Whiskey in a familiar crown-shaped bottle that was either similar to the one Randy had purchased or that very one sat open beside Vaughn on the seat. The dark liquid shone through the glass resting in Vaughn’s hand, seemingly ignited by the reflection of the flames in the woodstove across from him.
The expression on Vaughn’s face told Randy everything he needed to know, but just to make sure Randy understood, Vaughn sighed heavily and asked, “What do I have to say to you to make you go away?”
Randy didn’t wait for Vaughn’s invitation. He dropped down beside Vaughn and handed over the container of cookies. “Peace.”
Vaughn didn’t reach for it. He didn’t stop attempting to burn a hole through Randy with his gaze. He didn’t even blink.
“Please, Vaughn.”
The eye-roll Vaughn gave him was al
