Chapter 6

West grills burgers when Skylar arrives hand-in-hand with Emmy, sparking playful, suggestive banter that amuses the kids and heightens attraction. Emmy teases West about his chest, and Skylar tries to smooth things over, revealing an easy rapport that disarms West despite their earlier tension.

Introductions follow. Emmy reveals Skylar already met Oliver at the lake, where Oliver let Skylar sit beside him while he read. West is stunned that Oliver, who is selectively mute outside close circles, connected with Skylar. Choosing not to spotlight it, West treats the moment casually to protect Oliver’s comfort.

Concerned that Emmy’s intensity might overwhelm Skylar, Oliver asks West to intervene. West recognizes that Oliver relates to Skylar’s public speech freezes and senses why Oliver trusts her. He heads inside to check on them.

In the kitchen, Emmy attempts to serve Skylar cider in a fancy glass, climbs the counter, and accidentally shatters it. Skylar goes pale, seemingly expecting anger. West calmly reassures them, prioritizes safety, and sends Emmy outside to turn off the grill, signaling steady, nonpunitive parenting.

Seeing Skylar barefoot amid glass, West impulsively lifts and carries her outside. The protective gesture, paired with light teasing, turns shock into laughter. Skylar thanks him, and their charged, tender moment underscores growing trust and intensifying attraction within West’s family orbit.