“You’re right,” I said hoarsely, strangely touched. “Even with me.” I took a fortifying breath. Why was I nervous all of a sudden? “His name is Heath. I guess I’m bisexual.”
“That’s wonderful! Congratulations.”
I cocked my head. “You don’t seem shocked.”
“Why would I be? Like I told you, one never knows. And besides, I think far more people are bisexual than we realize or even than they themselves are aware of. We don’t always recognize attraction or even love when it shows up unexpectedly.”
“You really think so?”
“Sexuality and even gender are fluid and can change over time.”
“I guess I’m the proof of that. Well, for sexuality, anyway. I’ve never been attracted to a man before, but Heath is…” Oh, Jesus, there was that goofy grin again, the one that showed up every time I even thought of Heath. “He managed to get under my defenses. Or through them, I don’t know. But he’s sweet and wonderful and super hot, and oh my god, I can’t believe I’m sitting here, gushing to my little brother about my boyfriend.”
Forest laughed with me, but his eyes were suspiciously moist as he took my hand. “If he’s the reason you’re smiling, I already love him. You look lighter, as if a heavy burden has been lifted off your shoulders.”
“That’s all him. He makes me so stupidly happy, and sometimes, I don’t even recognize myself anymore.”
“I’m so happy for you. When do I get to meet him?”
“In a few hours, if all goes to plan. He’s coming over for dinner so he can meet you.”
“I can’t wait.”
We spent the rest of the afternoon catching up. In honor of Forest’s visit, we were ordering Chinese because that was his favorite food. Also, it was my turn to cook, and I’d ten times rather pay for takeout than subject both my boyfriend and my brother to my cooking. I was getting better, but Gordon Ramsay had no competition to fear just yet.
When Heath texted that he was almost there, I got nervous all over again, which was so stupid. I knew Forest would love Heath on principle, so why was I worried? Apparently, that was what I did.
I waited for him at the door and hugged him as soon as he stepped close.
“You’re tense,” he said softly when he let go.
“I know. It’s stupid, but…” I threw up my hands. “You both matter so much to me, and… I need this to be good.”
“Oh, baby,” he said and leaned his forehead against mine. “If he’s even a little bit like you, I’ll love him on sight.”
I was being silly. I knew that, but it helped that Heath didn’t make me feel bad about it. “Thank you.”
“Come on, introduce me to him.”
The second Heath and Forest stood opposite each other, I realized how they had some obvious similarities in character. And I also let go of any nerves because they immediately hugged each other as if they’d known each other forever. “I’m so glad to meet the guy who makes my brother smile,” Forest said.
“He’s talked a lot about you,” Heath said. “And I was really looking forward to meeting you.”
“Now that the sappy family reunion is over, can we get some food? I’m starving,” Tameron said.
Nash slapped the back of his head. “How about you start with some manners? Sit your ass down, Corporal.”
Forest’s eyes widened for a moment, and he swallowed. “That was…” He cleared his throat. “You certainly let them know who’s in charge there, Nash.”
He patted Nash’s shoulder, having to reach up since Nash was taller than him. And Nash, unflappable, tough-as-nails Nash, blushed like a schoolgirl. If I hadn’t seen it with my own two eyes, I wouldn’t have believed it. What the actual fuck?
Tameron was about to comment on it, judging by the look on his face, and so I made eye contact and gave him a firm nonverbal don’t-even-think-about-it. He quickly closed his mouth again. I might not have Nash’s authority, but I had been a sergeant first class, which gave me some power.
“The food is on the way,” I said. “I ordered Chinese earlier today so it would get here at six o’clock sharp.”
“Aw, man, you didn’t even let me choose? I love Chinese…” Tameron complained.
I rolled my eyes. “Wonton soup, dumplings, orange chicken, and fried rice? I got your order down pat, dude. It’s not like you don’t order the exact same every single time.”
