My Brother's Girl

27| The Real Truth

"You what? When?"

His tone wasn't angry. It was more surprised than anything. I didn't blame him for that.

"It was the night I found the text messages, actually." When he opened his mouth to say something, I held up my hand to stop him.

"I have a lot to tell you, Logan." I took a deep breath. "I've been in love with Wyatt since we were teens."

His eyes went wide and I got to my feet. I started pacing around the room. I was too anxious to sit down right now.

"Prom night is the first time something happened. My date took me to a hotel and I realized he was trying to use me. So, I called Wyatt to come get me."

"I'm sorry, Amelia."

I glanced over at him. I knew he was talking about what happened with. My date. I looked away and continued my story.

"So Wyatt came right away. He comforted me. Then it just...happened."

"You slept together?"

I didn't look at him when I nodded. I remembered every detail about that night. How could I not? I knew I felt something for Wyatt before it happened. There was no more trying to convince myself I didn't love him afterwards.

"We didn't bring it up after it happened. I was scared. Maybe he was, too. Then at the graduation party, I told him I loved him."

Even I heard the pain in my voice at the memory.

"Can I tell you a secret?" 

I couldn't hide my smile. Telling secrets was something we've done for over a decade. It was our little quirk. "Yes, please." 

"I'm a little drunk, too." 

I covered my mouth as I laughed and drank the rest of my champagne. "I guess we both needed a little social lubricant today." He was standing next to me and I noticed his collar was folded. "Wyatt, your collar is messed up. Turn towards me." 

When he did, I straightened it and smoothed the edges. I felt his eyes on me and I glanced up at him. My hands stilled on his chest and I could feel his fast heartbeat. Now. This was my moment. I needed to tell him. 

He cupped the side of my face and stroked my cheek. My eyes fluttered closed as he leaned in to kiss me. Just as I felt his lips brush mine..."I love you." 

He pulled away from me as if I struck him and my hands fell to my sides. "What?" 

My voice was shaky and soft. "I-- I do, Wyatt. I love you." He didn't do anything but stare at me. I couldn't read his expression to tell what he was feeling or thinking. "Wyatt, please say something." 

"You don't know what you mean, Lia. You've been drinking." 

Okayyyyyy. Now, I was a little pissed. "I had one glass of champagne, Wyatt. Besides, I'm pretty sure I know what I feel." 

"Lia, you can't love me." 

Why did he sound so sure? Why was he acting like this? It wasn't like him at all. "Why not? Tell me." 

"Because we're friends. Best friends. It's not going to happen." 

I crossed my arms over my chest. "Then how come at prom you--"

"That was a mistake, Lia. Trust me on this." I remained silent and he added. "Besides, I'm going to UCLA for school." 

Panic coursed through me. "What did you say?"