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But the call never came.
    And then, right when I thought I was over everything, the universe decided to show me just what a bitch she can be and threw Xavier back into my life. And every day for almost two months, I’ve had to live what could have been my life, the whole time taking care of the woman who is filling the role that should have been mine. And wouldn’t you know it? As much as I didn’t want to like Alyssa, I now find myself preparing for the death of the woman I’ve come to love as a friend.
    “Braydon, while I appreciate that you’re trying to protect your family, I can assure you that you don’t know the first thing about what’s happened in the past or what’s happening now.” I rise on my toes so I’m looking directly into his eyes. “Before you jump to conclusions about my intentions when it comes to your brother, you might want to think about what I went to school for.”
    I can see the moment understanding registers in Braydon’s bright blue eyes. His face falls as he tries to find a way to take back the hatred he was lobbing at me. “Melanie, I’m a big enough man that I will apologize for jumping to conclusions. Xavier and Jacob have been through so much and I know it’s only going to get worse.” The change in his demeanor would be laughable if I wasn’t so offended. “I’m sorry.”
    Before I can respond, the front door opens and I turn to see a very confused Alyssa staring at us, her blanket wrapped tightly around her body. “What in the world are you two doing outside? Melanie, get your ass in here. I can’t have my personal assistant getting sick on me.” She gives me a quick wink as Braydon stares between the two of us.
    I know how you’re feeling, Braydon. The whole situation surpassed weird about six weeks ago.
    “So, I see you’ve met Xavier’s brother,” Alyssa says as she curls onto the couch. I hit the ignition button on the gas fireplace, hoping to keep the room warm enough for her. “I know you said you don’t date, but seriously, Mel, you should give this one a shot. I know I would have if I hadn’t wound up with Xavier.”
    I purse my lips tightly, taking a few cleansing breaths before turning around. When I do, I bu rst out laughing at the look of horror on his face. “Gee, Braydon,” I laugh. “I know I’m no Gisele, but I didn’t think I was so horrific that the concept of dating me would make you physically ill.”
    “I…it’s not…” It’s fun watching him stumble over his words after that little bullshit speech of his. “Don’t get me wrong, you’re a beautiful girl, but I’m sure we have nothing in common. I mean, look at you, you work as a home health nurse, taking care of sick people all day. I’m not proud to say it, but I hate being around anyone who has so much as a cold.”
    “Damn, Bradyon!” Alyssa squeals. “Keep talking and I’m pretty sure that hole you’re digging will reach China before too long.”
    “Dammit, Al, you know what I’m saying,” Braydon huffs. His cheeks are an adorable shade of red with embarrassment. “Fuck, it’s like there are two of you now!”
    Braydon storms out of the living room before making any more of an ass of himself. I glance at my watch when I hear the jars clanking in the fridge as he slams the door closed, his first beer of the day in hand. I know it’s his first because, unless things have changed, Braydon Ross will not drink before noon and it’s just now five after twelve.
    “Where’s Xavier?” he asks, leaning against the breakfast bar.
    “He had some things to do with Jacob this morning. They’ll be back soon,” I inform him as I turn down the hall to get Alyssa’s medication. Braydon follows me, closing Alyssa’s bedroom door quietly behind him. I should have known our conversation wasn’t done.
    “Okay, well that was weird,” Braydon sighs. “I guess it’s safe to say she doesn’t know about you and Xavier?”
    “No,” I whisper loudly, my eyes nearly ready