Page 28 of Claimed By The Other Brother

"That's fine." I lean into him, trying to ground myself.

"Have fun. Just don't party too hard. You need to be functional tomorrow."

"I'll be perfect tomorrow." He kisses my temple, then turns to Dax.

"You want to come? Have a drink with your little brother?"

Dax's expression doesn't change.

"I appreciate the offer, but I have some work to catch up on. Early morning tomorrow."

"Work, work, work." Miles shakes his head.

"That's all you ever do."

"Someone has to." There's no heat in Dax's words, just a statement of fact.

Miles's groomsmen call to him from across the room.

"Miles! Let's go!"

"Alright, I'm coming!" He kisses me again, quicker this time.

"I'll text you later. Love you."

"Love you too."

He stumbles slightly as he walks away, and one of his friends catches his arm, steadying him. I'm left standing with Dax again.

"He'll be alright," Dax says quietly, watching his brother leave.

"Eric will make sure he gets back safely."

"I know."

Barbara approaches, saving me from whatever I might have said next.

"I'm heading back to the hotel, dear. Do you need a ride anywhere?"

"No, thank you. I have a car waiting."

"Alright. Get some rest." She hugs me warmly.

"I'll see you tomorrow. You're going to be a beautifulbride."

"Thank you, Barbara."

She leaves with a small wave, and the room is nearly empty now. Just me, Dax, and a few stragglers.

"I should go too," I say.

"Long day tomorrow."

"Of course." He steps aside, but as I move past him toward the exit, he speaks again.

"Scarlett."

I stop, turn back.