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“Is that—?” I whisper.
“Archer and William.” He takes my hand and we creep closer. We’re eavesdropping, but I’m curious and Nate must be too.
“You’re a talented designer and builder, Archer. When you were a child I imagined you erecting museums and churches when you grew up. Not clubs and bars. I humored you when you said this was what you wanted to do in the company. I never dreamed it’d be the cornerstone of your legacy.”
“The money—”
“Is secondary,” William interrupts. “The Owen name is synonymous with greatness. Establishments with spinning lights worshiping overindulgence are—”
“Beneath you. I know.” Archer’s tone is lethal. William’s answering sigh of exasperation suggests this argument is one they’ve had before, and will have again in the future.
“Enough of this,” William says. Soft footfalls on plush grass vanish in the direction of the house. When we make our appearance from the mouth of the garden, Archer is the only one standing in the backyard, his head inclined as he studies the stars.
Nate clears his throat and Archer turns. If not for the flash of surprise on his face, I would’ve guessed he knew we were there.
“Nate. Vivian.” His surprise fades swiftly.
“We were admiring Lainey’s roses,” I needlessly explain.
He watches me for a beat. “Sorry you had to hear that.”
“I didn’t hear much. Only that you’re ruining the world by building bars.” I offer a sympathetic smile.
Archer’s lips twitch, almost returning my smile, but not quite. “Dad and I don’t agree on the evolution of Owen Construction.”
“When my dad was alive, he and I didn’t agree on much, either.” I feel Nate’s eyes on me, approving. “He was…difficult.”
“Did your brother think so?” Archer asks, his features stone.
“Um, I don’t know. Walt wasn’t around as much as me.”
“My brothers don’t find Will difficult.” His challenging gaze shifts to Nate.
“Do you have amnesia?” Nate asks. “Did you forget how hard he was on me when I moved into this house?”
“And you bloomed.” Archer drags the word out. He shakes his head, a subtle move. I have the impression he’s coiled and ready to strike even though his casual stance hasn’t changed. “I don’t respond to him as well as you do.”
Before they can lunge at each other like rival vampires, I say, “Why don’t you two have a cigar?”
Nate turns to me, his eyebrows lifting in surprise. “Really.”
“Yes, really.” He gave me space to be with my brother, and the least I can do is return the favor. “I’ll be inside.” I squeeze his arm and turn to leave, but he pulls me close and kisses me before I can.
“Thank you,” he mutters, his blue eyes sparkling.
“You’re welcome.” It’s nice to be able to give him what he needs.
I wave to Archer and head inside to find Cris.
