Whiskey and Salt
By Mere Rain
Harlan couldn’t have told anyone what he ate at his brother’s rehearsal dinner.
The food came with wine, which he also couldn’t describe except that there wasn’t enough of it to make talking to his family bearable.
As soon as the dessert plates had been cleared, Harlan stood and headed for the door. He didn’t make it six feet before his younger brother intercepted him, handing him a half-full champagne flute and clinking his own glass against it without paying any attention to Harlan’s glower.
“Congratulations,” Harlan said unenthusiastically.
“Thanks. About time it was your turn,” Braden said jovially.
“When Hell freezes over.” Harlan emptied his glass.
His brother laughed, as if Harlan had been joking. “That’s what they all say. But when you meet the
