Page 103 of Allegiant

“It did,” I say, finally announcing my presence. “And we love to remind him of it as often as possible. Especially as they were handmade from Italian leather.”

Rowan lights up at the sight of me, his cheeks pinkening. “I’ll have to remember that.”

I join him at the kitchen island, planting a kiss on his temple. “Whatcha doing?”

“Making cookies for rehearsal.”

I reach to pinch a bit, but he slaps the back of my hand lightly.

“Stop that. It’s not cooked. You’ll make yourself sick.”

“He’s very serious about that,” Harley says mournfully. “I’ve had to resort to stealing the chocolate chips instead.”

Rowan gives a mock gasp, his hand flying to his chest. “You thief! That’s where they went.”

“Yep.” Harley shakes the bag at him cheekily. Rowan tries to swipe it from him, but thanks to the few inches my brother has on him, it’s held out of his reach.

Rowan squeaks indignantly, jumping high with those long legs of his as he tries to grab them.

I watch them for a moment, knowing I have a ridiculous smile on my face. I can’t help it. Seeing Rowan fitting in with my family so well gives me the same feeling I have when I dance.

Pure, uncomplicated joy.

I’m about to intercede on Rowan’s behalf when a frosty voice comes from the doorway. “What the fuck is happening here?”

The two of them come to an abrupt halt, Harley’s arm stretched high, Rowan’s hands wrapped around his bicep.

“Jules…” Harley pales as he looks at the chef. “I didn’t think you were coming in today.”

“I can see that.” My brow rises at the ice in Jules’s expression. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him look so cold…especially not at Harley.

Rowan clears his throat, removing his hands from my brother and returning to my side. He smiles at Jules, but I know it’s not one of his real ones. This one screams awkwardness, which is apt.

Whatever is happening right now feels fucking awkward.

Jules doesn’t notice. He’s too busy glaring at Harley. Harley, who’s staring back with a yearning so obvious I wonder how he stands it.

“Hope you don’t mind us using your kitchen,” Rowan says brightly. “I promised my friends I’d make cookies. Harley offered to help.”

“So I see,” Jules says, still not looking away from Harley. “I am easily replaced, apparently.”

Listen, I get that jealousy is a funny thing, but I wasn’t jealous watching the two of them horse around. I was happy. Fucking delighted that Rowan felt comfortable enough with Harley to do so.

He’s been living in darkness for too long. Anything that gives him sunshine is good with me.

Jules, though, he’s jealous. Which is stupid, because I’m literally standing right here. I’m the one Rowan is snuggling into.

And Jules is who Harley can’t take his eyes off of. Always has been Jules for my brother. The moment Jules stepped foot in this house, he was head over heels.

Harley takes a step forward, his throat bobbing. “Jules, can we talk?”

“Non.” Jules walks around the island, gathering up dirty pans and bowls. “If you’re all done, I’ll clean up and start preparing dinner.”

“I can clean up. I just need to put them in the oven,” Rowan says quietly. “I’m sorry, Jules. We’ll be out of your way now.”

Harley’s jaw is tense as he watches Jules continue to clean with jerky movements. He opens his mouth like he’s going to say something, but then shakes his head and walks straight out of the kitchen.

Jules pretends not to notice, but as soon as Harley’s out of sight, his shoulders slump. He ducks his head low, like he’s hoping no one will notice the obvious distress on his face.