Epilogue
Tanner
The Dares know how to throw a party, I think, as I loosen the bow tie now that the wedding of my best friend and partner Jason Dare is over.
I’ve never seen so many siblings in one place before.
Being close with Jason since college, I was introduced to the many factions of the family.
The New York Dares mingle with the Florida Dares; the Florida Dares no longer separate themselves by who their mother is.
Glancing around, I have to admit that despite the designation of half-brother or half-sister or cousin, they’ve become a tight-knit unit.
The only unit I have is with my best friends and partners, Jason and Landon Bennett.
Ever since Landon’s twin, Levi, died in a hazing incident we were unable to prevent, I lost my ability, what little I had, to trust others.
And despite my years-long relationship with Jason and Landon, I always feel like the outsider.
The troublemaker. The one who grew up as a have-not, unlike my friends, who, despite their emotional drama or problems, have financial stability and a close family throughout their lives. This gathering is proof of what I lack.
As we celebrate Jason and Faith’s wedding, I stand with Landon, neither one of us with a date, both happy to keep to ourselves.
“I have to admit, I never thought Jason would settle down,” Landon says, tipping his head toward the man under discussion, who holds his bride close as they dance.
“Agreed. But the minute he met Faith, he opened himself up to her.” I don’t want to allow anyone to pry me open. I might be a hothead, I might have a rough past, but I know who I am and I know better than to think a woman could accept me as is.
“Some would say love changes you for the better.” Landon shrugs and picks up the glass of soda he’s drinking. None of us overindulge in alcohol anymore. Not since Levi.
“And some would say love stinks.” I chuckle at my own joke. “Now sex, on the other hand, that’s where it’s at.”
Jason joins us just as I make my proclamation. “Really? That’s what you learned from me and Faith?”
“I learned not to pick up women on the side of the road,” I say, grinning at my friend. I really am happy for Jason, even if the man’s future isn’t something I want for myself. “Congratulations,” I say seriously. “I wish you and Faith all the best.”
“Same,” Landon says.
Jason nods his appreciation. “And I wish you two would find the right women to fill that empty hole you carry inside you.”
“Not happening,” Landon says.
“Agreed.” I have my two best friends and myself to rely on. I don’t need anything more. Or anyone.
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