Read Online I Promise by Adrianne Byrd - Free Book Online Page A

Malcolm had hurt her more than words could express.
    â€œDo you need me to see you home?”
    â€œI guess I do need a ride.” She looked at him. For brothers, Malcolm and Jordan were so similar, and yet, so different. “How about you? Are you all right?”
    Jordan slid his hands into his pockets and rocked on the balls of his feet. “I have to admit—this hasn’t been my weekend. As far as my brother is concerned, I’m sure it’s just the alcohol that’s talking right now. In the morning I suspect that he’ll be ready to apologize to you.”
    Christian glanced to where Malcolm and Alex had disappeared. “I hope you’re right. I’ve never seen him like this before.”
    â€œWell, take it from me. He’ll regret everything in the morning.”
    Relieved, Christian smiled.
    â€œSince this is your last night here, how about I treat you to a cup of coffee? There’s a Starbucks around the corner.”
    â€œI don’t know. Maybe I should be getting home. I have an early flight in the morning.”
    Jordan nodded. “I understand.” He draped his arm around her shoulder.
    Such a familiar action took Christian by surprise. His embrace comforted her, transforming the thoughtful gesture into something more intimate. How was it that she felt so comfortable around him, so at home?
    She shivered, but not because of the night’s cool breeze. And there was peace. Strange, that she would feel that way now. The past two years could only be described as pure hell. His arms tightened, and a smile curved her lips. After tomorrow, she would never see him again. The thought saddened her. Tomorrow, she’d be heading home. She found solace in that and yet…
    â€œYou know,” she said, looking up at him. “I think I will have that cup of coffee.”
    Â 
    Alex glanced at Malcolm as they rode in a comfortable silence. By the time she drove onto the Williams’ estate, Malcolm had pulled himself out of his deep reverie.
    â€œI made a fool out of myself, didn’t I?”
    Alex smiled. “I would say so.”
    Malcolm laughed and shook his head. “I was afraid of that.”
    â€œYou never could hold your alcohol.” Rolling to a stop, she cut the engine and turned toward him. “Mind if I ask you what came over you?”
    He leaned his head back against the headrest. “I don’t know. It was everything, I guess. I thought I loved her.”
    His words stabbed her heart, but she managed to keep a brave face. She turned in the deep bucket seat and stared straight ahead.
    â€œThank you, Alex.”
    She looked back at him. “For what?”
    â€œFor always being there. You’re a great friend.” He smiled tenderly at her.
    She smiled back, but she wanted to scream. Why couldn’t he see how she truly felt? Why couldn’t she take the chance and tell him?
    â€œRemember how we met?” he asked.
    She nodded. How could she ever forget? “I was auditioning to model for one of Opulence’s spring jewelry lines.” She laughed. “Your father wasn’t too impressed with me.”
    â€œCome on, he loved you.”
    Alex frowned.
    â€œIt’s true.” He held up his hands. “It was my mother who didn’t want to hire you.”
    â€œYour mother is a trip.” She shook her head. “What’s her problem anyway?”
    â€œHey, now. My mom always has the best intentions.”
    â€œYeah, and I hear the road to hell is paved with them.”
    â€œAre you trying to talk about my momma?”
    She crossed her arms and fixed him with a what-do-you-think look.
    â€œAll right, all right. She can be a little tough on people, but if you ever get the chance to really get to know her…well, she can…” He gave up. “She’s my mother, I love her, next subject.”
    Alex laughed and Malcolm grinned.
    â€œYou know, I’m here if you ever