“That was the idea,” I admit as Jackson takes care of getting us each a drink.
“Are you still seeing Samantha?” I ask.
He shakes his head. “No. That ended pretty abruptly.” He shrugs. “It was for the best.”
“I’m sorry,” I say. “Why?”
He looks at me like I’m crazy. “Because I was moving five thousand miles away.”
I decide not to mention that sometimes people do have long-distance relationships. I know my brother too well, and if he’s back in California, he’s going to want to test the local waters. And since there are plenty of California girls who will find my brother very appealing, I guess that’s okay.
He eyes Jackson. “I would ask you for advice on where to meet girls, but I’m kind of hoping that you don’t have a clue. At least not as far as Los Angeles is concerned.”
“I don’t,” Jackson says, shooting a glance my way. “As far as local pickup spots, I’m not even close to a fount of knowledge. Not even a trickle or a drip.”
“So, you two are really serious, then?”
“Ethan!”
“What? I mean, I would apologize for being all nosy, but you’re my sister and we’re trapped in the back of a limo together for the next hour, so I figure now’s the time to do my brotherly duty.”
Jackson’s lip twitch. “Yes,” he says. “We’re really serious.”
“’Cause I had wifi on the leg of the flight from New York to here, and four hours is a long time to surf the internet. Saw a lot of interesting things about the two of you.” He turns to me. “You’re dating a downright celebrity. You know that, right?”
“Ethan …” This time, my voice holds a warning.
He raises his hands. “I’m just saying.” He shifts so that he’s facing Jackson. “And I’m also saying that if you’re screwing around on my sister with that hot little redhead, I will have your balls for breakfast.”
Jackson’s brows rise. “Fortunately for you, I’m not seeing the hot little redhead. Megan’s a friend, as Sylvia knows.”
“Fortunately for me?” Ethan repeats. “What? You don’t think I could take you?”
Jackson sizes my brother up. To be honest, my money’s on Jackson, but Ethan would definitely give him a go. “I think it would be a hell of a fight,” Jackson says diplomatically. “But what I meant was that it’s fortunate that you won’t have to eat such a truly unappetizing meal. And I don’t have to sacrifice my balls.”
For a moment, Ethan looks shocked. Then he raises his drink in a salute, before tossing the whole thing back. “Oh, yeah,” he says to me. “I like him.”
“Good,” I say, then plant a quick, hard kiss on Jackson’s mouth. “So do I.”
Ethan fixes himself another drink, then asks me if I want one. I hold up the scotch that Jackson poured for me, still untouched. “I’m good for now. You ought to slow down.”
“I’m in a limo,” he says. “Slowing down isn’t an option.”
I meet Jackson’s eyes, and he finishes the rest of his. “I’ll take another,” he says, then shrugs when I lift my brows. “What? Your brother has a point.”
“I had no idea you two would turn into a comedy act.” I speak sternly, but inside I’m gleeful, thrilled that my boyfriend and my brother are getting along.
“I’m surprised you aren’t having another.” Ethan’s voice has turned serious. “I mean, what with going to see Mom and Dad. I know it upsets you, and I really do appreciate you coming down with me. Honest. It means a lot.”
“I’m not upset,” I lie.
“Bullshit. I know you, remember? Grew up together. Shared the same house. Built forts out of boxes and blankets.” He sticks his hand out. “Ethan Brooks. Nice to meet you.”
“When did you turn so sarcastic?”
“Last Thursday. And don’t change the subject.”
I take a long sip of scotch, and tell myself it’s not because I need it. “It’s just Mom and Dad,” I say. “You know I don’t love all the family drama.”
“I know you don’t love it. I don’t know why.” He turns narrowed eyes on Jackson. “Do you know why?”
He shakes his head, lying so easily for me. “Lots of people have issues with their parents.”
“You got that right. Do you?”
