Step Brother: Off Limits Read Online Free Page A

to say about Garrett’s sharp criticism of me, but I did know I didn’t want to get up any earlier. “Yoga? I’m already killing myself in your fucking bootcamp.”
    “Variety, my dear Tatum. It’s good for you.”
    He left the house, probably on his way to his gym to torture someone else besides me for a change, and I stood in the kitchen, trying to wrap my head around what he’d said to me. I didn’t want to think about whether I’d been unrealistic and overly demanding. I didn’t want to think about Reed or the fact that the man I’d been falling in love with was halfway across the world—all because I’d acted like a petulant child.
    I think part of me knew Garrett was right, but I certainly didn’t want to dwell on it. Assuming Garrett was going to roust me out of bed early in the morning, I took refuge the only way I could think of—in bed with a Netflix marathon and a pint of ice cream.
    When Garrett knocked on my door in the morning, I felt better than I had in a while. I’d slept well, and I realized there was some truth in what he’d said. I did need to move on, and I figured a new class might be a step in the right direction.
    The yoga class actually helped me clear my mind, and I found myself better prepared for a challenging day at work. We took depositions in the biggest case I’d been assigned to yet, and not only was I well prepared with all the information the attorney in charge needed, but I was also able to point out an inconsistency that he’d missed between the day’s testimony and the job application of the person in question. The junior partner who’d listened while I explained the discrepancy told my boss I’d done exceptional work.
    I left the office feeling positive and strong—the first time I’d felt that way since those terrible pictures of me had come out. The feeling lasted until I pulled up in front of my dad’s house.
    “Tatum, darling, we’re so glad you could make it.” Tina, dripping in diamonds, turned to the valet they had hired for the evening. “Paul, please pull Tatum’s car around to the back. We’re trying to cultivate an aura of luxury out in front here.”
    I’m sure my eyes looked like saucers as I handed my keys to the valet. “Sorry to spoil the illusion, Tina. I’ve been so busy at work, I haven’t gotten around to buying a new car yet.”
    “Don’t worry about it, Tatum. I’m sure you’ll find something more appropriate for the daughter of our future mayor soon enough.” She put her hand through my arm as she led me inside. “I’ve just found that people are more willing to part with their money if they believe you don’t actually need it.” Her fake laugh echoed throughout the polished marble entryway. “You look lovely, by the way. I’m so glad to see you’ve found a better hair stylist. You’re such a pretty girl, it was a shame your hair was so … well … frumpy. A vast improvement, my dear.”
    “Um, thanks, I think.” I followed her through the dining room and into the enormous living room. “Wow, the lights in the pool look awesome.” Hundreds of little lights danced on the surface of the freeform in-ground pool out back, and portable heaters were positioned to warm up the terrace on an evening that would have felt warm to anyone except Las Vegas natives.
    “Hm.” Tina looked a little irritated. “I wanted to handle the decorations myself—you know how talented I am—but your father insisted we hire a professional. I thought the lights were tacky, personally, but I guess there’s no accounting for taste.”
    “They’re really lovely,” I said, wondering what atrocities Tina would have committed in the name of being festive. “Where’s Dad?”
    “He’s in his study with one of the new guys on the campaign. Actually, he wants you to meet Stanford. He’s about your age, and he’s been such a huge help with coordinating everything. Why don’t you go in and let Donald know you’re here.”
    Thrilled to