Page 10 of Flynn

"Glen must have been blind." A rather dull banker murmured as he sipped pricey champagne and watched the couple venture further into the room. "With an exquisite creature like that, how could he possibly prefer the company of a man?"

"Unless she was cold in bed-" Another snickered, unaware that Flynn had to curb the instinct to ram his fist down the bastard's throat.

"She is excellent in the courtroom." Another murmured. "I have seen her in action, and she takes no prisoners."

"Gentlemen," Liam interrupted smoothly, his expression urbane as he smiled at the group. He had seen the icy displeasure on Flynn's face and was very sensibly trying to avoid a scene. "The speech is about to begin. Why don't we retire to the front so we don't miss our cues?"

"Ah, yes."

"We will be right behind you." Touching a restraining hand on Flynn's immaculate black jacket, he waited until the crowd had dispersed. "They are vicious and narrow-minded and not worth making a scene over." Putting down his champagne glass, Liam gave him a curious glance. "Friend of yours?"

"No." Flynn bit out. "I just hate it when men gossip."

"That's what the rich and entitled do best," Liam told him with a grin. "We have a lot of money, and we get bored, so we feed off people's lives and live for any bad thing that happens. It prevents us from focusing too much on our own aimless lives."

Switching his amber eyes to his friend, he gave the man a mocking look. "Speaking from experience?"

Liam's grin widened. "Before I met my beloved wife, I would have said yes. Now, I am the soul of discretion." His gaze wandered over to the woman who was by now surrounded by several others. "She is holding up well."

"Why shouldn't that be the case?" Flynn retorted, his eyes swinging back to Ryleigh. "Ritchie was not man enough for her anyway. He proved it by keeping his other life a secret to cloak it in respectability. She is better off."

Liam agreed. "Although some might say that he is not feeling the bitter taste of the breakup. He is still a sitting senator, and people are determined to give him a shot at the Oval Office."

"Not if I have anything to say about it.'

The resolute tone in his friend's voice had Liam eyeing him curiously. "I thought you were not a friend of the young lady."

"She is a friend of my mother's." Flynn silently cursed himself for revealing too much. Liam was a perfect friend, but he was also a notorious gossip. But from the speculative look on the man's face, he knew he was not buying any of it. Seeking a quick diversion, he sighed silently in relief when he saw his mother approaching them.

"Saved by the bell," Liam told him wryly, eyes gleaming. "To be continued."

"Hi, Liam," Julia smiled at him charmingly. "Could you give us a minute?"

"Of course." Taking her hand in his, he kissed it lavishly before taking his leave.

Flynn noticed in amusement at the blush staining her porcelain cheeks. He threw her a knowing look, laughter curving his lips.

"He is such a charmer." She murmured, brushing her hands over her slender hips.

"I wouldn't know." His amber eyes searched for her lovely face. "What is it?"

"I spoke to Ryleigh."

"And?" He was not aware he was holding his breath until the warmth of her smile beamed at him. "She has agreed."

"Just like that?"

Julia nodded, amber eyes sparkling. "Oh darling, I am so happy."

His head lifted to stare at the woman having an animated conversation with the DA. Her escort was hovering next to her, one hand draped around her shoulders. Flynn knew who the man was, of course. He had done his research and knew they were excellent friends and nothing more.

"Darling?"

Tearing his eyes off her, he gave his mother his attention.

"Yes?"

"Are you happy?"

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