We’ve both been all dolled up with makeup, hair, and nails. The only thing left is for us to put on our dresses. Mom is still running around checking on everything. The event planner has it handled, but my mom can be a bit OCD when it comes to certain things. Her new husband is one of them, and it’s rather adorable.

“Does my brother want to murder you or bang you?” Emily tosses back after she gets her bearings. What is it with these Scores and them shocking the hell out of you? “I’m guessing bang since there were a few whispers that he picked you up from the party, and someone spotted him kissing you.”

I let out a groan. “Are you going to say anything?”

“It’s true?” Emily almost comes out of her chair. “I was bluffing. I mean I saw how he wouldn’t stop staring at you at dinner, but I…” she trails off, shaking her head.

“It’s nothing. Really.” Asher’s words still linger in my head.

What have I done?

“Nothing? Right.” She snorts a laugh. I’m not sure what to make of her response.

“It isn’t. I mean the man doesn’t even live here.” I actually don’t know where he lives. He’s been in Japan. It was my understanding he was going back there after his father’s birthday. In fact, now that I recall, he was going to be leaving right after. I rub the center of my chest, a weird burning sensation forming there.

“Just interesting. I’ve never seen my brother show affection toward a woman. Unless you count me.”

“Really?” I can’t help but want to hear more. I’m not sure what is happening between Asher and me. Is this some fling? The man is so bossy and practically blackmailed me. With the way he knows how to use that mouth of his, I’d think there was a line of women in the past.

“He’s got mommy issues.” I scrunch my nose. “Our mom isn’t a very nice person. Asher had to deal with her more than I ever did. He grew up with her. She was in and out for me and then suddenly gone.” Emily shrugs as if it’s no big deal.

“So, he thinks all women are like your mom?”

“Probably doesn’t help that socialites are always trying to get their claws into him. You’ll see.”

“I’ll see?”

“Tonight. Just watch and wait. You’ll see them try to circle him like he’s prey.” Oh, that sounds lovely.

“He’s never dated someone?” Emily turns to face me at my question with a smirk on her lips.

“Are you digging for information?”

“No!” Now it’s me whose face is turning red.

“Has there been more than a few kisses between the two of you?” She leans in, her eyes wide again.