Page 64 of The Biggest Sacrifice

“Farrah, you good, girl?”

Snapping my eyes to Britt, she says, “You’re looking a little warm.”

Tom leans back in his chair, but leaves his hand on my neck, squeezing on and off. “She’s just fine, Britt. Mind your business.”

“Oh, Tommy Casanova has shown up tonight!” Britt claps out each word and the table laughs at her nonsense.

But I squirm. Knowing he doesn’t appreciate this spotlight, I’m trying to send a message with my eyes to Britt to back off.

Tommy must notice because he says, “It’s fine, mouse. I’m used to her.” Relaxing at his words, my thoughts swim. This back and forth is not healthy for him, and I’m afraid the up and down mood swings will be a silent relationship killer.

CHAPTER 38

TOM

My skin is crawling tonight.If I had it my way, I never would have come out to the bar. I would have been balls deep in Farrah an hour ago with the entire night ahead of us for more of the same. Instead, I’m sitting between my girl that I don’t know how to hold on to and the guy that has turned my life upside down.

“Tom! Your turn to buy. Come help me with another round.” Billy stands and throws his head toward the bar. Happy for the chance to move, I squeeze Farrah again and stand to follow him.

We hang at the end of the bar, watching the game on the television for a few moments until Al can make his way down to us.

“How was the visit?”

Still feeling their love and hugs as I left, our promises of seeing each other again soon linger in the forefront of my mind. “It was good.” That's all I can get out right now. Tonight is not the night to go into all of what they gave me.

“You’re looking rough, brother.”

Scoffing at his words, I roll my eyes. “And you’re my twin, so if I’m ugly, so are you.”

“Fraternal. Not identical.” He pushes at me. “And I didn’t say ugly. I said ‘rough.’” He leans in closer. “You know what I’m getting at.”

I do know. And I don’t want to talk about it. “I’m fine.”

“Fucked up. Neurotic. Insecure.”

When he doesn’t finish the sentence, I turn to him with an expectant look.

“Easy.”

Barking a laugh, “I don’t think that’s the word you’re looking for.”

“It’s definitely not emotional. And Farrah says you’re easy as fuck, so, easy it is.”

Shaking my head at his jabs, “Farrah doesn’t say shit.” I nod to Al as he approaches.

“Boys, happy to see you tonight. Another round?”

“Please, Al, thanks. Looking good in here with a full house tonight.”

Al leans on the bar top. “Yeah, business has been great. When Jackson kicks off a winning season, we always see an increase.”

“Don’t tell him that. He’ll be looking for a cut.”

“Funny you say that.” Al leans in closer. “I’ve been thinking of bringing on a partner. I’m not getting any younger and I could use a bit of help around here, clearly.”

“Jackson won’t have time, Al. Between his team here and flying back and forth to Candy Cane Key, my sister would have his head if he took on one more thing.”

Al stands straight. “I don’t mean Jackson, Bill. I want you.”

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