Page 9 of Stepbrothers

“It’s not ideal,” Jenny said with a sniff. “But then again, nothing ever is.”

Clarice bristled at the comment that was aimed at her. “And how are the preparations going?” she managed through gritted teeth.

“Very well.” Benjamin smiled. “The wedding planning team we’ve used have been brilliant, taken all the stress out of the Big Day. Which means we can sit and enjoy ourselves like this, just a week before.”

“I’m glad.” She held in a comment about money making life easy. It was clear the Talbots were swimming in it. The meal alone at Balthazar was likely the equivalent to a week of her rent.

“And are you ready, Clarice?” Jenny asked. “Did you pick up your dress?”

“Not yet. But I will.”

“They were expecting you last Thursday.”

“I got waylaid at work.”

Jenny’s mouth puckered.

“And where is work?” Hugh asked, opening a menu but not reading it.

“Coal Drops Yard.”

“Near King’s Cross?”

“That’s the one.”

“And what do you do there? No, don’t tell me, Google, that’s where their UK head office is, right?”

Clarice laughed. Her, work at Google? Not likely. “No, not Google. But near there.”

“Don’t hold us in suspense?” Parker folded his arms and leaned back. He looked pleasantly expectant, as if about to hear a great tale.

Clarice knew she’d disappoint him. “Grind ‘n’ Go.”

“Grind ‘n’ Go?” He tapped his fingers on his biceps. “Which is what exactly?”

“It’s not filthy which you’re probably thinking it is,” she said with a laugh. “It’s a coffee place, we do toasties and pastries too, but it’s mainly for commuters. No poles, nipple tassels or thongs in sight.”

“Clarice.” Jenny tutted loudly.

“I have to clarify, Mother, the name doesn’t exactly scream café.”

Hugh and Parker glanced at each other.

“Ladies, gentlemen, can I take your orders?” A waiter appeared at her side.

Quickly, Clarice scanned the menu while the others placed their orders. She opted for salmon with béchamel sauce and roasted tender stem broccoli.

“And how long have you worked at Grind ‘n’ Go?” Parker asked, extending the word ‘grind’ as a smile tugged his mouth.

“Longer than I’d planned.”

“It was supposed to be temporary,” Jenny said. “Three years is hardly temporary.”

“The right thing just hasn’t come along.” Clarice scowled. This was a common theme for an argument.

“And what would the right thing be?” Hugh asked.

“I’d like to work with children. Teaching. Primary school ideally.”

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