Page 89 of Close to My Heart

I followed Dad to his truck. When he opened his door, he climbed inside.

“I’ll talk to her.”

Dad nodded, obviously pleased. “You do that.”

“I’ll let you know how it goes.” I wasn’t holding out hope that Sutton would return my feelings. Even if she felt the same, I was positive her mother was telling her all the reasons why a relationship with me wouldn’t work.

Especially now that everyone knew our marriage was a fraud.

I drove home and showered, deciding to cook some burgers on the grill to keep myself busy. I still needed to work out how to get Sutton alone for a conversation.

A text came through from an unknown number.

This is Sutton’s grandmother. I’d be delighted if you would come to breakfast tomorrow morning at the Rosesmith Estate at eight a.m. sharp.

Was that a question or a demand? Also, since when did she text?

I have some things we need to discuss.

I was curious what Mrs. Rosesmith could possibly have to say to me, and my stomach twisted at the idea that she’d tell me to stay away from Sutton. That I was the one who’d embarrassed the family with our fake marriage. She wanted Sutton with a man who had more money or status.

I added her number to my contacts.

I’ll be there.

Wonderful.

Her grandmother never failed to surprise me. I wondered if I’d misjudged her all these years.

I heard footsteps on the side of the house. Sometimes my brothers dropped in now that I had the outdoor kitchen.

Teddy held up the six-pack of beer. “I brought drinks.”

“You here for my world-famous burgers?” I asked, trying to keep my voice light. I wasn’t in the mood for company.

His lip curled in disgust. “I wouldn’t say they’re world famous. Edible at best.”

He set the bottles on the table, and I shook my head. “Who invited you anyway?”

Teddy grinned. “I invited myself. I heard that your arrangement went viral.”

I groaned. “Dad already talked to me.”

“So you don’t need anyone else to. I can relax and enjoy these burgers.”

I raised a brow in his direction. When had Teddy ever kept his mouth shut when he had an opinion on something?

I’d walked the straight and narrow after Mom died so his talks were usually reserved for Jameson and Daphne.

I always did what was expected of me, not wanting to worry Dad more when he was grieving. It was easier to emulate Teddy than to be like Jameson.

“I’m not in the mood for a lecture.”

Teddy sat heavily on the couch. “Good. I’m not going to give you one.”

I raised a brow. “I don’t believe you’re just here for dinner.”

He rubbed his stomach. “I’m starving.”

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