Page 3 of Love: Take Two

"Wooo!" he yells, lifting his arms above his head. "I'm gonna be a movie star!"

That's been his response any time I mention the deal, and I can't help but laugh. Too often, nepotism and backstabbing win out over genuine talent and hard work. It's refreshing to see a nice guy come out on top for a change.

Maybe a little naïve, too, but I'll be here to keep him out of trouble. I'm probably stressing over nothing. He's an adult; he can handle it.

"I'm hitting the restroom," I call out, already moving towards the back of the club.

He gives me an upward nod before he's swallowed by the crowd. For someone who doesn't party, he's really putting me to shame.

I finish washing my hands and sneak a peek at the clock behind the bar.

2:48 AM

Damn.I didn't realize it'd gotten so late. I glance over at Yong-rae and sigh. He's grinding on a cute brunette and showing no signs of slowing down. Meanwhile, I'm stifling a yawn.How much longer is he going to be?

Standing clear of the dance floor, I take out my phone.

Council of Bros

Is anyone up to join me to celebrate a big win with my client?

Drinks are on Luxe Partners!

I hit send and wait, ignoring the date of the last text in the thread. The group chat has been noticeably quiet since my brothers started settling down.

Our youngest brother, Adam, was actually the first of us married. Henry, the oldest and my twin, is engaged. Cory went from being the biggest player of all of us to practically living with his girl, Denise. And Damon, the middle child, is bringing a woman to Thanksgiving dinner for the first time ever. I've only met Kendra a few times, but she seems nice, and she definitely keeps my brother on his toes.

That just leaves me, the odd man out. But that's how I like it. All my brothers know I prefer to travel light.

Five minutes later, my phone buzzes.

Council of Bros

Damon:I assume since you used a phone to text that you know it's almost THREE IN THE FUCKING MORNING?!

I bark out a laugh. Maybe I should feel bad, but I miss my bros.

Council of Bros

And?

You're clearly awake, so why don't you come hang?

Damon sends me a middle finger emoji, and I laugh again. OK, so hanging out this late was a long shot.

When I survey the throng of dancers, I see Yong-rae has finally chosen a partner for the evening. He and the brunette are practically glued to each other, and quickly approaching the bounds of propriety.

I'm considering finding some company of my own when another yawn comes over me. I'm beat. I need to pay the tab, put Yong-rae and his "friend" in a cab, and crash. Production starts in less than two weeks.

Chapter three

Awa

September 2005

"Awa! Wait up!" someone calls out as I'm walking into the William Morris Agency information session. I almost scuff my good heels on the pavement when I realize it's Noah. He knows my name?

"Uh," I flounder, then take a deep breath and extend my hand. "Hi, Noah. What's up?"