Page 92 of Always Us

I hear Katherine’s voice behind me. I didn’t even know she was there. “Before we continue, Garret would like to say a few words.”

I turn and see the smirk on her face and almost punch her. She knows I don’t want to say anything.

I glance at my dad, who has no expression at all, which is typical for him. Another Kensington rule. Don’t show emotion if it will reflect poorly on the family. Use it only as needed, when it works to your advantage.

“Garret, go ahead,” Katherine says.

Have I said how much I hate Katherine? After this little stunt, I might just have to release one of those videos.

I face the crowd of people. “Although I had hoped to say a few words about my grandfather tonight, the tragedy of his passing is still too fresh in my mind. Therefore I am unable to do so. I’m sure you understand.”

“Of course, son.” My dad nods at me, then turns toward the guests. “Again, I would like to thank everyone for coming. Please continue as you were. We ask that you say your final goodbyes at eight tonight so that we may spend time together as a family.”

Katherine races off to talk to someone before I can yell at her. I wouldn’t anyway. I’m done fighting with her. She’ll be out of my life soon enough.

Everyone goes back to their conversations, the noise level in the room slowly rising.

My dad takes me aside. “Thank you, Garret. I’m sorry about Katherine. I didn’t know she was planning that.”

“It’s Katherine. It’s not that surprising.” I check that no one’s around us, then say, “I need to talk to you about something. It’s important. It can’t wait.”

I should’ve told him this last weekend when I was here, but with everything going on I wasn’t even thinking about it.

My dad lowers his voice. “What is this about?”

“Aston Hanniford.”

He smiles, but only to cover up the fact that we’re talking about something we shouldn’t be. “Smile, Garret.”

I smile, but I’m sure it looks fake.

“I already know about it,” he says. “We’ll discuss it later.”

He walks off and I go over to Jade, who’s talking with Kelly. Kiefer got whisked away by some older man I’ve never seen before. Kelly doesn’t know most of the people here so we stay there and keep her company.

A half hour later I hear some commotion in the foyer. Jade and Kelly are talking and don’t notice.

“I’ll be right back,” I say to Jade.

She nods.

I pass by the other guests, who have now migrated to the appetizer tables and the bar. As I approach the foyer I hear my dad say, “I most certainly did not invite you! You need to leave.”

I go around the corner and see my dad standing there with Roth. The foyer is empty except for the two of them.

“Garret.” Roth saw me. Shit. I was just getting ready to turn around.

“Garret, go upstairs,” my dad orders.

“Pearce, I came to express my condolences,” Roth says. “That would extend to your son as well.” He comes up to me. “I’m sorry for your loss. Your grandfather was an extraordinary man. He’ll be greatly missed.”

I glance at my dad. “As my father said, I need to go upstairs and check on Lilly. I was just heading up there now.”

“Very well, then.” Roth grins. “We’ll be seeing you soon, Garret.”

What the fuck does that mean?

My dad comes up behind Roth and grabs his arm. “In my office! Now!”

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