Page 53

“He’s mad,” Lake whispered.

“Security escorted him here against his will. Your brother didn’t know where you worked in the casino so he was loud,” Jesse said.

“Idiot,” Lake said with a huff.

“You ready?” Jesse asked with his hand on the knob.

“As ready as I’ll ever be.”

Jesse turned the knob before pushing open the door.

His brother turned.

Lake followed Jesse into the room with Dom following and closing the door behind them.

The two security officers were glaring at his brother but sent Lake a nod and a smile as Lake glanced at them.

“Lake!” Justice barreled forward.

Jesse stepped between them and Justice growled. “Move.”

“That isn’t going to happen,” Jesse said.

“He is my brother.” Justice’s voice was deep, firm, annoyed.

“And he is mine,” Jesse replied, just as angry. “You can talk to him but you will not touch him.”

“What the fuck!” Justice spat. “I wouldn’t hurt him!”

“Maybe not.” Jesse shrugged.

Lake was staring at Jesse’s back to avoid looking at his brother. He didn’t want to see the disappointment or disdain in Justice’s eyes. Justice was the nicest one to him. He had even tried to protect Lake.

Justice and Jesse were still exchanging words. Getting louder.

“Stop!” Lake whispered.

They ignored him. Or maybe didn’t hear him.

“Stop!” he said a little louder.

Justice grabbed at Jesse.

“Stop!” Lake shouted.

All movement stopped.

“Please stop fighting,” Lake begged. “I can’t have the two of you fighting.”

Jesse turned.

Lake dropped his gaze. He shouldn’t have yelled.

Soft hands were on his face before Lake’s chin was lifted. “I’m sorry. You’re right, baby. We shouldn’t have been arguing.”

“He’s my brother,” Lake said quietly.

“I know.” Jesse turned and was shoulder to shoulder when Lake faced his brother.