"Says the youngest brother," Bastien said.
"Hey, don't hold my birth order against me."
Bastien chuckled. He'd never admit it but having Kade come with them was a security blanket. He wouldn't be miserable alone. Plus, Kade had a real talent for smoothing rough waters.
"It isn’t your birth date. It's that cocky ass mouth of yours," Bastien said.
"Hey, it's part of my charm." Mars’ protest was tinged with humor.
"Only to the ladies."
"Harsh."
"Someone's got to keep you grounded," Bastien said.
"Yeah, you boys do a great job of that." His voice was dry, but full of the humor that helped keep the four men with very distinctive personalities close.
"It's part of the big brother code of honor."
"I guess I'll have to take your word for it. Let me get off here and rustle up some dates. We'll meet you over at the house around eight."
"Thanks, Mars."'
"No problem. I'm busting your balls, but I'm happy to see you getting out there finally. Earth isn't Tagget. There are no wars to be fought to keep away invading armies looking to take over. You can have the life back you once gave up to keep us safe. I want that for you." His brother's words made warmth spread through his chest cavity. "Now before I get any more emo I'm going to get off here and make arrangements. Call Kade for me and let him know he's coming. He always blows me off when I try to get him to do anything," Mars muttered.
"I got you," Bastien said.
"All right, see you soon, and both of you, please dress to impress."
The dial tone sounded in his ear before he could respond.
"Smart ass," he murmured, shaking his head.
Chapter Three
Dressed in a pair of black slacks with a black button up and a v-neck black sweater, Bastien headed downstairs. It’s a group date, not a battle, man up. He couldn’t remember being this nervous since childhood. He always knew what needed to be done and did what it took to accomplish the objective. It was a simple way to live. I miss my world of black and white already. The Purge had shielded him from much more than The Wanting. He glanced down at his watch. Ten minutes until Mars was due. Who would believe the General is terrified of a date. He shook his head and left the room to meet up with Kade in the living room.
“You look nice,” Kade said.
“So do you.” His brother was dressed in a pair of gray slacks, a white button up, and a black vest.
“Thanks. I’m never sure what to wear at these things.” He shrugged.
“Dates?”
“Yes, but blind dates especially. I’ve never been to the Shar Bar, and I don’t know the women we’ll be going with, so I have nothing to go on.” He shook his head.
“You’ve got a way with words, Kade. It’ll be okay.”
“Yeah, funnily enough that skill doesn’t extend to women I’m actually interested in.” He rolled his eyes, and Bastien snickered.
“I’m just glad to know I’m not the only one nervous.”
A horn sounded outside.
“I guess that’s us,” Bastien said. They shrugged on their coats and stepped outside to see Mars’ Black SUV. The passenger window rolled down.
“Don’t look so nervous, boys. The girls are meeting us there.” He grinned.