Page 83 of Be My Wife

“I’ve always wanted to have a wedding in Vegas,” Mom says, “but after Brogan’s father passed, I just… couldn’t find anyone I loved that much again.”

“How did he die?”

“Heart failure. Brogan was devastated. He adored his father. They were best friends.”

“I didn’t know.”

“He doesn’t talk much about them. About anything really. He keeps all his pain to himself. He got that from his father too.”

“Ehem.”

Both women glance up.

Elizabeth’s eyes are thoughtful while Mom’s beam in welcome.

“I put your bags in the guest room,” I tell Mom.

Glancing over at Elizabeth, I raise both eyebrows meaningfully.

Mom destroyed our sleeping arrangements.

I’m not sure if sharing a room with Elizabeth is a good thing or not. Having her next to me in bed without touching her…

It’s going to be a challenge.

“Brogan, come and join us. We were just discussing your wedding day.”

I cross the room and sit beside Elizabeth.

My thigh brushes hers.

She scoots aside, putting more room between us.

I study her from the corner of my eye.

She’s got her slender hands pulled into her lap.

Head down-turned.

Thighs pressed together.

Mom laughs. “Elizabeth, please don’t be shy in front of me. I’m no prude.”

Elizabeth offers a pained smile.

“Mom, how long do you plan on staying?”

“As long as my son will allow.” She bats her thick eyelashes. “You won’t kick me out on the street, will you?”

“What do you mean? What happened to your apartment?”

“Nothing. I just wanted a change of pace.”

I give her a suspicious look.

Her cheerful laughter rings through the room. “Brogan, would you stop scowling? You look so much better when you smile.” She taps Elizabeth’s hand. “Doesn’t he, honey?”

“Mom,” I sigh, “if you need money—”

---