"More?" Nicole nodded to the empty glass.

Declan shook his head.

"So, what's going on?"

"It's really nothing."

Declan played with his glass, avoiding Nicole's gaze.

"I had a fight with my father."

"Declan, did he--"

"No. I wish he did. He'd have to be around to hit me."

"What did happen?"

"I came home from school and there were plane tickets on the counter. He just got back a couple of days ago and he was leaving again. I kind of snapped. I said some stuff. My dad said some stuff."

"Stuff?"

Declan sighed deeply. Nicole could tell that he was holding back tears. Whatever Declan's father said clearly hurt.

"Stuff like what a disappointment I am, how my mother didn't want me and that's why she left."

"Declan, I'm so sorry."

"Whatever." Declan shrugged. "I just need to get out of the house until he left. Hang out some place a little more friendly."

"Honey, we're back." Steve walked in, arms full. "Hey Declan, what's up?"

"Not much." Declan nodded as Lori, Josh and Kyle walked in.

Nicole began unpacking bags. "Declan was just telling me that his father was out of town so I invited him to stay for dinner."

"If that's okay."

Steve nodded. "Sure, we've got plenty."

Declan looked at Lori. "Okay with me."

"We got Aladdin." Kyle grinned. "And Snow White."

"The movie selection is rather G rated." Josh rolled his eyes.

"Cool with me." Declan laughed. "I'm a closet Disney junkie."

"Lori, it's your turn to set the table."

"I'll help." Declan grabbed the stack of plates and disappeared into the dining room.