Chapter 244
Isabella’s hand hung in the air, frozen. She turned to Bruce, her eyes wide, disbelief all over her face. “What did you just say? She’s my sister-in-law p>
Bruce stepped over to Arianna, automatically slipping in front of her like he was shielding her. He frowned, clearly annoyed. “Do I look like I’m joking? Why couldn’t she be your sister-in-law? Show her some respect from now on p>
Isabella just stared, completely thrown off. Words caught in her throat.
Arianna looked at Bruce, stunned. She never would have expected him to stand up for her, especially at a moment like this. She’d been cold to him before, mostly because he was Alexander Ramirez’s brother and she’d lumped all that resentment together. Was he really willing to look past it and help her anyway?
She opened her mouth, wanting to say something, but everything felt so sudden and out of control, she didn’t know where to start.
Bruce glanced over his shoulder at her, giving her a look that somehow made her feel safe. “You’re alright?” he said quietly. “My sister’s got a temper, just try to bear with her p>
Arianna didn’t know what to say.
Off to the side, Steven watched the way Bruce stepped in between them, the way Arianna seemed to melt into that protection. It hit him hard, sharp and painful. He clenched his fists so tight his nails bit into his skin. Regret and bitterness flooded his eyes.
Arianna had been his family’s pick for him, a totally arranged thing. He’d liked almost everything about her she was beautiful, smart, had a good job-but she never really had that spark he was looking for. She wasn’t seductive like Melissa or connected like Isabella. He’d tried to get close, tried flirting, but she never seemed to get it. She wasn’t his type, but honestly, she would have made a great wife.
He knew he could never actually marry Isabella-she just used him for fun and, even after she dumped him, wouldn’t let anyone else near him. He could admit Arianna had always treated him well, but he’d never really appreciated her. Now, seeing her standing there with Bruce, who was in a whole different league, he suddenly felt a wave of regret. He shouldn’t have let Isabella push him into dumping Arianna.
Isabella, meanwhile, was still trying to make sense of it all. She stepped
closer, pointing at Arianna. “You’ve t
never admitted you were with anyone before. Why are you suddenly calling her your girlfriend Are you just making this up to bail her out p>
Bruce let out a short laugh. “You really think you know everything about my life? Arianna and I have been together for a while. We just kept it private p>
He slid his arm around Arianna’s shoulders, pulling her in a little tighter.
Arianna’s cheeks went pink. She almost tried to pull away, but Bruce’s hold was steady, and for some reason, she didn’t want to fight it. She glanced up at him, feeling a weird mix of guilt and gratitude.
“Let’s just leave it for today, Isabella. You didn’t know, so I won’t hold it against you,” Bruce said, his tone firm. “But if you give Arianna trouble again, I won’t let it go so easily p>
Isabella bit down on her lip, still
angry, but Bruce was her brother. He
spoiled her, but when he was
serious, she knew better than to
argue She shot Arianna a glare
before stomping back to her seat.
Around them, people quickly dropped their curious looks,
pretending they hadn’t been watching.
Bruce took Arianna’s hand and led her outside.
The night air was cool against her skin. As soon as they stepped out, Arianna slipped her hand free, awkward. “Thank you,” she said softly.
Bruce seemed a little embarrassed. He waved it off. “I just happened to be there. Really, Isabella was out of line. I should be the one apologizing. Don’t take what I said back there seriously about you being my girlfriend p>
Arianna shook her head. “I know you only said it to help me p>
Bruce shoved his hands in his pockets, hesitated, then looked at her. “Was it hard? Seeing Steven with my sister p>