“You’ll get used to that,” she muttered.
I had to clench my molars to keep from snapping. I knew Brooke well enough to know that she would finish anything I started. This was how she’d always been.
“What’s been going on with your singing?” I asked slowly. “I’d love an update.”
That did it. She immediately perked up and gushed about her new life. Apparently, she’d been the lead singer on one ofthe busiest nights of the week, and she’d made decent tips too. It was strange to go from knowing everything about her to her having her own life, but I knew she would never truly leave.
Some days I wasn’t sure if that was a good thing or not.
“All of that sounds great,” I said. “I’m happy for you.”
“It’s all finally coming together for me.” Her gaze turned to me. “Have you figured all your stuff out yet? How did the town react?”
“I haven’t told them yet.”
Her eyes widened. “People still don’t know?”
I shook my head. “No.”
“But you’re like . . .round.”
“I’m not—that’s kinda rude to say.”
She rolled her eyes. “I’m your sister. I’m allowed to be honest.”
I wanted to let the words roll right off my back, but they stuck. A lot of the stuff she’d said tonight was sticking with me.
“I’m gonna go start on dinner.” I stood before I started a fight I couldn’t finish.
“Yay! I love it when you cook.”
She was lucky I was planning to cook for Dean anyway. It wasn’t anything fancy, but I had frozen soup that I wanted to use up before it got hot outside. My chili was one of my favorite dishes to have over and over again.
I’d wanted to show it off to him, but plans had changed.
While that heated, I pulled out my phone.
Brooke is here. I know you don’t wanna be around her, so I understand if you wanna try the hotel again or find somewhere else. I’m so sorry. She didn’t give me any warning.
After that, I put my phone away to focus on getting everything ready. I had a tin of rolls, so I decided to make that as well.
“It’s simple tonight,” Brooke muttered. She must have come to check in on the progress of dinner.
“I’m tired.”
“You’re only gonna get more tired. Might as well do things while you have the energy.”
I only stirred the soup, refusing to give in to her. Obviously, she wanted something different. She could always go find something else if she felt that strongly about it.
She waited for a long moment before scoffing and going back to the living room.
The soup was almost reheated when the front door opened. I peered around the corner and saw that Dean was walking in.
“Did you get my text?” I asked as I abandoned my station to get to him. He was taking his boots off on the mat.
“Hello to you too,” he said.
“Dean, Brooke’s here.”