“You’re so conceited.” I laugh, finding bantering with Drew refreshing.
Pepper laughs boisterously at something Drew said. They haven’t noticed I came into the damn room. My temper flares, and my inner beast bares its claws, ready to shred my brother to the bone. Drew swears he’s a goddamn comedian. Sly bastard. It can’t be that fucking funny.
“Am I interrupting?”
“Hey, bro, Pepper and I are shooting the breeze.”
“Got everything done?” Pepper asks.
“Yes. Disappointed?”
“No,” she says, confused. “Why would I be?”
“You seem to prefer my brother’s company to mine. Should I give you and Drew some privacy?”
“What are you trying to imply?” Pepper asks.
“You two are flirting right under my fucking nose.”
Drew jumps to his feet. “Dude, what’s your problem?”
“We were having an innocent conversation,” Pepper protests.
“Quit sniffing around Pepper.”
“How could you think I’d betray you? I’m your fucking brother, Dom!” he shouts. “I’m not to blame for your best friend fucking your fiancée.” He storms from the room.
“Your best friend? Why didn’t you tell me? Knowing helps me understand you better.”
“Don’t start your psychobabble!” I bellow, leaving the solarium in search of Drew. He would never break my trust. It’s Pepper. I’m a raging lunatic because of her. I spot him and quickly match his stride.
“I’m an asshole.”
“Some apology,” he snorts, facing me.
“It’s all you’re getting.”
“Jealousy turns you into an even bigger turd.”
“I’m not jealous,” I deny.
“Pepper has you tied in knots. You’re a goner, admit it.”
“She’s a summer fling.”
“You’re using her?” he asks in disgust. “That’s low.”
“She knows what this is. I’ve been straightforward from the beginning.”
“I was rooting for you and her, but now I hope she kicks your pathetic ass to the fucking curb. Pepper deserves a man who’ll cherish her.”
“Prince Charming will have to wait until summer’s over. Until then, she belongs to me.”
“I’m outta here.” He throws his hands up in annoyance. “You’re a major dick.”
I barge back into the solarium, startling Pepper. “Go to my bedroom.”
“We should talk,” she says tensely, eyes wide as saucers.
