Page 72 of The Wrong Husband

“You’ve become the central node for intra-family communication.” She gives a theatrical shudder. “Trust me, I’m not envious at all.”

“Does that mean you forgive me?” James asks, voice soft.

“I’m thinking about it.” Phe tosses her head.

“That’s all I ask of you, Little Sister.” He holds out his hand. “At least let’s shake on a temporary peace?”

"Don't be such a doofus." She rolls her eyes and smacks his shoulder then opens her arms.

James pulls her into a tight hug, the tension easing from his shoulders. "I really am sorry, Phe. You know, I love you."

"I know. I love you, too. Just… Try to give me some credit, will ya'? I'm an adult."

"You're right." He grimaces. "I overstepped."

“And just so you’re aware”—he shoots me a sideways glance—"I give you permission to court her.”

She opens her mouth to chew him out, then notices the teasing glint in James’ eyes.

“Ugh, stop it.” She scowls at him.

James laughs.

"You’re courting her?" Arthur booms out.

I’m not surprised he’s getting into the conversation. In fact, I wonder what took him so long. Also, it’sArthur.And I do want him far away from me and any discussions to do with my future.

"Come here, boy, and bring your woman with you."

26

Phoenix

So, this is what it feels like to be at the receiving end of Arthur’s surgical stare.

Showing up at the luncheon on Connor's arm was both terrifying and thrilling. Everyone greeted me with the poise and decorum that befitted the famous Davenports. But there was no denying the way their eyes took everything in.

And now, several hours, and several glasses of brandy later, it seems Arthur is finally ready to stop staring and start talking.

I shift my weight from foot to foot and resist the urge to wring my fingers. Then, because I feel nervousness welling up inside, I tap my chest three times. A few slow breaths, and I start to relax.

On the rare occasions I rebelled, one sharp look from her—those laser eyes—and a quiet word of disappointment, was all it took to snap me back in line.

Later, when I started working as a resident, I found the same thing happened with my supervisors. Their disapproval hit hard.I wanted to impress them, to earn their praise. That’s when I first began using the tapping. It gave me something to hold onto when I felt myself unraveling.

Except, Arthur’s x-ray gaze seems to throw me off balance.

This, despite the fact I haven’t done anything wrong.

Unless you count the fact that I haven’t accepted Connor’s proposal…Yet.

As if sensing my apprehension, Connor pulls me close. It doesn’t occur to me to protest. Instead, I lean into his warmth. The feel of his hard body at my side makes me feel protected. Like I’ve reached a port in the storm and now, nothing can hurt me.

Arthur’s shrewd gaze tracks between us. He nods. The look of satisfaction on his face makes me feel uncomfortable. Surely, it can’t be a good sign that he leans back in his seat with a tiny smile tugging at his lips, like he knows a secret I don’t.

"You going to marry her?" He nods at Connor, who stiffens.

The silence stretches. I hug myself tighter, reluctant to enter this conversation.