Page 62 of Bragg's Love

“What are you doing?”

“Dropping picnic tables on his foot,” Elder answers.

I glance around and realize all of the Bragg brothers are here. “What’s going on? Why are all of you here?”

“What's the difference between a philosophy major and a picnic table?” Elder asks instead of answering my question. “A picnic table can support a family.”

Brody laughs before high-fiving Elder. I ignore them.

“Why are the Bragg brothers putting picnic tables in front of my store?”

Oops. I may have screeched my question. It’s possible I’m a bit panicked. Today has to go well or I’m sunk.Don’t think about it, Eden. Thinking about it doesn’t help.

Miller abandons his picnic table and strides toward me. He squeezes my shoulders. “Take a deep breath, flower girl.”

I hate to admit it, but my body follows his directions without question. He says ‘take a deep breath’ and I take a deep breath. I close my eyes and he wraps his arms around me and hauls me near. I sink into his warmth.

His comfort flows over me like a warm blanket. I want to spend the rest of my life in his arms. Uh, what? I don’t do relationships or commitment. I can’t spend the rest of my life in his arms. I push him away. He sighs but lets me go.

“I’ll be best man at the wedding,” Elder announces.

Miller scowls at his brother.

“What? I’m your twin. You can’t possibly think another one of these clowns would be your best man.”

“Clowns? Awesome.” Brody rubs his hands together. “Do I get to wear the extra-large shoes and a red nose for the wedding?”

“Don’t forget the wig,” Riley adds.

“Do we get matching outfits?” Brody asks.

“Matching but in different colors, I think,” Riley says.

I groan and bury my hands in my face.

“Don’t worry,” Miller says. “You get used to them. Mostly.”

“Ah, big scary brother Miller loves us,” Brody coos.

“We should hug him,” Riley says.

Brody and Riley rush toward Miller who plants his feet and crosses his arms over his chest. He cocks an eyebrow and the twins come to a screeching halt.

“We’ll hug him later,” Brody says.

“Maybe next decade,” Riley agrees.

“I’m enjoying the Brody and Riley show but—” I get cut off before I can continue with my lie.

“Ah, our new sister loves us already.” Brody winks at me.

Riley puffs up his chest. “Of course, she does.”

“We’re awesome,” they exclaim in unison.

“Can someone please explain to me what’s going on before I plant poison ivy in all of the Bragg brothers’ underwear?” I ask.

“This one doesn’t wear underwear.” Elder points to Miller. “Although, I guess you already know about him going commando.”

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