“Sounds good.” Jenika sank into one of the plush chairs I had across from me and stared at me expectantly.
“So you saw the picture out front of the tattoo that brought you to me?” I knew she had, so why the hell did I phrase it like a question?
“Yeah. So your brother or twin?” She was hesitant, almost as if she didn’t want to fully know the answer.
She knew Rhys had tried to commit suicide, and the tattoo was a way of incorporating his scar into the artwork. Somehow knowing it was my twin made it all seem more real.
Like she would know that I knew what she did.
“Twin.” I nodded, barely looking up from the iPad as I scrolled through to find what I was looking for.
“He’s lucky to have such an amazing tattoo artist for a twin.”
Through my lashes, I snuck a quick glance at her. Her eyes fluttered shut and she shook her head as crimson spread across her cheeks.
“I’ll be sure to tell him that.” I couldn’t help the small bit of humor coming through my voice. “He doesn’t always like me that much. I’m the tough older twin and Rhys hasn’t always had it easy…”
“Oh? I’m sorry to hear that. I’m surprised you didn’t mention that you were related when we talked.” A note of hurt lingered in her words and I felt heat creeping up my neck.
“I did. I just didn’t tell you he was my brother. Which I’m sorry for.I should have been more honest about who he was to me, but–” I trailed off and dragged a hand through my hair. “I’m very over protective of him. So, I don’t talk much about the fact that he’s my twin until I’m really comfortable with someone. I know how much talking about it upset you, so I didn’t bring it up again.”
Jenika nodded, her gaze thoughtful and understanding. The silence stretched on for a moment, and I found myself getting lost in her eyes before she turned away abruptly. “I’m sorry I’m so awkward in person. I told you I was going to be.”
“You aren’t,” I whispered. I reached out and took her hand, desperate for the physical contact. “You’re absolutely beautiful, and I’ve been so nervous. I’m never nervous when it comes to tattooing or anything art related. Rhys and my sister always give me shit because I’m so arrogant. But when it comes to you? I’m like a fish out of water.”