Page 28 of Stepbrothers

“Not really, not then, because I didn’t understand. But growing up without him, yes, that was hard.” She checked to see where her mother was—not that she’d be able to overhear, the music was loud. “What was harder, or is harder, is my mother’s hobby of finding new husbands.”

“My father is her fourth, right?”

“Indeed. But let’s not be doom and gloom. Fourth time lucky, right?”

“I think my father feels lucky. She’s a beautiful woman. He won’t let their marriage go wrong without a fight.”

“I hope you’re right.”

“I usually am.”

“And are you also usually such a cocky son-of-a—”

“Clarice. Hugh. Nice to see you getting to know each other, though I dare say there will be plenty of family dinners, holidays, and outings going forward.” Benjamin beamed at them. He was holding Jenny close. “How are you enjoying the music?”

“It’s great.” Clarice smiled. “Though I’m getting ready for a drink. It’s warm in here.”

“Me, too,” her mother said. “Come on. There’s champagne with our name on it.” She slipped from Benjamin’s embrace and linked arms with Clarice. “I will see you in a moment, dear husband.”

“Yes, of course, dear wife.” Benjamin was still smiling broadly.

Clarice was bustled away toward the bar.

“How are you, sweetheart? You look quite flushed.”

“I’m fine. Just thirsty.”

“We can solve that.”

“What can I get you, ladies?” Parker suddenly appeared at Clarice’s side.

“Bubbles, please.” Her mother giggled. “Because it’s a red-letter day.”

“Coming right up, Jenny.” Parker waved to the barman, who upon seeing it was the bride waiting for a drink served them immediately.

“Where did you go?” Jenny asked Clarice. “That old song, ‘Love Shack’ came on. You like that.”

“Ah yes, I do.” Clarice paused. “I went to answer a call. From Wendy. She passes on her congratulations.”

“Oh, that’s sweet of her.” Jenny took the flute Parker passed her. “Thank you.” After taking a sip she said, “Did you also have a call to take, Parker?”

“I beg your pardon?” He raised his eyebrows.

“I noticed you’d gone, too. And Hugh.”

“Ah well.” He tapped the side of his nose. “Some things are best kept secret.”

Clarice knocked back a mouthful of champagne. It went down the wrong way, and she spluttered.Secret. Some things are best kept secret.He wasn’t bloody kidding. There was no way he was going to tell Jenny where he’d really been and what he’d been doing with her daughter…was he?

“You okay?” Parker asked, patting her back.

Clarice nodded and pressed her hand to her chest. “Yes.” She cleared her throat and stared up at him. “I’m fine. Thank you.”

His eyes flashed with a mixture of concern and amusement.

“Whatever do you mean, Parker?” her mother asked after apparently satisfying herself that Clarice was breathing. “About a secret?”

“It’s your special day, Mrs. Talbot, there are still surprises in store. They take organizing.”

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