But as I said, the lighting in this parking lot is shit, which means that the discomfort that I’m seeing on my brother’s face is real. He actually fidgets before taking in a sharp breath. “I would’ve made arrangements for you at the hotel.”
“At the hotel.”
His nod is tight. “Yes.”
Again, I have to take a few moments then.
To study him. To study this new expression on his face.
“You sure you’re allowed to do that?” I ask finally.
His discomfort vanishing now, he clenches his jaw in irritation. “Yes, I’m allowed to do whatever I want.”
“I don’t think so. Because I’m pretty sure that you’re still dad’s little bitch.”
And Dad would never have wanted me anywhere near his precious hotel. Or the manor that I grew up in.Orany of the Davidsons’ properties, for that matter.
Something helegallysaw to before he died.
“Look, the reason I’ve been calling you is,” my brother says with a long sigh, not choosing to rise to the bait like he usually does, “I’d like to invite you to dinner.”
“What?”
“How’s next Saturday? Seven o’clock.”
Next Saturday, I’m busy so I can’t make it.
But more importantly,what the fuck?
This is even more bizarre than us exchanging pleasantries. Since when do my brother and I have dinner together?
I narrow my eyes at him. “Are you drunk right now?”
Displeasure coats his features. “No.”
“High,” I ask next, studying his features for the signs that he might be stoned. “Are you high? You smoke a little pot, big brother, huh? Is that why you’re talking crazy?”
He doesn’t dignify that with an answer.
“Because it’s okay if you have. You can tell me. Not gonna judge you. It’s not even real drugs, man.”
“I would,” he says, all serious, “smoke pot. Or do drugs or get drunk. Unfortunately, you either drank all the liquor or smoked all the pot that there was in Bardstown.”
I let out a surprised chuckle. “Guilty. I can hook you up though. Just say the word. I’ve still got my old contacts.” Then, because I can’t help myself, “Maybe it’ll loosen you up enough to do the deed.”
He stiffens at that.
And I love it.
Jesus, how could I have forgotten?
That my brother is a fucking prude and I’ve always enjoyed provoking him this way.
He shifts on his feet again, this time a different kind of discomfort flashing through his features. “You know what, I think we should talk some other time. You’re clearly not —”
I shake my head slowly, a smirk blooming on my lips. “No, let’s talk now. So? You kiss her yet?”
His jaw clenches.