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He glares at me. “This isn’t a joke. You’re representing the company and our family. Maybe you’re not ready to make this speech.”
I stand up taller, getting pissed. “I’m more than ready. And I’ve been practicing the damn speech I wrote for weeks. I could probably recite it in my sleep.”
The approval on Winston’s face is immediate. “Okay then. Good to know. Meet me on the right side of the stage in ten minutes.”
“Got it.” I nod, then make my way to the men’s room.
I need to take a piss.
After I handle my business and wash my hands, I’m about to leave the bathroom and go in search of more of those appetizers when the door swings open.
And in walks Seamus McFuckinAsshole.
Chapter Twenty-Two
Charlotte
“Charlotte, you lookbeautiful. Married life must be treating you well,” Grant greets me, pressing a polite kiss to my cheek as I murmur thank you before he turns to the beautiful, dark-haired woman standing by his side. “Alyssa, this is my sister, Charlotte.”
Alyssa sticks her hand out for me to shake, a pleasant smile on her face. “It’s a pleasure. Grant speaks so highly of you.”
“He does?” I laugh when my brother scowls. “It’s nice to meet you, Alyssa. Are you two…”
I wave a hand between them, causing Alyssa to send a questioning glance in my oldest brother’s direction.
“Fucking? Yes,” Grant mutters.
Alyssa slaps him in the chest, glaring at him before she returns her attention to me. “Excuse his rude behavior. And yes. We’re—together.”
Well, well, well. My brother has sworn since I was like… ten that he would never settle down with a woman. Our parent’s marriage discouraged all of us from seeking long-term relationships.
But here’s Grant, settling in with a woman. A woman who’s not afraid to say her mind either, which I like. Probably what he needs too.
“Congratulations,” I tell Alyssa with a laugh. “He’s a difficult one to pin down.”
She laughs as well, the sound pleasant. “I can’t argue with that.”
Ooh, I like her.
Grant aims his nearly permanent scowl in my direction. “Stop trying to lure her to your side. She’s mine.”
“I’m not trying to steal your girlfriend, Grant.” His forehead creases at my use of the word girlfriend. Oh, this is fun. “I’m just trying to be honest with her.”
“She knows what I’m about.” He slips his arm around her shoulders, pulling her close to him. A very public claiming, which I find interesting. Reminds me of my husband. “And she hasn’t run away yet.”
“Takes a lot more to make me run away.” Alyssa glances around the crowded room before her gaze returns to mine. “This is a wonderful party. Thank you for inviting us.”
“Oh, you’re welcome. I’m glad you could make it. It’s my first year attending as well,” I admit. “My husband and I were only just married.”
“I heard. Congratulations,” Alyssa offers with a warm smile.
“Thank you.” I glance over at Grant, who’s nodding his greeting at a man passing by. I’m sure there are plenty of people here tonight my family knows. “Where’s Finn?”
“Somewhere around. I saw him a few minutes ago. Crew couldn’t make it. He’s stuck at school. Studying for finals,” Grant explains. “He’ll be home for Christmas though.”
My heart pangs at hearing his name. I can’t wait to see my baby brother. I miss him terribly.
“Saw our parents when we first arrived.” Grant actually mock shudders. “Got away from them as quickly as possible.”
