Page 12 of My Fiancé's Brother

After Jackson left,I crept into his room with the washed linen to make up his bed. The room still felt empty. I dragged in a small table for a nightstand. Then I added lamps and a throw blanket and I stocked his bathroom with fresh towels, soap, and shampoo.

Matt texted me back.

Matt: Sorry. I forgot to tell you about Jackson.

When was the last time Matt talked to Jackson? What was their relationship? Why had he invited his childhood friend to visit? How long was he staying? I chewed on my lip, debating on what to write.

Me: How long do you think he’ll stay?

Matt: I don’t know. Maybe a few months?

In disbelief, I stared at my phone. Jackson was going to move in with us for a few months? I took a few deep breaths. It’d be fine. This would be fine. Matt would come home tonight, and he’d explain everything to me.

Me: Okay. I'm going to make dinner for us all tonight. Will you be home?

Matt: Sure

A few hours later,dinner was almost ready, and there was no sign of either Jackson or Matt. Not wanting to eat dinner alone with our guest, I pressure texted Matt.

Me: Are you on your way home?

Matt: I'm leaving in 5 minutes.

A knock sounded on the door.

“Come in.” My voice echoed across the loft.

Jackson wore a baseball cap and a t-shirt that looked damp in places. In his big hand, he carried a small paper bag. His glance took in the entirety of the loft and the stairs. He was looking for Matt. He stopped on the other side of the island. His eyes observed the simmering pots on the stove behind me, but he didn’t speak.

“No formality required. You don’t have to knock.”

His response was deadpan. “I thought it’d be safer.”

At my expense, the man had cracked a joke. It took me a moment, but I started to laugh.

“Is Matt here?”

“He texted that he’s leaving the office in a few minutes.”

He put the bag down and pushed it towards me.

“Oh.” My breath hitched in my throat. I opened the bag, and the most beautiful scent wafted out. Inside was a delicate little blue ceramic pot with a perfect jasmine plant inside. I buried my face into the tiny white flowers. “I love the smell of jasmine.”

He cleared his throat and avoided my gaze.

“Thank you so much,” I said. “That’s so thoughtful.”

“Would you mind if I took a quick shower? I was working out.”

“Of course. Please make yourself at home.”

He took the stairs three at a time. All power and smooth movements. I watched as he walked along the long hallway. When he got to his room, he turned on the light and stood there, taking in my homey touches. My heart thumped in my chest. Despite his wary nature, something was driving me to make him feel welcome.

Why did I care if he was comfortable here?

I rushed around to put the final touches on the roast chicken meal. Without warning, Jackson now stood next to the island. I jerked when I saw him. Usually, I could hear Matt coming from a mile away. This guy was a Ninja. His messy hair was wet and he exuded a fresh, clean scent.

“Thanks for fixing up my room.” His eye contact was steady.

---