Asher pulled up in front of the Santiagos’ and threw the Jag in park. The car idled as we sat.

“We have one month before we have to do that again,” Asher said, stating the obvious.

“Yup.”

“I … think we should practice some more.”

I balked and spun in my seat to face him. “What?”

“It was stilted and … we … broke out of character a lot.”

“It wasn’t that bad.”

“It could be better. Like Jay said. If Lewis isn’t happy, he’ll keep us there for endless retakes. I’d rather avoid that.”

“So you want to practice?” My voice pitched up an octave.

“I don’t want to. I think we should or else Lewis could get frustrated. He has the power to veto this contract if he deems it necessary. If we aren’t perfect or as close to perfect as we can get, he could still dump on us.”

Asher twisted his fingers in his lap and stared at them, unable to meet my eyes.

“Ash?”

His throat clicked as he swallowed. It took a minute, but he glanced over, his brow creased, and cheeks flushed. “It’s just… He wants these make-out scenes for the trailers. He wants them to look real. He said we had to make it look like we were fucking, but … I don’t know what that’s supposed to look like. I’m not gay. I’ve only ever fucked women.”

“Then watch some gay porn, and you’ll be set. Okay? Thanks. Buh-bye now. I’m getting out of the car.” I reached for the door handle, but Asher clamped a hand over my thigh.

“Atti. Stop. Please.”

I stopped.

“I … did watch some gay porn. Last night. So I could… I don’t know. Act it all the right way today and make sure I didn’t screw up. It’s just…”

Boy, he was having a hard time choking out his words. I was his brother. He shouldn’t be this ashamed. I watched gay porn all the time, but I guess it was weird for him.

“Ash. Spit it out.”

“Fine.” He blew out a breath and threaded his fingers through his hair. “It’s one thing to see the two guys doing it on the computer, but when it’s you—my brother—it makes it … harder to perform. I’m nervous.”

“You didn’t seem nervous. You did way better than me.”

“Well, I am. I’m freaking out because Jay stared at me like he sees a straight guy trying to act gay. I’m not convincing him or Lewis. I feel awkward and way out of my league.”

“Fuck Lewis. Trust me when I say, you’re convincing. Don’t believe me, ask my dick.” I cupped myself and gave a squeeze. “He was tricked.”

“Fine. Never mind. I’ll do my best next month.”