then they Launched into a four-yer battle.


    Meanwhile, Maggie carefully fed Sanford bite-sized pieces of fruit.


    He sat in his wheelchair, engrossed in a chess match with Brendan.


    As Maggie’s eyes drifted, she noticed Shari joining the game with Kyson and others, causing her to blink in mild surprise.


    Lately, she had observed Shari closely, finding nothing amiss about her.novelbin


    Her speech and actions were consistently polite.


    Maggie wondered if she misjudged Shari.


    Perhaps Shari’sment from the other day was simply a moment of honesty,cking any deeper intent?


    “Sanford, did you just let me win again?” Brendan asked.


    He had just dered checkmate, securing his victory.


    “No way,” Sanford replied, chuckling.


    “It’s obvious you’re the better yer.


    Brendan’sughter was full and rich.


    “Don’t try ttering me.


    I am good at spotting these little tricks.”


    “Well, should Ie clean, or should I keep quiet?”


    Brendan’sughter echoed with genuine warmth.


    “Sanford, you’re such a lovely young man.


    Our family will always remember the way you looked out for Rosalynn and Brian.”


    “Oh, don’t mention it,” Sanford said.


    At that moment, Frankie walked over, fresh from the bathroom.


    “So, who won?” he asked, ncing between them with interest.