Page 108 of XOXO

“Why didn’t you tell me?” I grind my teeth.

“Wasn’t my place. Plus, after Keith, I was sure you’d pick up on the signs.” He shrugs.

“Not your place?” I shout. “You’re my fucking brother.”

“Now I’m your brother?” Christopher stands. “Eight years ago, you begged me not to tell anyone. Said you didn’t want to be treated differently because of who you’re related to.”

“Get out.” I point to the door.

“What’s the matter baby sister, your words haunting you now?” He mocks. “Time to take your place on the other side of Marco.”

“Never!” I shout.

“Hey, hey,” Bobby says, stepping between us.

“You’re as pig-headed as Marco.” Christopher lets out a wall shaking growl.

“You don’t fucking scare me.” Steppig closer, I sandwich Bobby between us.

“Speak for yourself. I’m about to pee myself.” Bobby squeaks.

“Fuck.” Christopher glare shifts to Bobby as he steps back. “We’ve wanted you to join us for two years, but we didn’t think you’d leave the asshole. We decided to make our move after finding out about Nigel and Liza. Marco wanted to be the one to talk to you…”

“Really? Where’s he at?” I snarl.

“You’re definitely scarier than your brother,” Bobby says.

“If you would have answered your phone.” Christopher snaps. “I volunteered to come here today; thought you’d be more receptive to me. Didn’t count on you having father’s temper.”

“Baby, if Marco is ready to make amends, then I think you should.” Bobby wraps his arms around me.

“Mate,” I whisper shifting my eyes from Bobby to Christopher.

“You’ve got to be kidding me.” Christopher looks between us. “Him?”

“It feels like electricity when we touch.” Tears fill my eyes.

“I do get zapped a lot by her.” Bobby laughs.

“Mates are welcome.” Christopher watches Bobby.

“My mother wasn’t,” I state.

“Extenuating circumstances,” he replies. “I’ll make it right.”

“How?” I cross my arms.

“I have a management position available. Interested?” he asks, looking at Bobby.

“Ummm, yes.” Bobby wiggles his body, doing his happy dance.

“Him? You’re positive?” Christopher looks at me.

“Stop it.” I scrunch my face.

“Fine.” He holds his hands up. “Let’s get this over with.”

“What?” Bobby shifts nervously.

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