Page 78 of Choosing Us

“Sure, so long as I’m in a relationship with Ryan. But I’m also not part of The Brigade, at least not yet.”

Savannah and Vivian both shake their heads. “Nope, if we say you’re one of ours, then that’s the end of the story. Are you new here? I’m quite persistent and stubborn when I make my mind up.” Savannah winks, and she’s only kidding so much—she actually means it. “I know Jack thinks he is the one who runs our sibling group, but that’s just because we let him think that.” Vivian nods in agreement as her sister continues, “I know your experience has included a lot of shitty people that let you down, but that’s not how we roll. We don’t want you around because you’re super smart, or whatever award you recently won, we want you around because of who you are.”

“If we’ve learned anything in the last few years, it’s that life is unpredictable. I mean, look at the last week—Tinsley could have died. No, no, if we find good people, we claim them as ours.”

“And Ryan?” I say, not exactly sure what I’m asking the sisters.

Savannah reaches over and squeezes my knee. “Oh, he definitely is playing for keeps, girl.”

I hope so.

CHAPTER FORTY-THREE

Savannah Smith-Harrington added Harlow Lane to The Brigade group chat

Savannah

Hear ye, hear ye. Vivian and I have officially declared that Harlow is in the Brigade now.

Vivian

It’s legit official now!

Jack

I fully support this addition.

Cami

I love the addition—more girl power too!

Theo

I love it. Welcome to the chaos, Harlow!

Liam

Welcome, Whiz Kid.

Walker

Worst kept secret ever.

Harlow

Hello, everyone. Thanks for the warm welcome!

Me

Should I have added her? Or Jack?

Finn

I thought she would have been added months ago!

Savannah

Sometimes good things take time, Finn!