Page 54 of DeLucas After Dark

Chuckling, he pulls out of the circular drive and down the long driveway. “Look at today like a new opportunity to win her parents over.”

“Why does everyone assume that my troubles have to do with Piper’s parents?”

“Because they do. We all know that nothing can stop you from doing whatever you want, and if anyone gets in your way…so help them, God,” Gino says, peering at me in the rearview mirror.

“Don’t know why the Chambers don’t understand that,” I grumble.

I can see the smile Gino’s biting back, but he lifts an eyebrow and suggests, “Maybe because they’re her parents?”

“Yay, me.”

“It’s one breakfast. They either agree to your suggestions or disagree.”

“Yeah, and if they agree, then I’ll be stuck with them through the holidays.”

“But isn’t that what you want?”

“No,” I grunt.

Gino shakes his head as if I’m not making sense. Maybe to some degree, I’m not because I don’t do this: chase other people and kiss their ass.

“I want Piper to be happy and have what her heart desires this Christmas. And though she doesn’t say it, I know it’s to be with her family.”

“Except they don’t accept you.”

“Right.”

“Oh, I’m sure you’ll win them over with your charming and witty ways, sir,” he says, glancing at me in the mirror.

I can see him smirking at my ever-present scowl.

“The fuck are you so goddamn happy about today?”

“Found out I’m about to be a father next year.”

Leaning forward, I grip his shoulder and squeeze. “Fucking congrats, man!”

“Thanks,” he says, smiling, as I settle back into my seat, scowl firmly fixed in place.

Gino leaves me to stew in silence throughout the remainder of our ride to Park 75 at the Four Seasons.

I spot Piper’s parents, Pamela and Grant Chambers, sitting at the rear of the dining room near an exit sign. Looking like they’re ready to bolt.

“Mr. and Mrs. Chambers,” I greet as I take my seat, adjusting my cufflinks.

Mrs. Chambers doesn’t speak, but Mr. Chambers does.

“I had a feeling it might be you,” he grumbles.

Nora lied and told the Chambers that she had some information about me that she thought they needed to know. She’d also said it was information that Piper wasn’t privy to and she didn’t feel comfortable sharing over the phone.

Nora had made the right number of innuendos about my family’s business to get the Chambers’ attention.

I settle back in my seat as I cross my ankle over my knee. “If you hadn’t ignored my calls, I wouldn’t resort to drastic measures. I would assume that anything concerning Piper’s happiness you would want to be informed of. I’d hate to believe that I am the only one invested in what brings Piper happiness. And since it is the season of giving,” I say, spreading my hands out just as the server arrives.

“Order whatever you want; it’s on me,” I say when they hesitate to order.

“Due to present company, I don’t have much of an appetite,” Mrs. Chambers says, rolling her eyes.

---