Chapter 21
21
B randon extends a fist for a bump, and I release Rachel’s hand.
“So proud of you,” Brandon says quietly, tapping his knuckles into mine. His eyes have that look—I mean I got lucky, but not that kind of lucky that I think he’s assuming. We smirk at each other until he says, “You need to be back by noon tomorrow.”
“Sounds good.” I nod, leaning against the kitchen counter. “Sorry we didn’t get to hang.”
“Dude, go have fun.” He waves me off.
I glance at the stove where chicken breasts sizzle in a skillet. “Were you cooking for us?”
“Someone might be coming by.” He shrugs, not looking directly at me.
I squint. “Who?”
“You know who.”
“You two.” Brandon and his on-again, off-again girlfriend Kate. They’re confusing everyone, including themselves. In the year I’ve known Brandon, their relationship has been a rollercoaster. “I guess we both have a thing for older women.”
Brandon raises his eyebrows, looking surprised to learn this fact about Rachel. “Well, it looks like my older woman wanted to get out of the city too. She’s at her dad’s place.”
“Right. That’s how you two met, summering up here.”
“Enough about me. Get out of here already.”
“Don’t sleep with her,” I whisper, knowing how that always restarts the “on” part of their relationship.
“I’ll do my best.” He winks. “Wear protection,” he teases quietly so Rachel can’t hear.
“Wear protection.” I nudge him. Although I hope they don’t get back together. He’s so solid in his sobriety. She is not.
Brandon chuckles, pulling me in for a hug. Patting me on the back, he says, “Seriously, I’m excited for you. I have a good feeling about you two.”