Page 5 of Claimed By The Other Brother

"We were going over the final details."

"Are you sure about the venue? I was telling your father just this morning, hotel ballrooms can be so impersonal. Remember your cousin Jennifer's wedding? The Grand Marquis ballroom was beautiful, but the acoustics were terrible. No one could hear the vows."

I close my eyes briefly, searching for patience.

"The acoustics are fine, Mom. We did a sound check."

"And the caterer? Did you confirm with them? You know Jennifer's wedding had terrible food. Dry chicken, underseasoned vegetables. People were talking about it for months."

"Everything's confirmed." I raise my hand to hail an approaching taxi.

"The food will be great. Christina has everything under control."

The cab pulls over, and I slide into the backseat, giving the driver my address. My mother's voice continues in my ear, relentless.

"I just want to make sure you're really sure about this,sweetheart. Marriage is a big step. Are you absolutely certain Miles is the right—"

"Mom." I cut her off, keeping my voice level.

"I'm sure. Miles is wonderful. We're getting married next Saturday. Everything is fine."

A pause. Then, in that passive-aggressive tone she's perfected over the years, "Of course, honey. I'm just your mother. I worry. It's what we do."

The guilt trip. Right on schedule.

"I know you worry." I watch the city slide past the cab window, office buildings giving way to residential neighborhoods.

"I promise, everything is under control."

"Your father and I are flying in Friday morning. We'll see you at the rehearsal dinner that evening?"

"Seven thirty. At Marcello's."

"Italian?" She makes a small sound of disapproval.

"I hope they have options for your father. You know how tomato sauce doesn't agree with him."

"They have a full menu, Mom. Dad will be fine."

Another pause, this one loaded with unspoken concerns.

"Well, I suppose we'll see you Friday then. Try to get some rest. You sound tired."

"I'm fine. I'll see you Friday."

"We love you, sweetheart."

"Love you too."

I end the call and let my head fall back against the seat. The cab driver meets my eyes in the rearview mirror, a knowing smile on hisface.

"Wedding?" he asks.

"Next Saturday."

"Congratulations." His smile widens.

"You should be excited. Happiest day of your life, right?"