Page 31 of Phillip

“Enough that Mom would be pissed.”

Phillip couldn’t imagine how Aunt Claire would handle that, especially if it had happened years ago and was just coming out now. “And Nana would definitely know about a drunken poker game,” Phillip added. “But why would they meet in public?”

“If it’s true, maybe that’s why they’re meeting in public.”

“I don’t get it,” Phillip said.

“A public meeting would put out the word. Big-shot agents and lawyers have hit the street. A none-too-subtle way of showing the world that we’re always ready to protect our name.”

Phillip worked that possibility over. The family was far more likely to handle private business outside of the courts. A lack of transcripts and records had served them well over the years. That was the whisky business.

“Certainly would send a message.” Devlin shifted. “They’re wrapping up.”

The men in expensive suits with briefcases and portfolios left ahead of Uncle Graham, who paused and eyed both Phillip and Devlin. He held their gazes for a long moment, then left without saying hello.

“He saw us,” Phillip grumbled.

“You think?”

“Not even a quick goodbye.”

Devlin rubbed the back of his neck. “Something’s going on.”

Phillip nodded. “Now we sound like everyone else.”

Ashley returned, clutching her large purse and tentatively holding her phone. “Is everything okay?”

“Of course,” Devlin said as Phillip said, “Sure.”

She retook her seat, and Devlin stood up.

“Don’t leave on my account,” Ashley said.

“I’m not. I was only here to grab a to-go order.” He threw his thumb over his shoulder. “But we should meet up later. Hannah wants to visit a festival somewhere off I-95, about an hour away. We’d love for you both to join us.”

Heat crawled up Phillip’s neck. What was Devlin doing?

“Thank you, but I can’t,” Ashley answered.

He could’ve thanked her for handling Devlin’s unsubtle matchmaking invitation, but he wouldn’t have minded the time together. A festival wasn’t on his top-ten list of things to do. But hanging with Ashley when she couldn’t cling to the charities or car show was something he could get behind.

“Next time.” Devlin offered his goodbyes and left shortly with his order.

A quiet lull fell between them, and Phillip sensed that Ashley wished she’d said yes. She perked up, forced a smile into place, and produced her notebook. “This is what we have from The Laumet Society silent auction.” She turned the page. “This is the cash value insurance will provide for damaged goods.”

He pursed his lips, reviewing the damaged items. “They’re going to give you a check?”

“I think so.” Her gaze stayed on the notebook. “Replacement costs for most everything.”

“That’s great—Wait, what’s the problem?” he asked, reading her face.

“Nothing,” she said too quickly.

“Ashley?”

“Their agent mentioned…” She pulled her gaze up and winced. “They’ll likely try to recoup their loss.”

His forehead pinched. “What—Oh, they want me to pay.”

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