Nicholas “You are so obvious, brother,” Julian said. “It’s a miracle the camera crews haven’t yet picked up on your pining.” If I wasn’t so in control of my emotions, I would have punched him. Not just for his wrongful accusation about my feelings regarding Piper – I was not pining – but because of his persistence in bringing her down with him. I didn’t punch him, but it was a near thing. I settled instead for bringing myself to my full height and growling at him. I was only two inches taller than him, but I made the most of it now. “Maybe you don’t care about Piper’s reputation, but I do. Disappearing with her for hours does not improve her image with our family or the people.” “Piper knew exactly what she was doing.” Julian’s smirk added an edge. “Trust me, she’s a pro.” My han