Page 59 of Before You Go

Understandable. I would be uncomfortable, too, if I had to be in the same room as the guy I’m sleeping with and his wife. Taking my eyes off her, I scan the room for Shelly, finding her and my mom still together.

I wonder if she knows that Billy’s mistress is here.

And if she doesn’t, I wonder what she would do if she found out.

Most likely nothing. She wouldn’t want to cause a scene. But that doesn’t mean she wouldn’t be embarrassed—and hurt—that she was put in that kind of situation by her husband, who is supposed to look out for her.

“What are you two doing?” A heavy arm is slung over my shoulders and Molly’s as Jacob comes to stand between us.

“Nothing.” I shake him off. “I didn’t know you were coming tonight.”

“Mom said she’d pay my credit card bill if I showed up.” He takes my drink from me and downs a huge mouthful. Swallowing it with a scowl, he shoves the glass back at me. “What the hell is that?” He wipes his mouth with the back of his arm.

“Sparkling water.”

“Why the hell are you drinking that?”

“I’m really starting to think Mom is paying for you to be on the dean’s list,” I mutter, and Molly laughs.

“Ha-ha, very funny.” He looks around. “Where is Mom anyway?”

“She’s with Shelly.” I point across the room, then ask, “Why do you need Mom to pay your credit card bill? I thought you were working.”

“I am working, but I’m not ashamed to take a handout every now and again.”

“Of course, what was I thinking?” I roll my eyes.

“Oh, okay, Miss Goody Two Shoes. Is your baby daddy here tonight?” Thank God he’s always in my corner, so at least he keeps his voice low.

“Jacob,” I warn, even though it’s unnecessary.

“It’s just a question.” He grins.

“Don’t be annoying.”

“I can only ever be myself.” He shrugs, then says, “I’m going to go get a drink. Do you want another one of those?”

“Please.” I pass him my empty glass, and he looks at Molly.

“What about you?”

“Vodka tonic.” She holds up her glass that’s still half full.

“Cool.” He walks away, and I turn to Molly, then frown when I realize she’s checking him out.

“Don’t do that,” I hiss.

“Franny, you know he’s hot, right? And if he weren’t so young, immature, and an obvious idiot, I would totally date him.”

“Don’t make me puke.” My lip curls in disgust, and she laughs.

“Just saying.”

“You’re gross.” I shake my head in hopes of getting the image of one of my best friends with my brother out of my brain. Honestly, I can’t imagine Jacob with anyone—not just because he’s my brother, but because, like Molly said, he’s immature. I’m sure he’ll grow up one day, but that day isn’t going to be anytime soon, especially since our mother still treats him like he’s a kid. “While Jacob is at the bar, I’m going to run to the restroom.”

“I’ll be here waiting… for Jaaacooob,” she singsongs.

“Can you not be disgusting?”

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