In the cafeteria, Felix and Kip sat at their usual table, steam rising from their bowls of oatmeal.
"I've got some news," Kip said, grinning. "I'm leaving the refugee centre. Got hired as a cleaner at the restaurant where Nova works!"
Felix blinked. "Seriously? That's—wow. Congratulations. Where will you live?"
"Same house as Jared and Nova," Kip replied. "One of the tenants just moved out. Got a job too far to commute by bus."
Felix's stomach knotted. "Any other rooms available?"
Kip's grin dimmed. "Nah. Just a three-bedroom place." He leaned forward. "You should use Jared as a reference next time you apply somewhere. That's how I got this job. I owe him big time."
"No." Felix's voice sharpened. "I don't need Jared. I've got Carter."
Kip frowned. "You haven't landed anything using Carter's name. Maybe it's time to update your reference list."
"I said I'm fine without Jared." Felix stood abruptly, the bench scraping against the floor. His oatmeal sat half-eaten, forgotten. He grabbed his bowl and stalked toward the dish bin.
"Felix, wait—"
Felix was already gone.