“Women?”

“Yeah, there were constantly women throwing themselves at him and again I understood that would be one of the things I’d have to deal with when we got together. I mean, I’m not stupid—he’s a good-looking guy with money who’s famous, so that was inevitable. What I didn’t appreciate was how he played into their attention by flirting back or feeding into it. And when I told him how I felt, he ignored my feelings, and made it seem like I was just acting like a jealous girlfriend. And yeah, I was jealous, but it was more than that. I never felt secure with him, and I didn’t feel like a priority, so without those two things, I knew that I couldn’t be with him.” She let out a breath. “So that’s why things between us ended.”

“A lot of women would have put up with that bullshit, baby, and just pretended everything was okay. Says a lot that you chose your own happiness.”

“No, a lot of women will put up with stuff like that for a time but eventually it will eat away at them. And then they’ll either get out, or become so resentful that the man can’t deal, so he cuts ties.”

“You’re right about that, Mouse.” I pull into a parking garage close to the lounge.

After I find a spot to park, I get out and then help her into the coat she brought with her before taking her hand. When we make it across the street I lead her inside, then scan the open, dimly lit room. The space is filled with small tables, couches, and chairs that are all set up in a way that each is an intimate place to gather with friends or a date.

“There’s Dayton.” Willow points, tugging on my hand and I find him sitting with a cute brunette that I don’t recognize. “Come on.” She starts to walk in their direction, dragging me with her.

I watch my brother stand and smile, as we get closer.

“I wasn’t sure you two were coming.” Dayton greets Willow by kissing her on the cheek, before reaching out to touch his fist to mine.

“Where’s Miles?” I ask, while Willow takes off her coat, laying it over the back of the couch.

“Said he was picking up his date.” He motions to the woman now standing awkwardly at his side. “This is a friend of mine, Grace.” His hand flicks out to me, then Willow. “My brother Clay and his girlfriend Willow.”

“Nice to meet you.” Grace smiles pushing her black framed glasses up the bridge of her nose.

“I love your dress,” Willow tells her, and pink spreads up her cheeks.

“Thanks, I love yours, too.” She nervously smooths her hands down her sides, then looks up at Dayton. “I’m going to get a drink. Do you want anything?”

“I’m good, babe,” he mutters, lifting the beer in his hand and she nods then looks at Willow and me. “Do either of you want something?”