Now that that’s over, the floor is open for anybody who wants to dance. The plates are being cleared away, and many of the guests are getting up to enjoy the open bar. I can’t help but sigh in relief when Colt and Nix take their dates to get drinks, even though we’re all underage. Things like that just don’t matter when you’re in their position, I guess.

“Sitting here all alone?” James is smiling as he approaches, one hand extended. “That hardly seems fair.”

Yikes. As nice as he is for offering, I don’t know if I want the attention. “I’m not much of a dancer,” I admit, even though the DJ chose another slow song. That can’t be too difficult, swaying back and forth.

“Do you want to know a secret?” He leans down a little, eyes twinkling. “Neither is your mom. But I made her look good, didn’t I?” It has the desired effect, making me laugh and loosening me up. “Come on. It’ll be fine. There’s nothing to it.” I can almost believe him as I place my hand in his and stand, allowing him to lead me onto the floor.

“You know,” he murmurs as he drapes an arm around my waist while taking my right hand in his left. “It’s not always going to be like this. The awkwardness. I see it—I didn’t want to bring it up, is all. But I do see how uncomfortable things have been for you, and I’m sorry. I’ve been quiet about it up until now because I didn’t want to rock the boat before the wedding. I’m sure that everything will loosen up now. It just takes time to adjust.”

I can almost believe him. I want to. Who wouldn’t? I hate what my life has become. It was one thing when I lived only with Mom and had to avoid her for fear of her temper and the ugly things that came out of her mouth. But now?

I almost want to tell him what happened last night, but I wouldn’t dare. Not here, not now. “I’m sure you’re right,” I murmur.

“Besides, brothers are supposed to make their sisters a little crazy. But don’t you worry. If they ever cross the line, you can always come to me. I’ll always be here for you. I want you to know that.”

“Thank you. That means a lot.”

He is a very good dancer, surprisingly graceful and light on his feet. He almost makes me believe I’m good at this. “You know, you do look very lovely tonight. Almost as lovely as the bride herself.”

“Not hardly.” Mom looks like a princess, a queen, seeming to glow from all the way across the room where she’s snapping photos with guests.