"I can."
Mrs. Fairchild: ...
Even Mr. Fairchild, who had been lying there playing a single-player chess game on his phone, sat up straight. He put his phone down and looked at Evan Fairchild.
Zoe Quinn was also stunned for a moment.
Only Evan Fairchild remained completely calm.
"You said it! You're the one who said it! No take-backs! If you go back on your word, you're going on a blind date!" Mrs. Fairchild said quickly, afraid Evan would recant.
"I won't go back on my word," Evan nodded.
"Good, good, good!" Mrs. Fairchild nodded repeatedly.
'Finally got a straight answer out of this kid.'
"I'm tired. You all go get some rest. Your father and I have been sick these past two days, and it must have worn you all out."
"Mom, listen to yourself." Zoe Quinn took the bowl from Evan's hands. "You two head downstairs. I've had Mrs. Owen prepare dinner. Your brother will be over later to eat with Mom and Dad."
"Okay."
Evan and his brother responded in unison.
