Page 113 of The Seven Rings
She heard her mother’s voice, and Trey’s, and Owen’s, as she approached the kitchen.
“I know Sonya doesn’t tell me everything that goes on here. And maybe downplays some that she does. I understand why, and I’m doing my best to respect that. I also know she and Cleo are strong, smart women. But I need to know the two of you are looking out for them.”
“You can count on that,” Trey told her.
“It’s more than strong and smart,” Owen added. “There’s a lot here that’s on their side.”
“I’m holding on to that, too. I wonder if the both of you have considered moving in—I mean all the way—at least temporarily.”
“Mom!”
Winter winced, and went back to mixing her batter. “I’m sorry, baby. And part of me is standing here appalled I sound like I’m saying a woman needs a man to protect her. That’s not it. It’s the safety in numbers.” She shook her head. “It’s mostly that anyway.”
“Trey and Owen both have work, just like Cleo and I do. And they’re here, adding to our numbers, as much as they can be.”
“We’ve got voices,” Trey pointed out. “And I’ll use mine to say we’re here to look out for you.”
“I don’t—”
“And you look out for us,” he interrupted. “That’s how it works. That’s the deal, Sonya.”
“That’s not what she meant.”
“That’s what I heard,” Owen corrected. “Relax on it, cousin. We’re in this together. We’re not just here for the sex and free meals. Though they weigh heavy on the scale.”
Trey had to laugh. “That’s one way to put it. What Owen’s saying is we’re here for all of it. For you and Cleo, for the brides, for Collin. For the manor. And if it wasn’t for that other weight, we’d still be here.”
“I’m happy bearing that weight, but one way or another, we’re all in.”
Sonya gave up. “I need coffee.”
“I worry,” Winter told her. “Not every minute of every day, but I worry. When you have your own, you’ll know worry’s part of the package. And like the love, it never goes away.”
Winter gave her a kiss on the cheek. “Get your coffee.”
Trey waited until she’d taken the first couple of sips, then went to her, kissed her. “Good morning.”
She studied him. “Do you ever lose in court?”
“Unfortunately.”
“I don’t see how.”
Before Winter left that afternoon, Sonya asked her to take a walk with her outside.
“Am I in for a scolding?” Winter asked.
“No.”
“Good, because that remains my job.”
Sonya let out a laugh. “When’s the last time you scolded me?”
“Memory fails. It’s been a while. So, say what you need to. I’m here to listen.”
“I know that. And what I have to say? First, I hate that you worry at all. Part of the daughter package.”
“Understood.”
