“You’re a terrible liar, Claudia.”
This isn’t good. What do I say to throw her off our trail? “He’s…Bram. I’ve known him my entire life. He’s Owen’s best friend.”
“And you’ve loved him your entire life. Just as he’s loved you.”
Shit. She knows. There’s no denying it. “I don’t know what to say.”
“You don’t have to say anything. It’s written all over your face.”
She has the power to make serious trouble for Bram and me. “Are you mad?”
“No. I adore Bram. Why would I be angry?”
God, what a relief. “Because he’s so much older than me.”
“It’s never felt like there were that many years between you, especially after you got a little older.”
I feel the same. “We worry people will be opposed to us being together.”
“I never have to worry about Bram hurting you. That gives me peace of mind.”
I hadn’t thought of it like that. “We’re planning to tell everyone after my birthday. What do you think Dad will say?”
“Bram is like another son to us but he’s also a grown man. Your daddy still sees you as his little girl. He might not be won over as easily as me but he’ll come around after the idea has had time to sink in.”
“We’re worried about Owen’s reaction.”
“Your brother is protective of you. I wouldn’t expect him to like it much at first, but I think he’ll come around after the shock wears off.”
“Will you keep our secret until we’re ready to tell everyone?”
“Yes, but first I need to know one thing. Are you being safe?”
“More than safe. He hasn’t touched me.”
My mom’s brows lift. “I suppose with Bram that shouldn’t surprise me. It would be just like him to handle you with the utmost respect. He’d never do anything to upset us or your brother regarding you.”
It’s an enormous relief to have my mother’s approval. “Thank you for being so understanding. You’re the best mom in the world.”
She looks up and blinks rapidly. “Don’t make me cry. I can’t have runny mascara in the pictures.”
“I’m going to put on my dress while you grab a tissue and blot.”
I slip into the short turquoise sequin gown and Mom pulls the zipper upward. I step into my silver pumps and rise three inches. I’d be considered average height now. Maybe.
“You look beautiful, baby girl.”
“Thanks.”
“Let’s see if the boys are still here. I’d like to get some pictures with them.”
I’m thrilled when we find Bram and Owen still in the living room. Owen stands and gives me the once-over. “Wooo… check out this hot tamale.”
I hold out the skirt of my dress and do a spin. “Like it?”
“You look great, sis. Every boy at that prom is going to want to dance with you.”
Bram’s brow wrinkles.Don’t go there, Duke. Don’t start questioning what I’ll be doing tonight while I’m not with you.