Page 137 of Summer After Summer

“Surprise?”

“We were planning a going-away party.”

I frown. “Who’s going away?”

“For the family. You know, at the house.”

“Oh.”

Ann tilts her head to the side. “I thought it would be good for Charlotte. Saying a formal goodbye, having everyone over. Maybe for you and Sophie too.”

“Doesn’t that sound good?” Wes says.

“It sounds sad.”

“We don’t have to do it.”

“No, no … I’m sure everyone will like it, including William.” I sit down at the table. “What day were you thinking?”

Wes covers my hand with his. “The day of the transfer. Ann asked Fred, and he doesn’t mind, even though the house will be his then, technically.”

“Four weeks from now?”

Ann smiles. “The estate sale is that day too, yes?”

“That’s right.” I fiddle with the spoon in my place setting. “A big day.”

“It is. You’ve got the documents for the sale?”

“I … I haven’t checked yet.”

“Plenty of time.” Ann stands. “I’m going to go. I’ll be in touch, Olivia. Wes.” She nods and leaves.

I watch her walk away, feeling off and jealous. I pull my hand away from Wes.

“What’s wrong?” he says.

“Nothing.”

“Doesn’t feel like nothing.”

I turn back to him. “I’m just tired.”

He raises an eyebrow. “Bad night’s sleep?”

“Yeah, I guess.”

“Was the rest of the winery not up to standard?”

“What?”

“The beds not comfortable?”

I fold my hands on the table. “Is there something you want to ask me?”

“Is there something to ask?”

“Nothing happened.”

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