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“No.” Period. She didn’t even ask for specifics.
But I still want to clarify. “I didn’t know he was your brother. And even if I did, that wouldn’t matter.”
A sly grin teases me. “And why is that?”
I stoop until my lips touch her ear. “You’re mine.”
She sways into me while fanning her face. “If you insist.”
“Thirsty?” My bent knuckle traces the flush covering her slender throat.
“More like parched after all that swooning.”
“Don’t let your drink go to waste.” I boost her onto the stool and drag the glass closer. “Bottoms up.”
“What’s this one called?” She stirs the contents with her heart straw.
“Love of My Life.”
Grace flutters her lashes. “You’re so ridiculously romantic.”
I flatten a palm to one side of my mouth and stage-whisper, “Don’t tell the others.”
My stride stumbles to an abrupt halt at the patio that’s built in front of Roosters during the festival. The Summer Sizzler is in full swing and then some. Sweat gleams along Garrett’s forehead as he mixes drinks under the August heat. Six or seven people wait in front of his station for their turn to order. More clump in the center while sipping their specialty cocktails.
I glance at Dad and Layla. “Looks like he’s busy. We can circle back.”
But before we exit the temporary space, a panty-melting voice stops us. “Oh, look! It’s my soulmate and her family.”
The crowd turns to us, where Garrett is pointing. Warmth blazes across my cheeks while I wave at him. I should’ve known he’d spot me.
He clutches a clenched fist to his chest. “Don’t leave me.”
My sister whistles. “Wow, he’s super hot.”
“Layla,” I scold.
She picks at her black nail polish. “What? I’m just being honest.”
Garrett trots over to where we’ve stalled. “Were you seriously about to sneak off before I could say hello?”
“You’re working. I didn’t mean to distract you.”
He scoffs. “As if I could carry on like normal while you’re nearby. Ridge can cover for me. I’m due for a break.”
I didn’t even see him at the cart in the corner, too preoccupied by my favorite bartender. “Are you sure he won’t mind?”
“Didn’t say that, but I’ll return the favor when he’s ready.” His attention shifts to the two individuals I dragged along for the event. “Hey, I’m Garrett. This lady deems me worthy enough to date her. At least until she comes to her senses.”
My previous blush reappears in a blaze. I thump my forehead. “Whoops, sorry. This is Paul, my dad. Layla is my younger sister. I might’ve mentioned them a time or two.”
My father chuckles at my delayed introductions. “Don’t worry, kiddo. Love has a way of scrambling our minds.”
“That it does. Great to meet you, sir.” Garrett stretches his arm forward in offering.
Dad clasps his palm, giving him a sturdy shake. Something passes between them. The silence that follows would make me nervous if my dad didn’t crack a grin seconds later.
“Likewise. I’ve heard a lot about you. Looking forward to getting acquainted.”
