Michael crossed his arms. “Our parents have always thrust their ambitions and overachieving ways onto us. Don’t get me wrong. I like being a doctor. But at the time, I didn’t have the courage to go after what I wanted like you did. I really admired you for that. Still do, in fact. After you stood up to them and held your ground, I realized I didn’t have to live up to their ridiculous standards either. I only had to live up to my own.”

“Exactly. I wish our parents would see it that way.”

“Good luck with that,” Michael said, smirking. “They aren’t talking to me right now. You’re on your own.”

Adam shrugged. “Well, I’m glad to hear that you’re doing what you want and not what our parents expect. They really need to learn that success isn’t nearly as important as a person’s values.”

“I agree. Maybe one day they’ll wake up and realize that they can’t choose our dreams for us. But they’re both stubborn and steadfast in their overinflated opinions. So it’ll probably take years. Until then, it’s just us.” Michael clapped Adam on the shoulder. “Hope you’re okay with that.”

“Sounds good to me,” Adam said, glad to have his older brother back in his life.

Michael glanced at the clock on the wall. “I wasn’t planning on leaving until tomorrow, but I think I’ll go ahead and get on the road today. It’s still early enough.”

Adam never thought he’d have to say this to his brother, but…“What’s the hurry? You don’t have to leave.”

“Actually, I do.” Michael nodded toward the closed door down the hallway. “You need the guest room since someone is occupying your bed.” Then he grinned. “Unless, of course, you planned on slipping into bed with her.”

Adam shook his head adamantly. “Of course not. I was going to sleep on the couch. Preslee and I are just friends.”

“Yeah, right. I see how you two are with each other. There’s more going on there than just friendship. Whether either of you admit it or not.”

“Wrong. She’s into another guy.”

“Yet she’s in your bed.”

Adam chuckled. “Yeah, but you know why. She’s exhausted…and it’s not because of anything I did to her. Unfortunately.”

His brother grinned. “Listen, all I’m saying is that I approve. Not that you need my blessing. But I like her a lot. She’d make a great sister-in-law.”

Adam scrubbed a hand over his face. Had he just heard his brother right? “We aren’t even dating, and you already have us married?”