Lessons in Sin

by Pam Godwin

“I don’t like the way he’s staring at you.” He yanked his arm free. “I’m just gonna have a chat with him.” That was a terrible idea. My brother was cocky, overprotective, and mouthier than I was. “Just remember.” I jogged to stay at his side. “When you leave today, I have to stay here and deal with the fallout. He doesn’t respond well to threats or disrespect, so please, just…play nice?” We ran out of distance before he could respond. “Keaton Constantine.” He moved right up into Magnus’s face and grabbed my hand, hauling me against his side. “I’m Tinsley’s brother.” “I see the resemblance.” Magnus didn’t move. Not a flicker of surprise or irritation. They stood neck and neck, same heights, similar builds, equal intensity in their eye contact. “We may look alike.” Keaton squeezed my hand, preventing me from pulling away. “But I know you see a lot more when you look at her. A beautiful young thing in a Catholic schoolgirl uniform. I’m guessing you’ve never seen a girl as pretty as her come through here.” “Keaton.” With a growl, I yanked on my hand. “Stop.” He tightened his grip. “Just remember who her family is, who her brothers are. If you touch one hair on her head—” “No threats, Keaton.” I shoved at his rigid, immovable frame and turned to Magnus. “I told him not to threaten you.” “That’s okay. Maybe his warning will be more creative and stimulating than your mother’s.” Magnus tilted his head, regarding my brother with chilling indifference. “You were saying?” Keaton’s ey...