“So what if I did?” Brenna hissed it as she sat down. “I said I was going to. And no,” she said as soon as she caught the glint. “I won’t be telling you about it.”

“Who said I’d want to know?” But of course she did.She sat herself, leaned close. “One thing.”

“No, not even one.”

“One thing—we’ve had one thing no matter who or what our whole lives.”

“Damn it.” It was true, and to break tradition now would be breaking a bond. “Four times last night.”

“Four?” Eyes widened, Darcy looked toward the kitchen as if she could peer right through the door and pin her brother to the opposite wall. “Well, I have to give him a raise in my estimation. And it’s hardly a wonder you’re looking relaxed.”

“I feel wonderful. Does it really show?”

“You have to look for it. I’ve customers.” Reluctantly, Darcy rose. “I’ll get you a pint—and I’d try the poached chicken tonight. People have been pleased with it.”

“I will then, but I think I’ll see if I can’t have it back in the kitchen.”

“Fine. Get your own pint on your way. Do you want to stay up with me tonight? I’ll bet I can get a bit more out of you.”

“You probably could, as you’re a sneaky, nagging sort, but I need to go home early. I didn’t get much sleep last night.”

“Braggart,” Darcy said with a laugh and flounced off to take an order.

“And how are you, Brenna?” Aidan asked when she came behind the bar.

“Why? How do I look?”

He glanced over, as her response had been so sharp. “Well, you look fine to me.”

“I am fine.” Cursing herself under her breath, she drew a pint of Harp from the tap. “I’m a bit tired, I suppose. I thought I’d have this and a plate back in the kitchen, if it’s all right with you, before I head home.”

“You’re welcome, as always.”

“Ah, will you need an extra hand at all this week, Aidan?”

“I could use yours both Friday and Saturday nights, if you have them free.”

“They are. I’ll come ’round.” Casually, she hoped, she moved past and pushed open the kitchen door. “Can you spare a hungry woman a hot meal?”

He turned from the sink where he had the water running hot and full. His eyes warmed as she lifted her glass to his own lips. “I think I might have something you’ll like. I wondered if you’d wander my way tonight.”

“I wanted to see Darcy.” She laughed and sat down with her beer. “And maybe I don’t mind so much seeing you as well.”

He turned the water off, pulled at the cloth tucked into his waistband, and dried his hands. “And how would your system be?”

“Oh, my system’s doing well, thank you. Though there does seem to be a little bit of a hitch in it still.”

“Would you be wanting some help with that?”