Page 60 of Falling for my Brother's Best Friend

“How’s Sedona?” I lean back in my chair.

“Fine, I guess.” She rolls her eyes.

The twins might be opposites, but they’re entwined in each other’s lives regardless of whether they share the same bedroom or are thousands of miles apart. With Sedona in New York for school and only returning for family functions, I imagine Phoenix feels like Denver did when Rome went to Europe to study under the famous chefs. The difference is, Denver had me. Phoenix is living with her older brother and his wife while they try for a baby. Her dream has died—at least for the time being.

“What does fine mean?” I ask.

“That douche Jamison is back in the picture, I guess.”

“The foreign exchange student she was dating your senior year?”

“Jeez, no one could call you a dumb jock.”

I shake my head. “Watch it with the stones. I can hurl boulders back if I choose to.”

She smiles, a bring-it-on one, but the last thing I would do is razz Phoenix when she’s healing a bruised ego after returning from LA. “Anyway, she’s talking about bringing him home after she graduates.”

“I thought he was some hot-shot soccer player in Europe now?”

A hollow laugh escapes her. “He was, but he’s playing for the North American Soccer League now.”

I act as if that’s impressive, but I don’t follow soccer, so I really wouldn’t know.

“It’s like the minors for baseball,” Phoenix clarifies. She’s obviously searched out answers. “He’s all Sedona can talk about. It’s nauseating. And she wants to be a travel writer, but how is that going to happen?”

“Your mom did it and she was based here in Alaska.”

Phoenix’s gaze shifts to the table. The mention of her mom is a sore spot. I wish I hadn’t asked about Sedona.

Lucky for us, Grandma Dori comes in to join us. “Liam,” she coos.

What can I say? The woman loves me.

“Dori.” I stand and kiss her cheek.

“Savannah will be right in. She’s finishing up a meeting.” Dori looks at Phoenix, and she nods. What are these two planning? “Phoenix would be happy to get you a drink.”

Dori and I look at Phoenix, but she’s inspecting her nails now.

“Phoenix? Drinks?” Dori nudges.

Phoenix looks up. “Sure. I’ll have an iced tea.” She returns to examining her nails.

Dori sighs next to me. “No, dear, you get the drinks.”

“Oh. Okay. I’ll be back.” She slides her chair out and leaves the room.

“I’m not sure her heart is in it,” I say and sit back down.

Dori takes the seat Phoenix vacated. “I know, but until she figures out her next step, she needs to learn what the real world is like.”

I love Grandma Dori. She’s a great mentor to not only me but all her grandchildren. I’m not sure I agree with Phoenix working at Bailey Timber though. If anything, this will turn her off becoming a responsible adult with a nine-to-five job.

The light bulb goes off in my head. I get it now. Dori’s showing her what her life might be like if she gives up on her dream. Sly Dori.

“Hungry? Eat, Liam.” My stomach growls as she speaks and Dori laughs.

I stand from my chair. “Can I fix you a plate?”

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