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“I could have, and I thought about it, but Jesse and Rory are so busy with the band, and there wouldn’t be anyone for me to see the sights with.”
“See, that’s just it.” Mom opens a drawer, takes out a rag, and starts wiping the counter somewhat aggressively. “Brianna Steel made a promise to you, and she reneged.”
Ah…so it’s Brianna specifically she has a problem with. I place my hand on her arm. “Mom, this is a big family deal for the Steels.”
“What’s going on?”
“I don’t know. Dave didn’t know. No one knew. They were just told it was a big deal that they couldn’t talk about on the phone and they had to come home.”
Mom returns her focus to the counter. “Tell me more about Brianna Steel.”
“You know all about her.”
She looks up, her eyes pained. “Madeline, I only know I’ve seen you cry your eyes out over her and the other three.”
I cross my arms. “Yes, I always felt kind of left out, but they’re family, Mom. And I suppose now Brianna will be part of our family.”
She drops the rag, her eyes wide. “What?”
“Oh crap, Jesse didn’t tell you?”
“Apparently not.”
“He and Brianna are engaged.”
She bends down and grabs the rag, returning to the counter. “So I’m losing three of my children to that family.”
I shake my head. “Wait. You were thrilled about Callie and Rory.”
“Donny and Brock seem to truly love your sisters. But Brianna…”
“She loves Jesse, Mom. Believe me, I had my doubts at first too, but they’re the real thing.”
“She’s so young.”
“She’s my age. And it’s really no different from Callie and Rory marrying into the Steel family. It’s a great opportunity for Jesse as well. Three of your children are going to be rich beyond your wildest dreams.”
“Yes, I suppose so.” She sighs. “You know your father doesn’t like taking Steel money.”
“He’s not taking Steel money. Your children are marrying into it, and all three of them are head-over-heels in love. True love, Mom. This isn’t a business deal. When you see Jesse and Bree together, you’ll understand.”
“I won’t get that chance until Jesse and Rory return from the tour.”
“No, you won’t, but trust me on this.” I force Mom’s arm from the counter and give her a hug. “Like I said, I had doubts too, but they’re so in love. I’ve never seen Jesse like this.”
“Well,” she says, “at least I still have my Maddie.” She squeezes me in our embrace.
And again, I’m the odd one out.
I love my mother, but what I wouldn’t give to be marrying a Steel as well.
A few hours later, after Mom and I have a quick lunch, and Dad has assured me he doesn’t need my help with anything on the ranch, I retire to my room, grab my laptop, and check my email.
My phone rings. My heart flips when I see Dave’s name on the screen.
I force my voice a little lower than natural. I don’t want to sound like a giddy college girl.
“Hi, Dave.”
