A next time

"Yeah...okay." Scott wasn't all that sure about going out for lunch today, but he would. Lunchtime would be here shortly anyway since he'd gotten in to work so late. 

Hearing Dalton had finally popped the question, then being asked to be his best man, Scott looks over to him quickly. A smile spreads on his lips and he nods. "I'd be most honored." Work - and his problems - are forgotten, at least for a few minutes. "Do you guys have a date set yet?"

Glancing down and seeing Grace's foot gently rubbing against his own, Jared moves his eyes back to hers, a faint grin just barely emerging. After taking a sip of water, he concentrates for a moment before wriggling his toes against her foot. 

"Careful," he teases, "I might be tempted to give you another kiss." 

Sticking a forkful of salad in his mouth, he tosses her a flirtatious look before his smile finally pushes through. 

Wiping off the counter with a towel, Rosalyn hears someone behind her, but doesn't turn. Feeling Chad's arms wrap around her, she doesn't jump - his touch was so warm and comforting that it simply didn't startle her. Leaning back into him, she accepts his kiss and just remains quiet until he moves away. 

Turning her attention back to the counter, she rubs a couple dirty spots as Chad talks. She pauses once when he mentions leaving, but still doesn't look up at him, even when he's finished. There are several moments of silence before she eventually replies while still cleaning the counter. 

"Next time won't be different," she states with quiet resentment. "Dad won't change." 

Finally giving up on a stain, she ceases her busywork. Leaning her hands on the counter, her eyes avoid Chad's completely. There were many thoughts that had been crammed into her mind during the short time alone in the kitchen, and some which she wasn't sure she should voice. 

"Maybe there shouldn't be a next time." Her voice had grown even quieter. "I really like you and I want to be with you but... not at the expense of everyone else here. It's not your fault and I'm sorry, but... maybe it's for the best."