"Eli isn't exactly an ex but your ring means a lot to him, too." Dee was being gentle. "It means he has to give up on something he wanted. It's hard to walk in on that unexpected."

Dee sighed. "I don't know." She couldn't be sure. "He needs to cool off. He's too upset for anything constructive."

Downstairs, Eli looked up at the Swede knocking on the passenger door. He motioned for him to get in if he wanted. The American wasn't sure what to do with himself for the moment but maybe a drive would do him good. Maybe his sister was right?