Blanche's POV
As Zain praised Nathan, I watched pride flicker across the younger man's face.
Nathan straightened up, touched his glass to Zain's, and spoke quietly, "Joanna can get a little wild sometimes—our family's spoiled her rotten.
Zain, if she ever causes you trouble, just say the word. I'll straighten her out."
Looking flustered, Joanna pulled at Nathan's sleeve.
"Stop it, Nathan! I'm not half as wild as you make me sound."
Nathan turned toward Joanna and ruffled her hair teasingly. "We've known each other since we were kids. You think I don't know exactly what you're like?"
Quick as lightning, Joanna slipped behind Zain, clutching his arm and giving it a playful shake, her voice turning whiny. "Zain, see how my brother picks on me!"
Zain smiled faintly and drew Joanna protectively behind him. "Nathan, Joanna's perfect. She's never caused me any problems."
Nathan chuckled. "You can't resist defending her."
