Page 129 of Scandalous

“Mr. Hampton got so wasted on scotch while at work at the stables and he let all the horses loose. One of Mrs. Hart’s corgis got caught in the stampede.”

“Oh no, was the dog okay?” Aurora frowns.

“The pup was fine. Honestly, the horses would have stayed in the stables if it wasn’t for the drunk fool firing a starting pistol.”

“He should be fired.” I shake my head. “What else?”

Mother continues to ramble and Aurora rests her head on my shoulder, listening to her intently. Every so often, she chimes in, asking questions or giving her opinion.

I don’t know how to describe what I’m feeling watching the two most influential women in my life interact. I honestly never thought I would have this, but now I do.

I’d do whatever it takes to keep this feeling.

“Ezra Morgan,” my mother scolds, getting my attention.

“Yes?”

“I told you he tuned us out. Men, I tell you.”

Aurora giggles at my mother’s sigh.

“I can feel your eye roll from here.”

My mother’s eyes narrow. “I do not roll my eyes. That’s how one gets forehead wrinkles, you know that.”

“How could I forget?”

Aurora buries her head between my shoulder and the back of my chair, silently laughing.

“Anyway, I told Aurora that next time she’s in London, you would bring her home. Apparently you had her here a week and didn’t tell anyone nor show her the city.”

“It was a short trip,” Aurora says, coming out from behind my shoulder. “He did take me for a delicious breakfast though.”

“I’m sure it was lovely, dear.” My mother smiles. “But nonetheless, to experience England, you have to visit the countryside.”

“Are we going home?” Santi says, leaning over the back of our chairs.

I tip the camera so my mother can see him.

“Hi Mum.” He smiles at my mother.

“Santiago, my boy,” she coos. “How’s my favorite son?”

“Couldn’t be better.” He winks. “What is this I hear about coming home?”

Aurora tips her head back and looks at Santi. “Apparently the next time I’m in the UK, you guys are to take me to the country estate. Elizabeth thinks I would love it there.”

Santi reaches down and rubs his thumb along her jaw. “I think she’s right. She has a kitchen that you would go gaga over as well.”

“You could film as much content as your heart desires.” My mother nods.

“Then it’s decided.” Before I can say anything else, the pilot comes over the intercom, letting us know we’re approaching our destination.

“Mother, I have to go. I’ll call soon.”

“Please do. You kids, be safe. Aurora, make sure you give all my boys a kiss for me, will you?”

“Of course.” Aurora smiles.

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