Page 132 of The Order

“You brought a whole flask just for you tonight?” I question disapprovingly.

“I have my reasons,” he says, looking at Fallan.

“He’s been around a lot lately,” Xavier says, his irritation growing the longer Fallan’s blue eyes watch him.

“Blame Josh. He specifically requested that he be part of the catering team here tonight,” I whisper, trying to free myself from my brother’s grip. “Although I’m glad he’s here. Fallan’s the reason I wasn't ravaged against my will,” I admit, narrowing my eyes at Josh across the room.

“Josh touched you?” Xavier questions, crossing his arms.

“It’s already been handled- '' I start, trying to prevent any more drama from happening tonight.

Xavier moves past Josh, kicking the leg of his chair. Josh immediately tumbles to the floor. Xavier grabs the chair, making it look like an accident. Even Fallan can’t help but smile, watching Josh’s stunned face as Xavier nudges a glass of champagne towards Josh, only for it to slip out of his hands and spill all over the front of his suit.

“I’m so sorry,” Xavier mumbles, looking around for a towel. “Looks like I’ve had more to drink than I thought,” Xavier says. Adam narrows his eyes at him from across the table.

I feel the smile creep up along my face as Xavier moves away from Josh and in the direction where Fallan is taking up space.

Xavier leans into him, both men exchanging hushed words. Fallan’s brow furrows. His jaw clenches harshly.

“What did he say to you?”I question down our bond, meeting Xavier's eyes as he finally moves back toward us.

“Nothing he hasn’t said before,”Fallan whispers, his eyes fixed on Xavier.

I turn to face the blonde, a kind expression across his face as he looks over to me. My brother takes a seat at the table, laughing like an idiot.

“What did you say to him?” I question.

Xavier runs his hand over his throat, his eyes narrowed.

“He spoke to me first.”

“Okay, so what did he want, then?” I question, trying to get a straight answer from one of them.

All Xavier can do is shake his head, coughing with a wince.

“Nothing that matters,” Xavier finally says. Both of their answers are equally frustrating.

Adam claps, motioning his guests to take a seat. We oblige, looking at the grand seat positioned alone at the front of the table. The space is empty, meant for the Commander. I sit next to Xavier, leaning into Kai, doing my best to support him as he slouches lazily into me.

In most scenarios, my mother and father would have scolded him for behaving like this but based on the amount of alcohol filling their cups, I don’t think they’ve even noticed.

The table is filled with savory dishes, each one delicately crafted. The heady aroma causes my mouth to water. Several Unfortunates lean against the walls, watching with hungry eyes. I sneak glances toward Fallan, feeling a fleet of butterflies in my stomach each time he smirks at me. People settle into their spots comfortably, and the sound of conversation buzzes around me.

“All of this, and he didn’t even bother to show up,” Kai says through a burp, pointing to the empty seat with his fork.

Adam acknowledges the space, looking at his watch with a frown.

“Our Commander is a busy man,” Adam starts. “He can’t always make time for things like this. None of us can comprehend the important work he’s doing for New Haven. We’re undeserving of his presence but can aspire to be worthy of it one day,'' Adam says. My dad snorts, holding back his laughter.

Adam glares at my father, watching the way he and my mother both snicker. I watch Xavier smile, giving my dad a look I know goes over his head.

“Is there something you'd like to share, Andrew?” Adam questions. Josh glares at my father, his front still covered with champagne.

My dad shakes his head, giving my mother a soft kiss.

“I am so sorry, my friend. My laughter was not directed toward your comment. Katiana shared something funny, and I couldn't suppress my laughter.”

I shake my head at the pair as I realize how drunk they are. All I want to do at this point is leave this dinner and find somewhere to be alone with Fallan.

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