"Big sister-in-law?" Tony Lombardi blinked before chuckling. "Just call her sister-in-law, no need for the 'big'." He scratched his head. "I told her about you. Knowing you're busy, she asked me to invite you for lunch tomorrow."

He'd deliberately come to Studio 54 tonight—Saturday was perfect. First, to deliver the invitation. Second, to remind Jenna not to slip up in front of his wife.

Jenna Roland hesitated. "Tony, my brother just got discharged from the hospital. I need to take care of him. I really can't make it."

"You have a brother?" His brows furrowed.

"Yeah. Milo Roland. He's a high school sophomore."

"What happened?"

"He got into a fight defending me at school. Fractured ribs. Seven days in the hospital." She sighed. "I can't leave him alone."

Tony's temper flared at the mention of Milo's injuries. "Which bastard dared lay hands on my brother? Give me a name. I'll break his damn arm!"

Jenna hadn't expected this reaction. Or that Tony would claim Milo as his own.

"Tony, he's still in school. The other kid already apologized and paid compensation. Let it go."

"Damn it!" He gritted his teeth. "If it happens again, you call me immediately. I'll end him."

Jenna's eyes crinkled into crescents as she smiled. "Thank you. No one else stands up for us like you do."

He waved a hand, expression solemn. "Always wanted a little sister, but my parents failed me. Now that I've got you, you're family. Of course I'll protect you."

Suddenly, Jenna hugged him. He stiffened before returning the embrace, patting her shoulder with rough affection.

"Bring your brother tomorrow," he said when they parted. "My wife's a great cook. Let him try her food."

With the offer extended like this, refusal was impossible. "Alright."

Tony poured her a glass of water. "No more drinking when you're with me."

"Huh?" She froze.

"How much do you down entertaining clients? It's bad for you. Cut back when you can."

"Thanks, Tony." She raised the water glass like a toast, smiling brilliantly.

Her phone buzzed—a text from Stella Laurent. Tony glimpsed the screen and nudged her. "Go on. Don't worry about me."

"I'll come back after handling this."

"Go." His proud gaze followed her exit. Such a beautiful, capable little sister—his buddies would be green with envy.

Outside VIP Room 888, Jenna took a deep breath and pushed the door open.