One thing is for sure: I’m glad I didn’t take the job at the firm. These people are so plastic and fake and even a little creepy. Though this is James’s rehearsal dinner, and he’s getting married tomorrow, half of the women don’t stop flirting with him. Maybe it’s not such a surprise that he met a woman and got involved with her even though she was his employee. I wonder how many of these women he’s been through.

“Champagne, miss?” I’m startled to find a server standing nearby with a tray full of flutes. Sure, why not? It’ll help the night pass quicker or at least more pleasantly. My brain is still way too sharp to get through this without revealing how cringeworthy the entire evening is shaping up to be. There’s more champagne waiting for us when we take our seats, settling in for dinner.

And I’m going to need it since, naturally, I’m smack dab between my so-called brothers. I know I’m technically supposed to wait for a toast or whatever, but I take a few sips anyway. It helps make everything a little more bearable.

I have to sit through toast after toast, pretending to be happy. I’m glad nobody is paying me much attention. Not even the guys, both of whom are on their best behavior for once. Too many witnesses, I suppose. Besides, Nix is distracted by his admirer, who keeps shooting him looks from the next table. I have to fight the urge to giggle before accepting another glass of champagne. It’s not until I finish half of that one that my skin feels a little hot.

Using the napkin, I fan my face with air and take a few calming breaths. My stomach churns, and I reach for the water on the table. No more champagne for me.

“Are you all right, honey? You look a little pale.” My mom reaches across the table and touches my cheek. Her concerned demeanor is short-lived and turns quickly into selfishness. “Don’t tell me you’re getting sick. Not today, and definitely not tomorrow.”

“I’m not sick.”

“Did you eat anything today? Maybe your sugar is a bit low.”

“I don’t know, I…” Shit. The pain meds. “My back was hurting earlier, and I took some pain medicine on an empty stomach. It was stupid. But I’ll be fine.”

“Why don’t you head home and get some rest? I need you up bright and early, okay?”

“Yeah, that might be best. I’ll call an Uber.”

“We can take you home,” Colt offers.

“No. You should stay. I don’t want to ruin your night.” I give him a tight smile. Of course, he knows I don’t want him to come with me.