Page 75 of Illicit Heir

"Well, that's not how things work around here." I go over and grab her purse out of the cabinet. Then I put my arm around her back and move her through the pub, announcing, "Time to go."

Ronin arches his eyebrows when we get near him.

"Make sure Mum gets in her car safely," I order him.

"You're leaving so soon?" he questions.

She glances at me again, admitting, "Lauren's insisting I take the night off."

I chirp, "Because I'm going to take tomorrow night off. Now, have a nice night, Mum. Rest up so ya can take care of this place tomorrow."

She gives me another look, then finally caves and kisses me on the cheek. She says, "Okay, text me if things get too crazy and ya need extra help."

"I won't," I practically sing, beaming at her. But it's not false enthusiasm. Knowing she won't be here is one less worry for me. I point to the door, demanding, "Now go."

She hesitates one last time and then leaves.

I sigh in relief, then resume my pub duties. I run around filling drinks, checking my phone occasionally, and watching my cousins, debating about what to do next.

Fifteen minutes pass and Mum texts me.

Mum: I'm home.

Me: Let me see a selfie.

Mum: Selfie? Since when do I take selfies?

Me: Just humor me.

Mum: Lauren, is something going on that you're not telling me? This is a weird request, even from ya.

I close my eyes and take a deep breath. Then I reply.

Me: No. I just want to see your beautiful face.

She sends me a picture of her in the kitchen, and I relax.

Me: Looking good, Mum. Rest up for tomorrow night.

Mum: Okay, but I'm here if ya need me to come back in and help.

Me: I won't. Enjoy your night.

I put my phone back in my pocket and decide my next move. I order my cousins into the kitchen and tell Bradan again, "Go take a smoke break."

He wrinkles his forehead. "Another one?"

I question, "Do ya suddenly not like your cigarettes?"

He chuckles. "Nope. Still love them."

"Then ya better go now before we're too busy for ya to have one."

He nods. "Aye. You're right. I shouldn't complain, should I?"

"No, ya shouldn't."

He grabs his pack of cigarettes and disappears out the door.

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