Page 14 of A Little Bit Whiskey
Fred didn’t take issue with any of the River kids. At least not as adults. But he did have problems with Weezer. Mostly because he always took Anna’s side anytime Anna ranted about Weezer.
This was going to be one hell of a night.
4
NOIR
“Iappreciate the help.” Noir cracked open two bottles of ice-cold beer and handed one to Merlot. “I couldn’t stand to be around Nebbiolo and June a second longer.”
“They are a bit disgusting.” Merlot laughed. He plopped himself down on the sofa in the small cottage, resting his feet on the coffee table in front of the bed. “But she seems nice and brings out the best in your twin.”
“I feel like I lost an appendage.”
“That’s not a bad thing. You two always had an odd attachment toward each other. More so than the rest of us.”
Noir pulled out a bag of chips and dip his mother had sent him. She’d also stocked the fridge and cabinets with a ton of food, claiming she’d overbought for the wedding. But Noir knew she’d most likely taken all the tasty treats from her pantry and filled his because that’s what she did. He knew better than to argue. He set them on the table and eased onto the couch. “That twin bond is different than a sibling bond.”
“I wouldn’t know.” Merlot tapped his beer against Noir’s. “You’re the last single River. Well, the last one who’s not married. How serious are you and Tamsyn? Is it love? Heavy like? Are we talking about moving in together?”
“You’re worse than Mom.” Noir took a hearty sip. He’d been fielding questions all day, even from Corbin, who wanted to be kept informed via messenger while he was training with the Army. Noir couldn’t believe he had a nephew who was twenty-one years old. It baffled his brain. Even though he hadn’t known Corbin until a few months ago, he fit into the family as though he’d always been there.
“Inquiring minds want to know.” Merlot arched a brow. “I can’t say she’s your type because I’ve only seen you take out a few ladies; none were actual girlfriends.”
Noir could count his girlfriends on one hand. He never really dated until college. The first real relationship had lasted his sophomore and junior years, but the only person who knew about Tina had been Nebbiolo. Tina started off as a nice girl. They had fun together and had a lot in common. But soon, as it often did, things got weird. She resented the closeness he shared with his twin and gave him an ultimatum.
He chose his brother.
His second major relationship had been a woman he worked with.
Same problem.
Since then, he dated here and there, but nothing worth noting.
And now there was Tamsyn.
“That’s a complicated question to answer,” Noir said.
“Why?”
“Tamsyn has been adamant for the last month that we keep things on the down-low. Because of that, I haven’t let myself get too attached. However, I care for her, a lot. Perhaps more than I have anyone I’ve ever been with, but we’ve barely put it out there. I’m not sure she’s ready to go screaming anything from the rooftops and I don’t want to pressure her.”
“Let me give you a piece of unsolicited older brotherly advice.” Merlot cocked a brow and lowered his chin. “Don’t wait to express yourself. It’s not manly and only serves to cause problems in the long run. If she doesn’t know how you feel, don’t leave her to guess.”
Noir chuckled. “Oh, I think it’s easier for me in that department, believe it or not, than her.”
Lights flashed across the window. He glanced at his watch. “It’s eleven thirty. I wonder if Tamsyn forgot something.” Leaping off the sofa, he raced toward the door.
“I better get going home and help my wife finishing packing for our honeymoon.” Merlot stood and rinsed his beer out in the sink. “This is technically my wedding night.”
Noir pulled back the door and blinked. “Anna? What are you doing here?” His heart dropped like a brick to his toes. “Oh no. Is Tamsyn okay? Was she hurt?”
“No. No. Nothing like that.” Anna clutched her purse as if Noir was going to rip it from her shoulder. “I’d like to speak with you.” She peered over his shoulder. “In private.”
“I was just leaving.” Merlot scooted past them both. “Take care, little brother.” He nodded. “Good to see you, Anna. Be sure to say hello to Fred.” He disappeared out the door and down the path fast as lighting.
Wonderful.
Anna said nothing and without asking, she forced her way into Noir’s home. “This place is interesting.”
