Page 126 of The Wife Situation

“Please tell me I guessed right, or this is going to be embarrassing,” I whisper with a laugh.

“You did,” he says, brushing his fingers through my strands. “Did you sleep okay?”

I nod, knowing he held me until I fell asleep last night. By the time we ate, we were too tired to do anything but sleep. I felt safe with his strong arms wrapped around me.

Weston bursts into laughter. “Oh, so you know, for future reference, I’d stick my tongue in your mouth.”

Easton’s jaw clenches. “No, he wouldn’t.”

“He has no idea what I’d do.” Weston sips his coffee, grinning as he stares forward at the pasture, where a few training horses are grazing.

I can tell he enjoys pushing Easton’s buttons, but I know he has his brother’s best interests in mind.

Always.That’s indisputable.

I focus back on Easton. “How were your pancakes this morning?”

“I was polite,” he tells me, grumbling. “For you.”

“Thank you,” I say. “It’s called Southern hospitality. You accept food, eat it, and saythank youwith a smile.”

“This will take some adjusting,” he admits. “I’m accustomed to saying no and meaning it.”

“Not while you’re here,” I say.

“Not when I’m withyou,” he corrects.

“I like seeing you two like this,” Weston says. “Don’t even have to pretend.”

Our heads snap toward him.

“So, when is the wedding?” he asks casually, rocking back and forth.

“Sometime within the next thirty-one days,” Easton confirms. “Don’t ask me again. I know you’re keeping count.”

Brody comes from around the house, steps onto the porch, and stretches. Sweat covers his shirt, and he’s wearing athletic gear and running shoes. His muscles bulge out of his clothes, and I can’t help but notice that his legs are covered in tattoos too.

“Okay, you’re scary as hell,” I say. “I think I do like having you as my bulky shadow.”

I turn my focus back to Easton. “If we want to visit my mother today, we should probably get going. I believe she has a book club meeting tonight at five. Also, can we go alone?”

Easton tucks loose strands of hair behind my ear. “If that’s what you want.”

Weston snickers, and we ignore him.

“Brody, have fun hanging out with that one today,” I say, pointing at Weston.

He shrugs, then grabs the handle of the screen door. “I’ll be upstairs, showering.”

I stand and pull Easton with me. “I’d like to take you around town first. Grab a mocha. Maybe we can visit the bookstore?”

“If it will make you happy.”

“Verymuch.”

“Consider it done. When would you like to leave?” He checks his watch.

“Now,” I say. “I’d love to get the family stuff over with right after lunch.”

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