Page 45 of If You Claim Me

She’s used to struggling. To instability. To suffering. Maybe that’s why this arrangement works for her. Because she already knows what the end will look like, and it’s better than the unknown.

I slip into the bedroom reserved for me since childhood. I stayed here on occasion when my parents went away without me and my sisters. Everything is dark wood finishes, draped in dark blue velvet. I’m accustomed to the beautiful excess, but I try to see it through Mildred’s eyes.

I check my phone for the first time in hours.

Mother

I’ve arranged a venue walk-through for you and Mildred. A tux has been sent over in an appropriate color. I expect you to wear it and not embarrass me or enrage your father with another outlandish suit.

If it isn’t black, white, or beige, it’s considered outlandish. I fight the wave of guilt over what my mother must endure on my behalf.“Why can’t you just do what you’re asked for once, Connor? Why do you always have to make your father angry? Why can’t you just be good?”But it’s a choice to be the person my father pushes around, just like it’s my choice to lean into the bad reputation I’ve earned and wallow in it.

Mother

Please ensure that your fiancée is dressed appropriately as well. Your father was not happy about the photos from the engagement party. He said Mildred looked like a harlot and none of those photos were acceptable for a media release, let alone an article in The Hotelier.

Connor

I also have new messages from my sisters. I brace myself, because they’re often on the receiving end of my parents’ disdain after an event where I’ve done something to embarrass or displease them, which is always.

Isabelle

I have pictures from the engagement party, and I’ve been meaning to share them all week!

How cute are you?

An image pops up. My finger is tucked under Mildred’s chin, and her eyes are closed, while mine remain slightly open, my lips pressed gently to hers. My father is wrong about the dress. Mildred is stunning.

That one kiss has been all I can think about whenever I look at Mildred’s pretty mouth. And now I have a picture to go with the memory.

Portia

That fucking suit. Mother nearly lost her mind.

I grin at the profanity. Portia only has a potty mouth in our siblings group chat.

Connor

She’s very adamant that I wear black for the venue walk-through I’ve been informed is taking place.

Isabelle

I might need to go out of town for the weekend if you decide not to.

Portia

I’ll arrange a spa weekend. You know our brother can’t help poking the bear whenever he gets a chance.

Isabelle

If we could all be so brave.

Connor

I’ll arrange your spa weekend. Niagara on the Lake is nice this time of year.

Portia

It’s so quaint.