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* * *
Norhill Brews doesn’t do it for me as I kick back with a beer. Everyone’s there. A game’s on the big screen, music’s playing, and my brother’s all over his wife. If they weren’t made for each other, it’d be disgusting. Sarah’s talking it up with whoever Callahan’s dating, and Leland’s eyes are all for her.
“Pool?”
I look at my closest friend, Isaac, and lean back in my chair. “Forrest might be up for a game. I’m not feeling it.”
“Because you know I’m gonna whip your ass.”
I snort out a laugh. “You wish. Just not in the mood.”
“Where’s Rose?”
I give Isaac a look. “Studying, and dude, eyes and filthy mind off her. She’s my baby sister.”
“Never said a word, dude.” He takes a swallow of his whiskey. “How’s your rescue?”
“Rescued.”
I can see her. That long hair, those soft eyes, the princess soul. Soon, she’ll be a vague memory. Right after I get her car fixed and find out what the fuck’s going on.
“Enlightening conversation, Burns. Something for the ages, really. Now, if you’re not going to play, I’m finding someone else. The babysitter, a.k.a. your mom, runs a tight ship, so I’m on limited time.”
Isaac wanders off to drag Forrest up to play. I take another swallow of my beer and set it down. Mom fucking loves London. So, I’m sure she wouldn’t mind if he turned up late. But I get it. Isaac wants to be the best damn parent to his sister’s little girl. The adoption went through, but he feels he’s got something to prove.
With a sigh, I get up and head for the door. Everyone else is in conversations, though I don’t miss the look from Lawson as I go. What can I say? I’m tired.
I’m going home, and not to the lodge. Nope, not going there at all.
* * *
Sidney frowns at me when she pulls open her door.
I might have accidentally detoured all the way here.
“They let any old riffraff in to harass any guest they want?” she asks.
“Only the riffraff whose twin’s married to the establishment’s owner.” I lean against the doorframe. “Also, your hello might need a bit of work.”
She narrows her eyes. “I’m not trying to be friendly.”
“Because princesses don’t mingle with the riffraff?”
“Depends on the riffraff.”
I clutch my heart. “Actually, I came for a reason. There’s a hold-up with the part, so it’s going to be quite a bit longer.” This is a lie, and I’m not entirely fucking sure where it’s come from.
Horror streaks across her face. “How much longer?”
“Until it gets here.”
“But—”
“I’ll chase it up from somewhere else. Anyway, thought you should know.” Then I go to say goodbye. “Sidney?”
“Yes.”
“Wanna come to dinner with me?”
